The Abominable Showman
# The Abominable Showman

The Abominable Showman is the fourth solo album by the English singer-songwriter Nick Lowe, released in 1983. Lowe supported the album by touring with Paul Carrack.

The album was out of print for two decades until being reissued on CD and vinyl by Yep Roc Records on 14 July 2017. The reissue contained three bonus tracks.

## Critical reception

Professional ratings :

| Review scores ||
| - | - |
| Source | Rating |
| AllMusic | |
| Robert Christgau | B+ |
| The Rolling Stone Album Guide | |
| Spin Alternative Record Guide | 4/10 |

The New York Times noted the "light but appealing funk, reggae and 1960's soul in addition to the expected garage-pop-and-roll."

## Track listing

All tracks are written by Nick Lowe, except where noted.

Note: The packaging of the YepRoc reissue omits mention of "Pet You and Hold You" as a bonus track.

## Personnel

* Nick Lowe – bass, guitar, lead vocals
* James Eller – bass
* Bobby Irwin – drums, backing vocals
* Paul Carrack – keyboards, backing vocals, duet vocals on "Wish You Were Here"
* Martin Belmont – guitar

### Other credits

* Robert Kirby – string arrangements
* Carlene Carter and Simon Climie – harmonies and harmonics on "Time Wounds All Heels"
* Pete Marsh – backing vocals on "Paid The Price" and "Tanque-Rae"
* George Rains – The Abominable Showman
* Keith Morris – photography

## Production

The album was recorded at Rockfield Studios, Wales and Ampro Studio, London.

* Producer – Roger Bechirian with Nick Lowe
* Engineers – Roger Bechirian, Paul Cobbold and Paul Bass

## Singles

Three songs off this album were released as singles:

* "Raging Eyes" / "Tanque-Rae" ("Raging Eyes" was recorded in October 1981)
* "Cool Reaction" (Promo only)
* "Wish You Were Here" / "How Do You Talk To An Angel"
