This review is from: Big Express (Audio CD) Every bit the equal of the classic album that followed it, The Big Express is certainly one of XTC's finest accomplishments. This remaster puts the previously issued version to shame! The sound is crisp, sharp and has none of the analog artifacts that made the previous CD sound so poor. The albums original running order has been restored with the b side single bonus tracks added at the end of the CD. The location of the b sides in the middle of the previous CD never bothered me that much as this is one of the few albums where the b sides were for the most part every bit the equal of the album tracks.

The limited edition CD version of this album resembles the original vinyl right down to the round album cover. Although not the band's most accessible work (Skylarking and Oranges & Lemons both belong in that category), BE is one of the richest XTC albums the band produced. Coming after the uneven but interesting Mummer, BE was a fine return to form.

I am a bit disappointed that no demos are included on this CD (I suppose Virgin is saving those for their boxed set coming out later this year). Regardless, the sound quality alone makes this worth paying the extra money for. Drums & Wires, Black Sea, The Big Express and Skylarking all outclass the original CD releases in terms of sound quality and packaging.