Echo and the Bunnymen - Never Stop (Korova)

From the joyous, jagged intro to the juddering close, a hit and no mistake. With a bit of cello, heartfelt vocals, some disco percussion, a name-check for Russian writer Maxim Gorky and what sounds like someone tapping out a tune on the ribs of a skeleton, this is probably the best Bunnymen single ever. Easier to dance to than philosophize about, which is all well and good. Is this what Mac meant about them finding their "lighter side"? Whatever, sheer bliss. (Dave Rimmer, Smash Hits, July 7, 1983)

A more direct and, dare I say it, safer Bunnymen. They have established a bridgehead in the top 20, so one can forgive them for marking time. This record is distinguished by Mr McCulloch's strong vocal; some lovely keyboard work and absolutely no references to obscure novelists. (Jim Reid, Record Mirror, July 9, 1983)

No don't, Mac. The truest of all rock groups continue their tradition of great singles. 'Never Stop' grabs you by the throat and doesn't put you down until you're pulsing with the feverish energy that's in all their recordings. This is going to make Top Of The Pops well worth watching. What will Mac do this time-strip off totally or just smash up the studio altogether? Don't stop watching! (Paul Bursche, No 1, July 9, 1983)