Robb Johnson, Miranda Sykes & Saskia Tomkins - 21st Century Blues (2001)

Robb Johnson's album, 21st Century Blues, features 15 songs performed with two accompanying musicians on double bass and violin/viola/cello. Dedicated "for the casualty list," including his mentor Eric Winter, the album carries a melancholic tone reflecting on "my dark hour." Johnson explores the weary character of modern England with a mix of resignation and wit, moving from reflective moments like A Rainy Afternoon in the Star to the ironic cheer of Santa's grotto on Hounslow High Street.

Tracks such as At the Siege of Madrid ignite with anarchistic energy, while the title track and Everybody Wants to Break Your Heart showcase a more subdued and rueful side. The stirring performances are enriched by the passionate and delicate accompaniment of Miranda and Saskia. Johnson's trademark acerbic humor takes a backseat in favor of heartfelt storytelling, as seen in the poignant tribute to a biker friend, I Am the Wind.

21st Century Blues is a powerful and moving album, with Johnson’s intelligent and affecting songwriting at its best—witty, sardonic, and deeply human.

Tracklist:
1-1 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - Voir Un Ami Pleurer
1-2 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - I Am the Wind
1-3 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - Texas Prison Songs
1-4 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - A Rainy Afternoon in the Star
1-5 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - The Petals of the Rose
1-6 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - Summerhouse Hill
1-7 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - Sweetheart
1-8 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - Dear Andy
1-9 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - I Apologise
1-10 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - The Passers-By
1-11 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - Everybody Wants to Break Your Heart
1-12 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - The Coastroad
1-13 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - At the Siege of Madrid
1-14 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - 21st Century Blues
1-15 Robb Johnson;Miranda Sykes;Saskia Tomkins - Father Christmas Down Hounslow High Street