Peter Hammill – In A Foreign Town / Out Of Water 2023 (Esoteric/Cherry Red, 2023)
Peter Hammill’s In A Foreign Town / Out Of Water 2023, is a 2CD extravaganza that’s not just a mere revisit, but a powerful reimagining of two iconic albums that shaped the musical landscape in 1988 and 1990.
The set is a superb reworking that transcends the boundaries of time, breathing new life into the classic solo albums In a Foreign Town and Out of Water. Released on November 24, 2024, this recreation is not just an ordinary stroll down memory lane; it’s a bold leap into the future of Hammill’s artistic expression. Although the music is certainly not as progressive as Hammill’s Van der Graaf Generator albums, Peter Hammill is a captivating songwriter and iconic vocalist that keeps the listener engaged.
Back in 1988, In a Foreign Town made waves with its politically charged content, riding the waves of MIDI technology, and featuring the talent of violinist Stuart Gordon. Fast-forward to 1990, and Out of Water marked a shift in direction, embracing a more band-oriented approach, pointing to Hammill’s growing confidence in mastering studio technology.
Sure, over the years, opinions on the original versions have been a mixed bag, with some fans lauding the material but cringing at the 1980s production vibes. But fear not! Peter Hammill has stepped back into the studio, navigating the labyrinth of rights uncertainty surrounding the originals. The result? A breathtaking rework that not only preserves the essence of the originals but catapults them into a new era.
Track Listing:
Disc One
In a Foreign Town (2023)
1 Hemlock
2 Invisible Ink
3 Sci-Finance (Revisited)
4 This Book
5 Time to Burn
6 Auto
7 Vote Brand X
8 Sun City Nightlife
9 The Play’s the Thing
10 Under Cover Names
11 Smile
12 Time to Burn (instrumental)
Disc Two
Out of Water (2023)
1 Evidently Goldfish
2 Not the Man
3 No Moon in the Water
4 Our Oyster
5 Something About Ysabel’s Dance
6 Green Fingers
7 On the Surface
8 A Way Out
I’m interested…..