Wrapped in Grey

XTC

About Wrapped in Grey

"Wrapped in Grey" is a song written by Andy Partridge of XTC, released on their 1992 album Nonsuch. It was to be issued as the third single from the album, but its initial pressings were withdrawn by Virgin Records for an unknown reason. This was a stimulus for the band to go on "strike" against the label for a few years until their contracts were terminated.


Year:
1996
3:46
92 
#2

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Some folks see the world as a stone
Concrete daubed in dull monotone
Your heart is the big box of paints
And others, the canvas we're dealt
Your heart is the big box of paints
How colored the flowers all smelled
As they huddled there, in petaled prayer
They told me this, as I knelt there

Awaken you dreamers
Adrift in your beds
Balloons and streamers
Decorate the inside of your heads
Please let some out
Do it today
But don't let the loveless ones sell you
A world wrapped in grey

Some folks pull this life like a weight
Drab and dragging dreams made of slate
Your heart is the big box of paints
And others, the canvas we're dealt
Your heart is the big box of paints
Just think how the old masters felt, they call

Awaken you dreamers
Asleep at your desks
Parrots and lemurs
Populate your unconscious grotesques
Please let some out
Do it today
But don't let the loveless ones sell you
A world wrapped in grey

And in the very least you can
Stand up naked and
Grin

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XTC

XTC was a New Wave band from Swindon, England, active between 1977 and 2005. The band enjoyed some chart success, including the UK and Canadian hits "Making Plans for Nigel" (1979) and "Senses Working Overtime" (1982), but are perhaps even better known for their long-standing critical (rather than commercial) success. more »

1 fan

Written by: ANDY PARTRIDGE

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Genre Classification
"Wrapped in Grey" by XTC belongs to the alternative and new wave rock music genre. It is known for its complex melodies and harmonies that distinguish it from mainstream rock.
Album History
The song is part of the band's 1992 double album, "Nonsuch". This album was the band's 12th studio album and marked a return to the more lush, intricate sound of their earlier albums.
Band Controversy
"Wrapped In Grey" was supposed to be the third single off the "Nonsuch" album but was abruptly withdrawn by Virgin Records. This event caused much tension and eventually led the band to go on strike against the label.
Musical Composition
The song is hailed as one of XTC's most beatiful compositions, showcasing their mastery over orchestral pop.
Creative Lyrics
The lyrics of "Wrapped in Grey" implores listeners to express their feelings rather than suppressing them, capturing the band's knack for profound storytelling.
Rare Release
Although it was withdrawn as a single, roughly 5,000 copies of the song were prematurely distributed in the UK, making it a treasured find for XTC fans and record collectors.
Song Influences
"Wrapped in Grey"'s musical style and lyricism are reminiscent of '60s baroque pop and psychedelia, featuring lush orchestration and harmonies.
Personal Reviews
The song, though not often played, has had a positive review amongst fans, being referred to as one of XTC's most touching and heartwarming songs.
Strike Result
XTC's strike resulted in a seven-year pause in their recording career. However, the dispute resulted in the band being released from their contract with Virgin Records in 1998, which allowed them to launch their private label, Idea Records.
Critical Acclaim
Despite the controversies surrounding it, "Wrapped in Grey" has often received critical acclaim. It showcases the band's ability to create intricate, meaningful music and is often cited as a standout track from the "Nonsuch" album.
Unofficial Releases
Due to its abrupt withdrawal and limited initial release, "Wrapped in Grey" has featured in several bootleg releases and unofficial versions are widely available on the internet.

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