Album Notes

Obligatory British Villains began circa 1997 by Robin Locksley as a outlet for his own music. Before that Robin played bass guitar in lots of local bands in the Chicagoland area where he was born. Robin was named quite literally after the English outlaw-hero, Robin Hood by his brother. Immediate musical influences
growing up came from his mother who encouraged family singing. Next came the influence of two female cousins who brought lots of popular records. After hearing the Beatles as a child his destiny, like many others, as a musician was sealed. Although influenced by rock music of the 60's/70's, it was the 80's that saw a rebirth
to Robin's musical interests, particularily in the new wave genre. Now Robin finds himself influenced by all periods of music as well as by extensive travel in the UK. OBV's debut album, O.B.E. was recorded at Robin's home studio, Nonesuch House, and released in late May 2004. Robin wrote and performed everything but also features vocals by his musical partner Liz Middleton. A longtime friend and musical collaborator, Kevin Crosslin (Cavestar.com), mastered the audio and designed the album.
REVIEWS
Illinois Entertainer -March 2005
OBV let their British roots proudly permeate their richly layered synth-based instrumentation and harmony-laden vocals. Their sound is layered so deeply in fact, that one might be surprised to learn that OBV consist of only two "villains." Call it folk-electronica or lounge-new-wave, just leave it in the CD player and let it wash over you.
The Midwest Beat -September 2004  
Obligatory British Villains: interesting name, which luckily comes with interesting music. Their new release, O.B.E., consists of ten great electronic-based tracks. Obligatory British Villains is one man and one woman, who together create a CD filled with layers of sound. Their harmonies are beautiful, and the instrumental work is quite impressive.
Computer Music (UK) September 2004
Obligatory British Villains-I Remember
An Extremely competent vocal leads this energetic number from American Robin Locksley, who clearly has a
fixation with English music.