"Tonight"

One of the simplest heartfelt teenage love songs ever: "Tonight we're just a boy and girl/The only people in the world". Takes an old man like Nick Lowe to get back to basics.

"Biko"

The segue from "Nkosi Sikelele Africa" into the intro is totally compelling. The threat of the fuzzed guitar, the inevitability of the funeral drumbeat. And the lyrics: so simple, so effective. It's fascinating to listen to the various ways in which politically-active artists demonstrate their commitment: listen to this, and then play Little Steven's "Sun City". Peter Gabriel doesn't need to sloganise; he lets the images do the talking, while Little Steven has to keep reminding us that he "ain't gonna play Sun City". Which works better?

"Whole Wide World"

Despair, hope and tuneful tunelessness. Wreckless Eric can't sing, yet he's a huge star in France. Go figure. A love song for closing time.

"Effloresce and Deliquesce"

One of the most atmospheric productions you're likely to hear: fantastic echoed guitars, a hurry-up beat, coupled to sharp, observant lyrics. I still don't know what either "effloresce" or "deliquesce" mean, but it's one of those tempestuous break-up/make-up-in-bed songs. So I'm guessing there's "imagery" involved. I'll admit that the album cover hooked me as well.

"Play that Funky Music"

Nastiest bass line. Ever.

"Homburg"

Procol Harum should be better known for this song rather than "Whiter Shade of Pale". Lyrics are just as totally bonkers, the mood is the same, beautiful keyboards and organ. Why is it that most art-pop 60s songs resembled really bad art films or "Alice in Wonderland" rip-offs? And what's the deal with trouser cuffs?