专辑简介

Chronic Empire begins where Robin Stanley’s Mad Kingdom left off, with 12 new songs that feature all the melodic charm and sonic jangle of the earlier recording but with a harder edge that takes it to a new level. The songs feature reflections on life, love and the Gods of fate, as well as several cinematic narratives seen through the eyes of some interesting characters. With an army of six and twelve string acoustic and electric guitars, the recording also has an expanded production and sound with new musicians, added instrumentation and freshly creative arrangements. Robin Stanley continues to develop a fine songwriting talent with beautifully crafted songs that will stick in your mind and touch your soul. There is even a heart warming bonus track at the end of the CD with Robin on ukulele. Included is a deluxe eight page full color folding booklet with complete lyrics and album notes. The CD itself features a full color reproduction of the enigmatic cover art, sure to be a collectors item in the years to come. Check out Robin's enchanting video performance for "A Heart Without A Home" on YouTube or visit Robin's website or Myspace page for more news and reviews. Read the reviews:

Chronic Empire, the sophmore album by Canadian pop rocker Robin Stanley, exemplifies indie pop at its finest. The album boasts artfully-crafted songs, strong performances, and sharp production. Stanley plays in a classic pop-rock style with a slightly rootsy flavor that is reminiscent of Dave Edmunds, Nick Lowe, and Tom Petty. On the album's opening track, "Once Upon a Time," Stanley sings a haunting melody over a bed of acoustic and electric guitars. "One Way Avenue" is a skillfully-sketched social vignette, reminiscent both lyrically and musically of the Kinks' "Dead End Street." "Angel of Mercy" is a beautiful pop ballad backed by reverbed guitar and accordian. Guitarist Ian Crew makes strong contributions throughout the album, including a fiery guitar solo on "Master of Disguise" and some bluesy slide playing on "Love's Made a Fool of Me." Best of all perhaps is 'Suburban Lawns," an absolutely wonderful pop song that should have been a huge hit. The album closer, "To the End," is another fantastic track, with an ultra-catchy melody and a brooding atmosphere. Chronic Empire finds Robin Stanley hitting his stride and really coming into his own as an artist. - Geoff Cabin, Rockbeat International.

Since his return to making music - he was a skinny-tie new-wave power-popper before adult responsibility got in the way - Robin Stanley has made two albums, of which Chronic Empire is the more assured. Not that Mad Kingdom was bad. It was more of a toe-dipped-in-the-water affair that took Stanley's measure as a songwriter. Satisfied that he had the goods, he jumped into the deep end. The result is more focused. He still shows his influences (Tom Petty, Ray Davies) but not to his detriment. With the title track, Stanley shows he's stripping his songs down to what is essential. -Tom Harrison, Vancouver Province.