Boo Hewerdine
Album: Amazing Robot
Label: Reveal
Tracks: 2
Website: http://www.boohewerdine.net

With his new single, available as a limited edition CD or in the usual download format, Boo Hewerdine is certainly tapping into a certain nostalgic niche in the market.

Being one of those who actually remembers the article in question, if memory serves correct and not wanting to nit pick it was actually called Magic Robot (although allowing for artistic license, it may not quite scan as well), the significant memory is the awe and wonder at the way in which the robot would always have the correct response to sets of questions on sheets placed over its game board. All very hi-tec for the sixties but very much a sign of the time and what Boo has called "the certainties of childhood and how they disappear". Complimenting his usual acoustic guitar with understated sequencing sounds and a wistful vocal of "spin for me" in the outro, it's likely to have fans of a certain age scanning the online marketplaces for a dose of retrospective warmth.

'Drinking Alone' is the second track, and seeing as we're in nostalgic mode, call it a b-side if you like. The quirky shuffling track is dedicated to those who "have sat up at two in the morning having just one more." A very melancholic vibe and typical of the sort of easy and unpretentious songwriting and arrangement that is characteristic of Boo Hewerdine.

Recorded as a one man band with some help from Chris Pepper on drums and Gustaf Ljunggren on clarinet, these are the first tracks which will be on the forthcoming album (due in October) entitled 'My Name In The Brackets'. Alluding to the fact that he's perhaps best known for his songwriting skills and their interpretation by others, he's been premiering the song in his recent Spring tour. Having caught the show at the start of May, it's strongly recommended that when Boo is back on the road around album release time in November to get out and thee a maestro at work and appreciate an expert in his craft.

Mike Ainscoe