More New Andy Partridge That Isn't XTC

 

 

A new 6 track E.P. quietly dropped recently titled "Queen Of The Planet Wow!: The Songs Of Andy Partridge & Chris Braide." It's wonderful. For those of us wanting to hear more Andy on the recent collaboration with Steve Conte, only to be met with some disappointment, at least with the first two songs, these six tracks will do the trick. 

Chris Braide is new to me. He is a British producer and songwriter, with a somewhat impressive resume, if you like pop stars like Sia, Selena Gomez, Elle King and David Guetta. I was told by a friend that he co-wrote "Untouchable," the Glenn Tilbrook track that was yesterday's Song Of The Day and a fantastic bit of Squeeze-like pop. "Queen Of The Planet Wow" is oozing with Partridge-isms. Melodies, phrasing, and harmonies all will remind you of post-"Skylarking" XTC. Partridge himself sings backup and plays lead guitar throughout, and this e.p. has some truly wonderful soloing that at times felt reminiscent of the great Bill Nelson.

There are only two songs featured on YouTube and the other is the least representative of what you'll hear on the record, so I chose not to post it. You can go find it if you're curious. But trust me, the whole E.P. is the closest thing you'll hear to new XTC music, save the unlikely reunion or proper Andy solo album.