A Tramp Alone (Radio Broadcast Radio Campus Paris, 1997)

Description

Few songwriters have left as unique a mark on popular music as Roger Hodgson. Born in Portsmouth, England, Hodgson co-founded Supertramp in 1969 alongside Rick Davies, helping to shape the unique blend of progressive rock and melodic pop that characterized the band. As the writer and performer of many timeless Supertramp classics — such as "Dreamer," "Give a Little Bit," "The Logical Song," "Breakfast in America," and "Take the Long Way Home" — Hodgson propelled the band to worldwide fame throughout the 1970s and early 1980s with his unmistakable voice and talent for crafting memorable songs. After leaving Supertramp in 1983, Hodgson embarked on a successful solo career, launched by the critically acclaimed album *In the Eye of the Storm* (1984). His subsequent albums showcased the same melodic sophistication and emotional depth that had made him one of the most respected songwriters in the rock world. He released his second album, *Hai Hai* (1987), before stepping away from studios and touring for a while. Hodgson made his return to the stage in 1996, giving his first concerts in nearly a decade, before embarking on larger tours in Canada and Europe in 1997, much to the delight of his fans. Recorded during a live radio show on Radio Campus in Paris (France) on April 27, 1997, the performance featured on this disc showcases Roger Hodgson in an intimate and warm setting, facing an enthusiastic French audience during his European tour. Stripped down yet deeply expressive, the concert offers stunning interpretations of iconic Supertramp tracks as well as highlights from his solo repertoire. The warmth of the event and the natural rapport established between Hodgson and the audience make this recording a particularly memorable testament to the talent of this exceptional artist. Unreleased on CD, this exceptional recording provides a rare opportunity to rediscover Roger Hodgson's timeless songs in a highly intimate atmosphere. Essential for die-hard Supertramp fans as well as admirers of one of Britain's greatest songwriters, this album beautifully attests to the enduring nature of his music.