Critics have struggled to categorise Neil Hannon’s music; Baroque Pop, Chamber Pop, Britpop, Europop. Perhaps it might be simpler to classify it as classy literate pop. This is witty, urbane, and hugely enjoyable on many levels. For over 30 years and 12 studio albums, Neil Hannon has produced a treasure trove of wonderfully melodic musings on modern life and relationships.
In truth, 24 tracks across two CDs were never going to adequately cover the full range and musical diversity of his music, and there are glaring omissions – no ‘Frog Princess’, no ‘Gin Soaked Boy’, no room for the incredibly catchy ‘Queue Jumper’ from the last studio album, ‘Office Politics’. What we are treated to is a veritable feast of musical styles, mini soap operas, Wilde-like witticisms in a Noel Coward style, relationships ruminations, and above all, quality music.
Classic singles ‘Something for the Weekend’ and ‘National Express’ sit easily alongside newer classics such as the poignant and funny ‘Norman and Norma’. The lyrics are sharp and funny and distinctly Neil Hannon. Perhaps ‘Hannaonesque’ might find its way into the dictionary.
Few writers would rhyme “risk it” and “biscuits”. Fewer still would be able to get away with:
Miniskirts were the style when she danced down the aisle back in ’63. But it’s hard to get by when your arse is the size of a small country.
Hannon manages to go from pathos to bathos in a single stanza, but unlike others, it is entirely intentional.
Rightly lauded for his perceptive lyrics, this sometimes comes at a cost, as to masking what a fine and versatile vocalist Hanson is. From the restrained commentary of ‘A Lady of a Certain Age’ to the mysterious menace of ‘Something for the Weekend’ to the unbridled joy and mischief of ‘National Express’, Neil builds layers on the songs, growing into the characters and their emotions at each turn.
‘Everybody Knows’ remains a high bar that few could emulate, ‘Songs of Love’ takes the Father Ted theme to new heights. ‘At The Indie Disco’ is great fun. So much to choose from.
The new song, ‘The Best Mistakes’, is a life-affirming look back at one’s past, warts and all:
I thumb the dogged pages of my paperback life, reread confusing passages that never worked out right. All the muddles and miscommunications that landed me here. All the fights and late-night conversations, all the wasted tears. Well, I have made my fair share of mistakes. I’m not an angel, but then again I’m no fake and I don’t regret a single day. Those were the best mistakes I’ve ever made.
It’s classic Hannon and sits easily alongside his finest. And he has some very fine, fine tunes.
For a few quid extra, I would advise you to buy the 3 disc edition with the additional bonus album featuring songs that just didn’t fit in the themes of certain albums, and added little gems. Many bands would be delighted to release some of these songs as singles, let alone bonus tracks, such is the depth of quality on display here.
‘Charmed Life’ is a great look back at the band’s past catalogue to date, and while omitting some better-known songs, it allows room for some deeper cuts and a better understanding of the breadth and diversity of Neil Hannon’s output.
A few ‘Best Mistakes’ but all quality cuts. We’re looking forward to the next chapters in Neil’s charmed life.