Thursday, February 1, 2018

This Is Pop

As the shopping list grows, expect brief mentions of important new releases the next few posts. On this, the 25th anniversary of Martin Newell's album 'The Greatest Living Englishman', Captured Tracks is celebrating with a special vinyl reissue that includes a 10-page booklet with updated liner notes by Newell himself. If you only know Newell from his brilliant lo-fi recordings under the moniker Cleaners From Venus, this gorgeous piece of pop immaculately produced by Andy Partridge will come as quite a surprise. In my humble opinion, the name Newell should be included with the likes of English icons Hitchcock, Davies, McCartney and, yes, Partridge. Preorder 'The Greatest Living Englishman' for a Feb. 23 release.

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7 comments:

C said...

Brian, I never cease to be amazed at the names you mention which somehow I don't imagine could possible have crossed over to the Atlantic! Martin Newell is something of a regional character here, lives not far away (if still at same place) but I just didn't imagine I'd ever be reading about him via a blogger in Seattle! Years ago (around about '78/'79) he used to turn up quite regularly at my local venue when he fronted the band Gypp, so saw him many times then, he was something of an eccentric even then! (I think The Swede may also remember that band?) He also gets quite a lot of mention in the book which I will forever be recommending to anyone and everyone with a love of records - 'Lost In Music' by Giles Smith. Have you read it? If not, I'm sure you'd really enjoy it.
Anyway, wow.

February 1, 2018 at 2:22 PM
Brian said...

C, Do you have Gypp's 7" "Yaah"? Going for close to $100 these days. Newell's an eccentric one for sure. Can you imagine him with Partridge in the same room? Making me smile just thinking about it. Partridge's mark is all over this one, including some great guitar on Build a House. I don't know that book you mention but will seek it out. I do know Newell from a book though... Unknown Legends of Rock 'n' Roll by Richie Unterberger. Thanks for writing. I find your comments far more interesting than my posts.

February 1, 2018 at 4:03 PM
The Swede said...

I'll see C's 'wow' and raise you a 'bloody hell!' Yes, I saw Gypp once or twice in Ipswich and, I think, may have even seen an incarnation of Cleaners From Venus...or was it Martin Newell solo....I honestly can't remember now. A good mate of mine is also a good mate of Martins and provided backing vocals on his 2002 LP 'Radio Autumn Attic'.
I'll second C's recommendation of 'Lost in Music' - it's absolutely essential.

February 1, 2018 at 4:17 PM
Matt said...

A third recommendation for 'Lost in Music' just reread it and its great, for all fans of Martin Newell, Nik Kershaw and struggling musicians.

February 2, 2018 at 3:03 PM
Brian said...

Ordered the book last night.

February 2, 2018 at 4:03 PM
C said...

Great! I've no doubt you'll love it!

February 2, 2018 at 5:42 PM
Anonymous said...

I'll add to the chorus re lost in music - think you'll love it Brian

February 8, 2018 at 4:21 AM

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