ARRIVING at The Duchess after an American tour with his band The Venus 3 and summer appearances at Glastonbury and Portishead’s ATP Festival, cult English songwriter Robyn Hitchcock will promote his 2013 album in York this weekend.

“Thirty nine years is an extremely long time to survive in this music biz and Robyn Hitchcock has not only done that, but he has also crafted one of the best records of his career,” says Please Please You concert booker Joe Coates.

“In April, Robyn released Love From London, which displayed just what a singular talent, and reminding the world what a national treasure, he is.”

Hitchcock formed and fronted The Soft Boys in 1976. “They were one of the best British bands ever, but they recorded only two and a half amazing records and it was over,” says Joe.

“But Hitchcock’s surreal wordplay continues to bring to mind the sadly lost fellow English greats Kevin Ayers and Syd Barrett with his fantastic imagery and great tales that lie beneath.”

Doors open at 7pm on Saturday, when the support act will by Rozi Plain. Tickets cost £14 in advance from The Duchess or £16 on the night; please note, this show will be 50 per cent seated on an unreserved basis.