Robyn Hitchcock & The Venus 3 — Ole! Tarantula

Robyn Hitchcock has been one of the most prolific yet enigmatic artists of the past 30 years, and alternative pop fans wouldn't have it any other way. On this record he's joined by R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck and, among others, touring members Scott McCaughey and Bill Rieflin, who are also part of The Minus 5. Openers "Adventure Rocket Ship" and "Underground Sun" lead you to believe that this will be a full-on psychedelic pop record, but that's dispelled by the hint of saxophone on "Museum Of Sex" and the jaunty piano-based melody on "Belltown Ramble." Album closer "N.Y. Doll" is written from the perspective of the late New York Dolls bassist, Arthur "Killer" Kane. The contributors on Ole! Tarantula might get it more attention than most of Hitchcock's more recent albums, and deservedly so. Don't be afraid of this spider.

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