Robyn Hitchcock "Tromsø, Kaptein" 2011

This one is completely under the radar (originally released only in Norway) so many fans haven't even heard it. It's a shame because this one holds up at least as well as most of his catalog. It is upbeat folk rock in the vein of Goodnight Oslo and Love from London. Cellos add to the sound on a few tracks. Savannah and Erasing Your Life are among the many keepers. Norwegian speakers may appreciate closer Gotnatt Oslo. - Jeff Yutzler
Physical format-wise, Tromsø, Kaptein released in 2011 on Norwegian label Hype City Records is available from Discogs or ebay on CD or vinyl for a princely sum. However, it's worth the investment because it's undoubtedly one of Hitchcock's late period gems. In case you're wondering the album's title refers to the city of Tromsø in northern Norway. Eight of the ten songs here are new while two are remakes. The first is "Godnatt Oslo," a Norwegian language version of "Goodnight Oslo." The second is a gorgeous, cello-heavy take on "Raining Twilight Coast" that features heavenly female backing vocals courtesy of Jennifer Macro and Lucy Parnell. It simply transcends the original that appeared on Eye from 1990. Other highlights here include the sunny and upbeat "Light Blue Afternoon," the reflective "Old Man Weather," and the effortlessly catchy "Dismal City" with the memorable lyric "Too much brightness is a blight/Twilight's where I feel alright." - George Zandona
trax:
01 Light Blue Afternoon 02 Raining Twilight Coast 03 Savannah 04 Dismal City 05 Old Man Weather 06 Erasing Your Life 07 August In Hammersmith 08 Everything About You 09 The Abyss 10 Godnatt Oslo