Robyn Hitchcock is set to release a new album titled 1967: Vacations In The Past through Tiny Ghost Records, with the official drop scheduled for September 13, 2024. This album serves as both a reflective homage and a musical companion to his recently published memoir, 1967: How I Got There And Why I Never Left. With a career spanning several decades, Hitchcock is recognized for his distinctive approach to post-psychedelic surrealism and has been a considerable influence in the indie music scene.
The forthcoming album features acoustic covers of iconic songs from 1967, a pivotal year in Hitchcock's artistic development. The tracklist includes reimagined versions of classics like Procol Harum's "Whiter Shade of Pale," Jimi Hendrix's "Burning Of The Midnight Lamp," and The Kinks’ "Waterloo Sunset," among others. Hitchcock aimed to present these covers stripped of their elaborate 1967 production, bringing them back to their seemingly raw origins.
On the album, he collaborates with former bandmates and friends such as Kimberley Rew and Kelley Stoltz, who enrich the sound with elements like sitar. The album opens with a darker, acoustic rendition of "Whiter Shade of Pale," and culminates in a unique cover of The Beatles' "A Day in the Life," showcasing Hitchcock’s artistic vision.
Alongside the album, Robyn Hitchcock will embark on a UK tour to promote the release. The tour will kick off on August 30, 2024, launching with shows in venues including Hebden Bridge's Trades Club and concluding on September 14 at London’s Earth Theatre. Tickets for the tour are available now for purchase.
For more details on the album and to see the complete list of tour dates, you can visit Tiny Ghost Records and Hitchcock's official website. Pre-orders for 1967: Vacations In The Past can be made here.