XTC - This World Over (Virgin)

AM: The British public chose in their infinite ignorance not to make the last one a hit, which was a belter, and given the state of the world, I see no reason why this one should be a hit. And I can understand more why this one wouldn't. I adored 'All You Pretty Girls'. PH: I really like this one, actually. AM: I like that, but it sounds more like an album track. PH: As a song, which is basically what we're reviewing, it's very very good. (Paul & Andy of OMD, Record Mirror, November 3, 1984)

Mention XTC in mixed company and no doubt you'll be regaled with a chorus of "Making Plans For Nigel", their biggest hit. Five years later, they're still slogging away getting more misses than hits. "This World Over" is a sad, regret-filled postcard of a song from a post-nuclear holocaust world. It's haunting and chilling and might finally end those choruses of 'Nigel'. (Adrian Tierney-Jones, No 1, November 10, 1984)

Anti-war holler, wistful and winsome. XTC have stepped back from music industry machinations and are making better records. (Morrissey, Smash Hits, October 24, 1984)

Ultravox - Love's Great Adventure (Chrysalis)

Yes, but where's the revolution? Certainly, they play and sing masterfully, but Ultravox have become total industry, and their big band glossiness seems like a shameful concession to all the wrong values. Will they ever revolt? (Morrissey, Smash Hits, October 25, 1984)

"Love's Great Adventure" sees Ultravox finally justifying all the (largely unfair) criticism that's been thrown at them in the past. You know - how ALL their songs sound the same. Well they didn't, but they do now. I'm disappointed in you lads. (Eleanor Levy, Record Mirror, October 13, 1984)

It's not another "Vienna", but nevertheless good - haunting Ultravox keyboards soaring above what sounds like the insidious throbbing of a high-pitched outboard motor and fronted by the powerful voice of Midge Ure. Serious prophecy. In many years' time, Midge will be the British Sinatra - only more hip! The Mills & Boon title "Love's Great Adventure" will help sell a few to Barbara Cartland fans. (Mike Read, Smash Hits, October 11, 1984)