Robyn Hitchcock and the Venus 3- Goodnight Oslo

ARTIST: Robyn Hitchcock and the Venus 3

ALBUM: Goodnight Oslo

LABEL: Yep Roc Records

REVIEWER: Matthew J.

DATE: 12-13-09

Robyn Hitchcock's second studio album with his current band (which also features Peter Buck of R.E.M., former Ministry drummer Bill Rieflin, and Scott McCaughey of Yong Fresh Fellows) leans toward the more melancholy side of things, but fans of the songwriter's more whimsical work will be able to bounce along with "Up to Our Nex" or the bluesy "What You Is," which comes off like Credence Clearwater Revival had they been imitating The Beatles in their psychedelic period instead of playing faux-Louisiana swamp rock, or mellow out to "TLC," a dreamy ode to sedatives. "Saturday Groovers" is also a lighter number, its rich lyrical arrangements and soulful backing chorus an ode to early '60s pop music. The best stuff on this album, though, showcases Hitchcock's more serious side. "I'm Falling" is a tender jangling pop number that highlights Buck's guitar style, "Sixteen Years" layers crystalline minor-key guitars over stony vocals, and "Hurry for the Sky" features stark strums and understated country twang for a folksy vibe that will be familiar to fans of Hitchcock's album with Gillian Welch and David Rawlings. As a bonus, fans who order the first edition of this release from Yep Roc Records will also receive a bonus CD single of "Up to Our Nex," which features two excellent exclusive tracks: the irrepressible rocker "I Just Wanna Be Loved" and the staccato piano and plucked strings ballad "Nothing Makes Me Cry." All in all, another solid album from a prolific songwriter and his incredibly talented backing band.

Visit Hitchcock and friends at www.robynhitchcock.com.