Robyn Hitchcock’s ‘The Man Upstairs’

The cover is a skeleton in a hat, sitting at a desk looking upward.

10 songs, 38 minutes. A lean release. Instrumented with some strings. Primarily Robyn singing, with his typical poetic writing sung over what sounds like an acoustic guitar.

The joy when listening to Robyn Hitchcock albums are following his meandering and masterful lyrics. This album does not disappoint in that regard.

Robyn used to be in The Soft Boys, a rock and roll outfit back in the 70s.

Robyn is the quintessential “old rocker”. He may sound soft and dare I say secure? But he’s known for biting wit and a dark sense of humor.

The album is a pleasant listen. Perfect for a coffee shop. Or a quiet day in.

Sometimes Dylan-esque. Other times acoustic Soft Boys. Always Robyn Hitchcock.

I think he relies on a certain cult of personality to some degree. I think he’s aware of that. Accepting of it. I imagine you’d have to be after a career of performing.

I’d call this album a pleasant diversion. If you need some downtime, this’s your soundtrack to relaxing.

Jangle rock and 60’s tinged folk, played by a guy who lived it. Witty well crafted lyrics leading story driven songs. Soft production, light arrangements, mellow gritty vibe. 

[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52DUrv1gCUw[/youtube]

5/5

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