Robert Wyatt
ComicOpera
Domino Records 2007

Robert Wyatt has long been championed by critics but largely ignored by the record-buying public. Domino Records, after raking in the big cash with success of the stolid indie rock of such luminaries as the Arctic Monkeys and Franz Ferdinand have fortunately invested in one of Britain’s most remarkable and important musicians. This month Wyatt has released his 12th solo album, Comicopera. There are, fortunately, no full-blown operatic tracks on this album, but it is divided into three Acts: "Lost In Noise," "The Here And The Now," and "Away With The Fairies" and with 16 tracks, does go on for quite a long time like most operas do. In a likeable way nothing seems quite finished or pre-planned. It’s a haphazard affair with Wyatt’s unique vocals at the centre. They are at once, fragile, gruff and moving, his voice propels the broad narrative sweep of the album through the stylistic changes in the different acts, holding the album together. The first act is a love story that begins and ends in tears, the second explores war amongst other things, and the third, goes absolutely crazy musically with Latin and Cuban rhythms, is sung largely in Spanish, and is surprisingly beautiful and moving. The album, which features collaborations with Paul Weller and Brian Eno, is arguably one of this years best albums, however it is a difficult listen. The quality of the album is at times questionable, but every so often there are truly fantastic songs. 'Just As You Are' in particular features a lovely cornet solo from Wyatt against some really world-weary lyrics, an acceptance of the failures and deception of love. Comicopera is an essential album of 2007, with depth and emotion and a song writer who isn’t afraid of pushing musical and lyrical boundaries.