Robbie is a worldwide superstar, on the same level as Madonna, everywhere but here in the U.S. Why? Maybe his cheeky British persona doesn't translate well to U.S. audiences. I'm not sure, and I don't understand why because other British acts with less talent than Robbie have had major success on these shores. It really makes no sense, but it might have had something to do with Capitol Records failure to market Robbie's U.S. releases. (Capitol did a horrible job with Duran Duran in the mid-to-late 90's- so it's not like they don't have some sort of track record with screwing up big acts careers!)

With "Escapology" Robbie has jumped the Capitol ship and has moved to Virgin Records. Hopefully they'll know what to do with him. The first single is "Feel" and it is easily one of the catchiest and hit-worthy tunes of 2003. There is actual songwriting going on here kids- that's something that is up for debate on most of what appears on today's hit parade. There is no mistaking what Robbie is singing- each song tells a story. This is an artist with something to say. It may be a bit bittersweet at times, but it never turns out preachy. He says exactly what is on his mind as is evidenced by the parental warning sticker that appears on the cover. The language doesn't go over in a rap-styled, offensive, "hide your kids ears" sort of way at all. Lyrically it's just very real, heartfelt, confessional, and at all times highly listenable.

One of the interesting things about Robbie's music is that it really doesn't strike a chord as being overly British at all. In fact, "Escapology" is his most "American" sounding effort yet. It doesn't sound like a calculated move to sell cd's either. "Escapology" might not grab you with hook laden arrangements like anything from "The Ego Has Landed" or "Sing When You're Winning", but everything starts clicking after subsequent spins. There aren't any obvious poppy songs here like "Millennium" or "Rock DJ". This is a more serious side of Robbie. But don't worry, you can't help but feel that his tongue isn't far from his cheek.

What you get here is 14 more Robbie Williams gems. There's not a stinker in the bunch.

You have to love any album where out of nowhere comes a reference to Sheena Easton! ("Me And My Monkey")

I know it's only April, but this is my album of the year (so far).


He's got it   March 4, 2004
7 out of 7 found this review helpful

This kind of straight-ahead pop (and it is that) usually is not to my taste, but I saw Williams in concert on a Europe MTV special and bought this CD out of curiosity. Sure enough, it is written and produced for the mass market, running the superfical gamut of styles, and upon first listen I was wondering if I had made a mistake. Then the clincher: this guy can sing. I mean, he can REALLY sing! Indeed, it his ability to cover it all that enables the album to be so eclectic. Consequently, after a second or third playing, I was mesmerized. The in-your-face, unapologetic self-absortion of this artist may not be appealing, but Robbie Williams can't be ignored. His confident, superior styling simply enhances his delivery. Granted, this package is certainly not without its flaws with some songs that are at best forgettable, but, in the end, there are enough clever and intriguing selections (a few which caused the release to be censored) to make for a pleasing musical experience. Above all else, however, it is the voice that is the reward; it is the main reason I recommend this to others and why I have also suprisingly become a fan.


Best CD in years   February 26, 2004
CRISTINA VISKER (29 Palms, CA United States)
6 out of 6 found this review helpful

I can honestly say this is one of the best cds that I have ever heard in my life. 98% of the songs are excellent and very pleasant to listen to. This is the first time I have bought a cd from robbie williams and am planning to get some of his other stuff. Anyone who likes good pop music should get it.


OK, I'm the biggest Robbie fan in the USA...   April 4, 2003
Calliecatj2000 (GA)
8 out of 9 found this review helpful

...so I'm a little biased. I think he could release a cd of nothing but himself reading the telephone book and I'd give it 5 stars.

That said, this is a fantastic album. Anyone who is unfamiliar with Robbie might not understand some of the context of "Handsome Man" or "Come Undone," but you have to appreciate the honesty he pours into his lyrics. And I'd say EVERYONE at some time or another can relate to the sentiments in "Love Somebody" and "Feel."

Escapology has a different sound from Robbie's previous albums, and anyone expecting another "Millenium" will be surprised. The production is a lot less dense, and while there's still some clever & sarcastic humor, these songs have a far more grown-up viewpoint. Heck, there's even some swearing on this one, which is funny in some ways because I've always wondered how this incredibly foul-mouthed guy could keep his lyrics so clean.

I've been a Robbie Williams fan for years now, and it's my goal to force everyone I know to listen to his music. Not only is he the sexiest man in entertainment (Hell-ooo, 'Rock DJ' video!) but he also writes or co-writes all of his own music. Those qualities, combined with his fanatstic sense of humor and truly beautiful voice make our American pop stars just look pathetic.

I love this album, but I'd actually recommend getting the European version. "Hot Fudge" is one one the best sing-along-at-the-top-of-your-lungs-while-driving songs ever recorded, but it was left off the American album because the lyrics are all about moving to Los Angelos, and I suppose that would have been viewed as trying too hard to appeal to this side of the pond. The other discarded songs are great, too. Then again, I'm the one waiting for that telephone book album, so don't take my word for it...