XTC: This is Pop

XTC: This is Pop is a dynamic, engaging, and comprehensive music documentary released in 2017, featuring celebrated British band XTC. This brilliantly constructed documentary brings together a multitude of elements - interviews, classic music footage, animated graphics - to create an immersive chronicle of one of the most influential bands in the history of pop music.

The film goes through the ups and downs of the band’s more than 40 years of existence, from their formation up until their dissolution. It features interviews with major band members including Barry Andrews, Clem Burke, and Terry Chambers, providing a deeper, first-hand insight into the workings and journey of the band.

XTC: This is Pop transports its viewers back to the vibrant world of late 20th-century pop music, with the band XTC right at the crux of it all. The members of XTC, including guitarist and main songwriter Andy Partridge, bassist Colin Moulding, keyboardist Barry Andrews, and drummer Terry Chambers, each provide unique perspectives on their shared history, adding real depth to this exploration of the band's journey.

The film provides a remarkable exploration of the band's unique and distinctive style, which defied the regular tropes of pop music. XTC was seen as a breath of fresh air in the pop genre, blending rock and new wave styles with intelligent lyrics and intricate melodies. Their eclectic music ranges from punk to ska to psychedelic to new wave, earning the band a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

This documentary rightly celebrates the band's innovative approach to music and their significant influence on the music industry. The film takes viewers on an intimate journey, bringing out the highs and lows that shaped the band, their music, and their enduring legacy. The struggles, triumphs, inter-band dynamics, musical innovation - all are covered in a sensitive, engaging manner that will enchant viewers whether they're long-time fans or new to the band's music.

Another exceptional aspect of the documentary is the interviews with a host of music stars and industry figures that were contemporaries or admirers of XTC, including Stewart Copeland of the Police, Clem Burke of Blondie, and many others. They provide their insights on the band’s influence, its unique place in the music industry, and the impact they had on their own music. This further links the personal history of XTC with the broader context of pop music evolution and the influence of the band beyond just their direct fan base.

The filmmakers also delve into the psychological complexities of the band, most notably Andy Partridge's crippling stage fright. They beautifully showcase this crippling anxiety that ultimately led to the band's stoppage of live performances. The film portrays this key moment in the band's journey with delicacy and empathy, charting the band's courageous decision to continue to make music in the studio while abstaining from live performances.

Adding to the rich narrative are amazing archive footage and the band's music videos. From unseen backstage footage to their iconic music videos, these visual features are wonderfully woven into the narrative. The creators effectively employ animated graphics and classic music footage to enhance the interviews and keep the visual interest alive throughout the documentary.

XTC: This is Pop is not just a film for fans of XTC or music enthusiasts. It's an engaging and emotionally resonant story of a band that faced its fair share of ups and downs, but whose love for music and unique musical style made it an unforgettable influence on the world of pop music. XTC's story is filled with adversity, innovation, and resilience - a powerful tale that transcends music and speaks to the human spirit.

Whether you’re an XTC die-hard fan or someone unfamiliar with the band's music, the film is sure to connect with you and give you a great music history lesson. For long-time admirers, it is a thorough dive into the band's history, and for new listeners, it serves as a perfect introduction to this incredibly influential band.

With XTC: This is Pop, strap in for a turbo-charged ride through an exceptional band’s journey, past the whirlwinds of fame, stage fright, and the tough, often brutal music industry, triggering a roller coaster of emotions that is as exciting as it is insightful.