In a recent announcement, Robyn Hitchcock, the renowned English musician and former Soft Boys leader, revealed a musical project as a companion to his newly released memoir, 1967: How I Got There and Why I Never Left, entitled 1967: Vacations In The Past.
1967: Vacations In The Past is an acoustic covers album where Hitchcock revisits and interprets songs from and inspired by the year 1967. Hitchcock shared his excitement about the lead single, “Itchycoo Park,” stating, “Finally, after 45 years of playing together, my old pal Kimberley Rew and I strum two acoustic guitars on this version of ‘Itchycoo Park.’”
Reflecting on his approach, Hitchcock acknowledged the contrast with his Soft Boys days, mentioning, “Given how deafening the pair of us were in the Soft Boys, this is quaint and merciful.”
He further described his love for performing these vintage 1967 compositions, highlighting how timeless songs encapsulate moments in history. While the original recordings were heavily produced, Hitchcock’s versions on this album lean towards simplistic renditions on acoustic guitars with subtle effects to capture the essence of the era.
Discussing the song “Itchycoo Park,” originally by Steve Marriott and Ronnie Lane of the Small Faces, Hitchcock noted its typical theme of drug-related experiences during that period.
Hitchcock also shared insights about the LP:
He delved into his personal connection with 1967, highlighting it as a transitional phase from childhood to adulthood. The songs from that era symbolized a mix of vivid colors and melancholy, mirroring his own journey through hormonal changes and nostalgia. He pondered whether that year marked a peak in his life before the complexities of adulthood set in.
Referencing iconic songs like “Waterloo Sunset” and “Burning Of The Midnight Lamp,” Hitchcock painted a poetic picture of yearning for the past and the transformative power of music during a period of rapid societal change and self-discovery.
He encapsulated the essence of 1967 as a luminous memory that continues to inspire and shape him, even as he navigates the challenges of life’s inevitable transitions.
1967: Vacations In The Past was co-produced by Hitchcock and Charlie Francis, known for his work with respected artists such as R.E.M. and The High Llamas. The album includes covers of tracks originally by Jimi Hendrix, Traffic, the Move, and more. The release date for 1967: Vacations In The Past is set for 9/13 through Tiny Ghost Records.
TRACKLIST:
01 “A Whiter Shade Of Pale”
02 “Itchycoo Park”
03 “Burning Of The Midnight Lamp”
04 “I Can Hear The Grass Grow”
05 “San Francisco (Flowers In Your Hair)”
06 “Waterloo Sunset”
07 “See Emily Play”
08 “My White Bicycle”
09 “No Face, No Name, No Number”
10 “Way Back In The 1960s”
11 “Vacations In The Past”
12 “A Day In The Life”
Don’t miss the release of 1967: Vacations In The Past for a nostalgic musical journey through the iconic year of 1967.
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