Album: None of the Above

Introduction
"None of the Above" is an album by English singer-songwriter Peter Hammill, released in the year 2000 under the Fie! Records label. Famed for his work as the frontman of the progressive rock band Van der Graaf Generator, Hammill has likewise had an effective solo profession with a vast array of musical styles and styles. "None of the Above" is a sonically varied and thoughtful record that showcases Hammill's unique songwriting skills and abundant voice.

Background and Production
Following the release of his acclaimed album "This" in 1998, Hammill continued composing and tape-recording brand-new material for his next solo job. "None of the Above" was the result of these efforts, featuring a mix of electronic and acoustic instrumentation, with Hammill performing most parts himself. The album was produced by Hammill himself, along with long time associate David Lord, at Hammill's own studio-- Terra Incognita.

Tracklist and Themes
"None of the Above" includes ten tracks that span various designs, from electronic rock to ambient. Hammill's love for difficult and engaging tunes appears throughout the album, as he takes on topics of social dependence, control, and more:

1. Touch and Go (4:48)-- A positive, appealing track going over the intricacies of relationships, both personal and societal.
2. Driven (6:38)-- With dark lyrics and hypnotic instrumentation, this track delves into concerns of dependence and control.
3. Access All Areas (6:19)-- A more guitar-driven track, expressing the feelings of seclusion and the difficulty of keeping relationships.
4. Wished To Belong (6:08)-- A haunting, piano-based ballad about longing for a sense of belonging and community.
5. When You Called Me (4:20)-- A reflective song including delicate guitar work, reflecting on the nature of change and the loss of connection.
6. This Is Where I Should Be (6:32)-- A song about searching for one's location on the planet and the restlessness that typically accompanies that journey.
7. Simply Is (4:15)-- A soothing, ambient piece about the need to simplify and welcome the natural elements of life.
8. Some of the Time (7:06)-- Another introspective track that considers the nature of aging, loss, and dealing with one's mortality.
9. Unmentioned Words (2:56)-- A quick, but poignant piece about the power and impact of unmentioned thoughts and emotions.
10. Tuesday, the Riff (4:42)-- An upbeat, rock-infused better commemorating the universal happiness and battles of everyday life.

Important Reception
"None of the Above" received mostly favorable evaluations from music critics, with many praising Hammill's ability to integrate different designs in order to create a sonically varied and appealing album. His voice, often described as powerful and emotive, was also highlighted by critics as a strong property to the record-- interacting the styles and feelings of each song with sincerity.

Some critics, nevertheless, were less favorable towards the album, with a couple of arguing that it did not have the cohesive and innovative qualities found in Hammill's earlier works. However, "None of the Above" remains a strong addition to his discography, showcasing his adaptability and expertise as a singer-songwriter.

Conclusion
"None of the Above" by Peter Hammill is a fascinating record that showcases the singer-songwriter's variety of skills, from electronic experimentation to heartfelt ballads. The album's thought-provoking styles and interesting structures make it a worthwhile listen for fans of Hammill's work, in addition to more casual listeners trying to find an engaging, thoughtful musical experience.