Richard Thompson – 'Hippies, Thugs and Heroes' review: an album full of villains
The British folk-rock guitarist's 20th solo album is out on October 16. Louder Than War awards it 4.5 out of 5 and calls it another modern classic.
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Single video: YouTube · New West Records · youtube.com
Single: Cocaine Walking, Booze Talking
Richard Thompson, co-founder of Fairport Convention and one of British folk rock's defining guitarists, releases his 20th solo album 'Hippies, Thugs and Heroes' on New West Records on October 16. The twelve songs were recorded at Hobosound Studio in Weehawken, New Jersey, near his home, with Thompson producing alongside James Frazee. The band recorded live, usually in two to four takes. Lead single 'Cocaine Walking, Booze Talking' came out at the end of July.
British magazine Louder Than War gives it 4.5 out of 5 and sees it continuing a strong run of modern classics. The songs present a whole gallery of villains and victims: from a cult follower trying to escape his guru, through hustlers and ne'er-do-wells, to the sinister blues of 'Stringer'. 'Unsung Hero' honours people who do dangerous, dirty work, pairing a folk melody with a funk groove.
Quieter moments come with 'Pipe Dreams', a duet with his wife Zara Phillips, and closer 'Siren', just voice and acoustic guitar. Long-time fans will love the album, the review says – but it also works well as a starting point for newcomers.