Propellor Time
Robyn Hitchcock · 2010
40 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock
A whimsical blend of melodic storytelling and eclectic instrumentation reflecting both introspection and surrealism.
Top tracks — play these first
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Star of Venus — This opening track sets the tone with its lush arrangements and whimsical lyrics, immediately drawing listeners into Hitchcock's unique sonic universe.
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Ordinary Millionaire — The song cleverly juxtaposes mundane experiences with grand aspirations, reflecting Hitchcock's ability to weave social commentary into accessible pop music.
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Propellor Time — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of time and existence with rich imagery and evocative storytelling that showcases Hitchcock's lyrical prowess.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features eclectic songwriting and whimsical storytelling, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and layered instrumentation, while the subsequent tracks shift to more introspective themes and slower rhythms.
- The lyrics often employ surreal imagery and clever wordplay, inviting listeners to engage with the storytelling on multiple levels.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- whimsical storytelling with surreal imagery
- steady mid-tempo for relaxed listening
- playful absurdity in lyrical themes
- introspective moments with melodic charm
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of high-energy tracks
- prefer straightforward lyrical narratives
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By 2010, Robyn Hitchcock had established himself as a seasoned artist with a prolific career spanning over three decades. 'Propellor Time' arrived as his first studio album in five years, following the release of 'Olé! Tarantula' in 2006, marking a return to form that showcased his signature blend of wit and introspection.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Soft Boys· They Might Be Giants· Squeeze
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Star of Venus 4:21
- 2 The Afterlight 3:50
- 3 Luckiness 3:12
- 4 Ordinary Millionaire 3:51
- 5 John in the Air 2:56
- 6 Propellor Time 5:13
- 7 Primitive 3:42
- 8 Sickie Boy 3:58
- 9 Born on the Wind 5:14
- 10 Evolove 3:58
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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