Though the hints of XTC's incipient switch from a more 'urban' to 'rural' setting and sound in their songs had been present before Mummer, it was that album's "Love on a Farmboy's Wages" which really showed that the group had new areas of inspiration to work with. As a folk-pop delight, calling to mind that period of English rock music where Bert Jantsch and Nick Drake had as much influence as Lennon and McCartney, the song can't be beat -- Dave Gregory's intricate guitar work is a delight, while Andy Partridge's wistful lyric gets a lovely, winning delivery. The use of low, almost muffled percussion further helps to set the mood, while the song itself remains an XTC composition through and through -- almost dripping with catchy hooks, possessed of a sudden mid-song break introducing a new melody, and practically shimmering throughout with merry energy. Few songs so readily capture the feel of a drowsy, beautiful summer day in the Home Counties. -- Ned Raggett (allmusic.com)

Tracks 2, 3, and 4 recorded live at Hammersmith Odeon, May 1981