Robbie Williams - 'Britpop' review: A jubilant tribute to the sound that made him

When Robbie Williams declares his musical intentions, he rarely does so half-heartedly – and with ‘Britpop’his thirteenth studio album, he delivers a full-throttle, defiantly joyful tribute to the sonic era that helped define British music in the 1990s. Out now via Columbia Records, this record isn’t just a nostalgic exercise; it’s a boldly executed collision of surprising guitars, anthemic hooks and Robbie’s irrepressible personality.

Right from the opening wave off ‘Rocket’ – driven by explosive guitar work from the heavy rock legend Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) – Williams sets the tone for an album that wears its influences proudly while stamping them with its own pop flair. The song’s swirling riffs and unwavering energy signal that ‘Britpop’ is raw, upbeat and purposefully unpolished in all the best ways.

But this isn’t a one-trick retro act. Tracks like “Spies” and “All My Life” swirling in retro-indie textures with Robbie’s unmistakable vocal charisma, threading a smart line between loving homage and pure pop invention. Lyrically, Williams navigates themes from fame and mortality to self-reflection, showing a mature songwriter who still knows how to connect with an audience.

Collaborations across the album – from Coldplay’s Chris Martin to a memorable feedback with Gary Barlow – add rich layers of melodic and emotional depth. Stands out like the reflex ‘Human’with Mexican duo Jesse & Joyshowcase an artist comfortable stretching beyond the expected, balancing bombast with sincerity.

What does ‘Britpop’ special is not only its celebration of a glorious British musical tradition, but also its unpredictability and heart. Whether you’re drawn in by the rollicking hooks or the playful charm, Robbie’s undeniable charm ties it all together and reminds us why he remains one of Britain’s best-loved musical icons.

On reflection, ‘Britpop’ feels less like a standard album and more like a mission statement: Robbie Williams leans fully into his influences, reshaping them through his own unmistakable theatrical style and reminding us that – even decades into his career – he can still surprise, provoke and truly delight.