With their allusions to town and country, chalkhills and steam trains, XTC have deep Swindon roots. But how well do their references travel? 

 

In the first of two episodes exploring XTC's Wiltshire worldview, we look at the influence of British nursery rhymes on songs ranging from Ladybird to We're All Light, Ballet for a Rainy Day and Brainiac's Daughter. 

 

Sharing their UK expertise are Belinda Blanchard and Peter Mills, while our American cousins Sandy Leffew and Ami Parkerson talk about British invasions and exotic accents. Mark Fisher is the host.

 

The fabulous musical soundtrack comes courtesy of Sarah Palmer and Lotte Fisher, who also provides the episode illustration.

 

Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com 

 

If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher

 

Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.