Presenting the life’s work of two of British music’s most unique and timeless artists, with an introduction by Jarvis Cocker.

Side by Side presents the lyrics, poems, writings and drawings of innovative musician Robert Wyatt and his creative partner, English painter and songwriter Alfie Benge.

Artist and collaborator Brian Eno said ‘Whenever an aspiring musician asks me about songwriting I point them towards Robert and Alfie. Their work is so unusual, so perceptive, so playful and so grown-up…well, I don’t think there’s really anyone to compare. If you want songs that touch your mind as well as your heart, these are the best. Wide distribution of this book could improve the state of music dramatically.’

Published in hardback and beautiful limited edition, which includes four prints of Alfie’s artwork, this unique volume celebrates one of the most enduring creative partnerships of the last half-century.

Pre-order the limited edition exclusively from Rough Trade.

Robert Wyatt was a founding member of influential English rock bands Soft Machine and Matching Mole. With a solo career that has lasted for over forty years, during which time he has guest-edited the Today Programme, curated Meltdown Festival and collaborated with a diverse range of artists including Björk, Brian Eno, Carla Bley, Paul Weller and David Gilmour, his own music remains unclassifiably personal.

Alfie Benge is a visual artist, songwriter and pioneering music manager, having managed Wyatt’s career for forty-six years. She is also married to Wyatt and, since 1982, they have collaborated on many of his most well-known songs.

Pre-order hardback edition. Publishing 17 September 2020.