Robb Johnson and the Irregulars - Eurotipia

  by Steve Kinrade

published: 17 / 3 / 2020

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Surely, it can’t be a coincidence that Robb Johnson’s latest musical musings was released prior to Boris’ greatest day, and that the theme of this collection of songs reflects its title, 'Eurotopia'? Johnson fixates on the theme of Europe, from nostalgic shining of tales; for example Paris is the setting of 'If the Night Runs Out Before the Money Runs Out', 'Tram Number 22' locates us to Prague, 'Charing Cross Station & Hungerford Bridge' is played out against a London backdrop. The song 'Stalingrad', however, marks a pivot and things start to take on a more serious note. Johnson paints the picture of a potential post-Brexit nightmare that reflects the past ideology of hate, distrust and failure. Control will be took back, just like the borders, but history tells us it will not end well, we are being “led to disaster.” Johnson also utilises the metaphor of a train rolling to destruction - again the historical overtones are only too obvious. ‘Welcome to the Museum' drills into the heart of Capitalisms failure and injustice, where Coke is sold to competing sides, “the few who made a killing, while the millions just got killed.” The lyrics and sentiments are powerful, and so is the music that accompanies it. 'Old Magicians' closes the album in such a beautiful fashion, almost like a lullaby, with such musical tenderness. 'Eurotopia' sees Robb Johnson continue at the top of his game; an accomplished songwriter and musician, who also has the honed skill of the astute observer, calling out the madness of the times we live in. Essential listening.

Track Listing:-

1 The Carnival Song
2 Once Upon A Time On The Road To Eurotopia
3 Charing Cross Station & Hungerford Bridge
4 Coincidents On The Circle Line
5 If The Night Runs Out Before The Money Runs Out
6 Tram Number 22
7 The Edelweiss Pirates
8 The Kreuzberg Sisters
9 My Last Night In Montmartre
10 Stalingrad
11 Welcome To The Museum
12 The Work Is Never Done
13 Old Magicians

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