Nov, 2020
Released 9th October, 2020.
"I foolishly watched a documentary on the making of Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys a month or two before we went into the studio. If you happen to be in the record making business you’ll probably know what I’m talking about here. Suddenly you’re all... Hey, let’s have the band, orchestra and singer kick it live in a big room. We’ll record it with just four or five excellent old microphones, straight to proper two-inch tape. It’ll be finished in a week because we’ll be bashing one out every hour. And we’ll barely need to mix it because it will just sound great already! Amusingly, I get that same old frisson of excitement just talking about it again. Old Luddites like myself are always looking for that magic bullet that will make things sound just like their favourite oldies. There’s only one problem; it’s not 1966 and I’m not Burt Bacharach (more’s the pity...)."
‘Victory For The Comic Muse’ was first released in 2006. Recorded virtually live in the studio over a two-week period, 'Victory...’ showcased Neil's restless creativity and his flair for observation and narrative.
The Guardian called it a “triumphant comeback” and Spin declared "[Hannon] deserves to be recognized as the unsung genius of symphonic pop."
Singles from the album include ‘To Die A Virgin’, ‘Diva Lady’ and live favourite ‘A Lady Of A Certain Age’.
For this reissue 'Victory For The Comic Muse' has been remastered by Frank Arkwright at the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
The CD release consists of 2 discs: the original remastered album, with a second CD of B-sides, demos and alternate versions. This 2CD set comes with a booklet of photos with extensive liner notes written by Neil covering the context and content of each album.
The LP release is the original remastered album, packaged with a download code for 'Victory For The Comic Muse' and its bonus tracks. Pressed at Optimal on heavyweight black vinyl, this edition is housed in a gatefold sleeve accompanied with photos, credits and Neil's liner notes.
If you buy the LP from our webstore it comes with a pin badge, and don't forget to check out the array of awesome anniversary merch including mugs, t-shirts and tote bags!
We'd love you to share your 'Victory For The Comic Muse' memories and any band memorabilia from this period. Remember to use #TheDivineComedy30 when you post.
All formats (including digital) out now.
