Escapology

Followup to the UK superstar's 2001 album, 'Swing When You're Winning', which has sold more than five million copies. 12 of the 15 tracks (including hidden track) were co-written with longtime collaborator Guy Chambers, who also co-produced. Chrysalis.

He's tried his hand at indie-rock, big-band swing, and brash pop music. So where does Robbie Williams' fifth album take the popular British entertainer? Escapology is a a serious attempt to make music that's equally artistically credible and commercially accessible. Williams has matured into an adult-orientated rock/pop performer. Indeed, tead single, "Feel," wouldn't sound misplaced when played along with Phil Collins and David Gray; the singer's heartfelt vocals elevate it above routine radio fare. The highlight here is the epic ballad "Love Somebody," as Williams pushes his voice to its limits atop a lush backdrop of brooding strings and a gospel choir. The heavier rock numbers are impressively produced. However, while they feel like attempts to pay homage to Oasis, they wind up sound more like Toploader. Williams continues to harp on about what a hard time he has being a pop star ("How Peculiar," "Something Beautiful"). To fit his newfound maturity, there is less self parody in the lyrics, although his sense of humor shines though on "Handsome Man" and "Me & My Monkey." Escapology also features the first track written entirely by Williams--"Nan's Song"--is a simple, moving tribute to his late grandmother. --David Trueman