A college radio staple eclipsed by only Elvis Costello in terms of longevity and stature, Robyn Hitchcock was sometimes a little too clever for his own good. That side of him is on prominent display on this greatest hits collection, but so is the just- clever- enough side. Lyrically and musically, Hitch doesn't disappoint too often. If you're new to his world, Uncorrected Personality Traits will work as a great introduction to his solo career.

What's he like? Paul McCartney on an ether bender. Robyn has never embraced reality, which is why he's done songs like "My Wife and My Dead Wife," "Raymond Chandler Evening," "Heart Full of Leaves," and even a few songs with fairly normal titles. My big complaint: not enough tracks from the finest of his works, 1990's acoustic album Eye. Yes, "Linctus House" is here (and rightfully so), but where's the elgaic instrumental "College of Glass" or the trippy "Aquarium"? Aw, hell, why must I bitch? They're both good albums, but since I'm reviewing Uncorrected Personality Traits, I suggest you buy that one first.

-Jason Josephes