The Boston Herald
August 20, 1999
Robyn Hitchcock's Revelatory Jewels Is A Real Gem
Robyn Hitchcock
Jewels For Sophia (Warner Bros.)
***½
by Peter Chandler
Robyn Hitchcock has a workaholic approach to being an eccentric, and 18 years in, on his 14th album, is not where you'd expect a revelatory effort -- but here's one, anyway.
Jewels For Sophia is effortless and engaging, Hitchcock's best set of songs in ages performed with added precision and panache -- especially on the vocals. Listen to how he rips into "Viva Sea-Tac", a born radio smash with a Lennon-via-Bowie bite (and backup from Peter Buck and the Young Fresh Fellows).
On the better half of a remarkably consistent CD, Jon Brion (Aimee Mann, Rufus Wainwright) proves to be an ideal producer, providing playfulness plus depth and detail.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE