Hokey Pokey (album)
Hokey Pokey is a 1975 studio album by the British musical duo Richard and Linda Thompson. It was released on Island Records.
The album, named after the children's song and dance of the same name, represents a departure from the more somber tone of their previous work, I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight. Hokey Pokey features a more lighthearted and playful approach, incorporating elements of folk, rock, and even touches of vaudeville.
Key tracks include "Hokey Pokey," the title track and a celebration of communal joy, and "I'll Regret It All in the Morning," a more characteristic Thompson song of regret and consequence. Other notable songs include "Smiffy's Glass Eye" and "Georgie On the Spree."
The album showcases Richard Thompson's guitar virtuosity and Linda Thompson's distinctive vocals. The arrangements are generally more complex and textured than on their earlier albums, reflecting a growing confidence and experimentation in their studio work.
While perhaps not as critically acclaimed as some of their other albums, Hokey Pokey remains a significant work in Richard and Linda Thompson's discography, demonstrating their versatility and ability to blend different musical styles. It is considered by many fans to be a charming and enjoyable collection of songs.