"Clutch" is an album by English singer-songwriter Peter Hammill, released in 2002. This album is notable for being entirely composed of solo performances by Hammill on the guitar, with an absence of the keyboards and drumming that were prominently featured in his past works. His unique and powerful singing, combined with fascinating and complex lyrics, present an emotionally honest exploration of life and its myriad experiences.
The tracks include a mix of new compositions and reworkings of some of Hammill's earlier songs. The record features seven original songs like "My Pulse", "Amnesiac" and "We Are Written". There are also reinterpretations of two of his classic songs, "Like Veronica" from the album "The Silent Corner and the Empty Stage", and "Silver", originally from the Van der Graaf Generator album "World Record".
The album represents a return to Hammill's roots as a singer-songwriter. The sparse arrangements, raw production, and focus on lyrical content provide an introspective atmosphere. "Clutch" was highly praised for Hammill's emotive performances and the stripped-down format of the album that allowed his songwriting talents to shine.
