Robbie Williams has launched his 13th studio album, a spirited and nostalgic collection titled 'Britpop', marking a full-circle moment for the iconic entertainer. The release arrives just ahead of his intimate 'Long 90s' tour, where he promises to blend new material with every track from his seminal 1997 debut, 'Life Thru A Lens'.
A Delayed But Purposeful Release
Originally scheduled for October last year, the album's launch was first postponed to February to avoid clashing with Taylor Swift's 'Life Of A Showgirl', before being brought forward to its current date. This sees Williams at his most effervescent, delivering a string of songs built around loud guitars, big choruses, and a roster of notable guest appearances he calls "my heroes".
The album is framed as the record Williams wanted to make immediately after leaving Take That in 1995. It's a playful, knowing trolley-dash through pop's past, even featuring the Vienna Symphony Orchestra on certain tracks. While some may argue the Britpop wave had faded by the time Williams found solo fame with 'Angels', he tackles the genre head-on with characteristic audacity.
Star-Studded Collaborations & Personal Themes
The album artwork itself is a nod to history, featuring Williams in the red tracksuit and bleached-blond hair he sported when partying with Oasis at Glastonbury post-Take That. The collaborations are a who's who of his influences: Gaz Coombes of Supergrass makes an appearance, Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi sets the mood on the opening track 'Rocket', and Coldplay's Chris Martin contributes guitar to the dreamy ballad 'Human'.
Lyrically, Williams covers his favourite topic—himself—alongside celebrity, religion, AI, and social media. He addresses past struggles on 'It's OK Until The Drugs Stop Working', backed by orchestral arrangements reminiscent of his 1998 work. A standout is 'Morrissey', a track co-written with former bandmate Gary Barlow, which pays a witty, self-deprecating tribute to the former Smiths frontman.
Infectious Energy & Tour Details
Despite a couple of rap-orientated missteps, Williams stamps his unique personality across the album, creating an infectious comeback record. Tracks like 'Spies' offer an arena-ready ballad, while 'Pretty Face' sounds like a love letter to his wife, Ayda Field.
This release positions Williams for a potential record-breaking 16th UK chart-topping album. The campaign kicks into high gear with his 'Long 90s' tour, starting at the Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow on February 4. Fans can expect a career-spanning, nostalgic celebration designed to entertain.
Also released this week:
Courtney Marie Andrews: 'Valentine' - The Arizona singer's ninth album is a bittersweet set of country-rock songs, illuminated by her honeyed voice, serving as a perfect primer for her upcoming tour.
The Cribs: 'Selling A Vibe' - The brothers' first LP in six years sees the indie-rock stalwarts bruised but unbowed, maintaining their signature buzzsaw guitars and tight harmonies with a modern sheen from producer Patrick Wimberly.
