Jonathan Richman and The Modern Lovers
Rockin' and Romance

THE REVIEW

There are absolutely essential albums known only to a niche audience, cult records that have become legends, albums that survive trends and styles and that increase their charm over time.
The undisputed author of these hidden treasures is certainly Richman, and "Rockin' and Romance" is the unrivaled masterpiece of that music which, for one reason or another, has never been in the spotlight.

The 13 songs:
The Beach - Acoustic ode to the beach and the sweet idleness.
My Jeans - Guitar, hand claps, and thrilling choruses to tell the story of a well-worn pair of jeans. Richman would like to change them, but in the stores, there are only Levis, not in his size...
Down In Bermuda - One of the most incredible songs ever written, standing between C. Berry and the Monty Python.
The U.F.O Man - A U.F.O flies over the city, becoming a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and unpredictability. One of the most beautiful metaphors for rock'n'roll.
I Must Be King - Sweet folk ballad, magical and intense.
Vincent Van Gogh - A compelling tribute to the great painter.
Water Johnson - Minimal composition, telling the story of this baseball player who is a hero to the author.
I'm Just Beginning To Live - A whirlwind of sounds and enveloping choruses.
The Fenwey - Autobiographical and nostalgic song. "There's silence to the place when you stand there in the sun / there's an echo from an era that's already past and gone".
Chewing Gum Wrapper - Devastating!
The Baltimores - Touching and charming, all played on the voices.
Up In The Sky Sometime - A r'n'r to say how sometimes it's healthy to have your head in the clouds.
Now Is Better Than Before - Gorgeous and fragile. It leaves you with a sense of bewilderment and satisfaction.

A satisfaction that puts you in full harmony with the author, so much so that even we, after listening to the record, can exclaim "Now Is Better Than Before".