Talking Heads - Psycho Killer (Old Grey Whistle Test, 1978)

Lumpy but thrilling live version.

Major props to Tina Weymouth whose primitive but perfectly-judged bass propels this live version of 'Psycho Killer' forwards before taking centre stage in a Krautrock jam of a coda which has to be heard.

A great Talking Heads song, of course, but where this version loses a little in terms of razor sharpness, it gains massively in terms of the interplay between the guitars and the aforementioned Can-tastic coda where the drums cut loose and David Byrne almost pops the top button on his polo shirt.

Download Talking Heads - Psycho Killer (Old Grey Whistle Test, 1978, Talking Heads mp3) (Divshare)

Japan - Suburban Berlin (Hansa, 1978)

Pioneering New Romantic pop with edgy, Cold War vibe.

Whilst being a band with a very defined visual aesthetic, Japan were musically diverse, developing through a range of styles on their way to the icy, jazz and classical-influenced sound of 'Tin Drum' that became the starting point for David Sylvian's solo career.

Back in 1978, they were resolutely glam with a strong Roxy Music influence, mixing storming pop with edgy anthems like 'Suburban Berlin'.

The song creeps along on an electric piano line, skanking guitars and bass creating an atmosphere of skulking and subterfuge before bursting into an anthemic chorus.

Download Japan 'Suburban Berlin' (Glam, Roxy, New Romantic, mp3) (Box.net)

The Rolling Stones - Miss You (Special Disco Version) (EMI, 1978)

Bandwagon-chasing pays off.

This Stones-Go-Disco hit is elongated with a prowling, lip-smacking breakdown and build-back-up. The rhythm section is taut and smooth and the feel is reminiscent of Blondie's 'Rapture (Special Disco Mix)'.

From 3'10", the track breaks down to Fender Rhodes, drums and bass. It's sleek like an oiled puma, Jagger whispering, whining and yelping like a constipated diva. It all builds back with some scathing guitar and expressive disco-popping bass and a harmonica solo.

Well syncopated.

Download  The Rolling Stones 'Miss You (Special Disco Version)' (rock-disco-interface) (Box)

Alex Chilton/Big Star - Holocaust (Live at CBGB) (1978)

Ragged, emotional live version of the This Mortal Coil-inspiring late Big Star classic.

Rough, raw and dilapidated run through what was already an emotionally bleak song. Hard to listen but testament to Alex Chilton's genius and talent.

Famously covered by This Mortal Coil of course.

Download Alex Chilton/Big Star 'Holocaust (Live at CBGB)' (alternative rock mp3) (Mediafire)