I will be the first to admit, Rufus Wainwright is not for everyone. His throaty voice can be difficult. But, I hasten to say, if you give him time, you can become of lover of his music as I’ve done since his self-titled debut in 1998.He’s back after three years with his newest work of pop-operettas, Release the Stars. Like his 4 previous works, he continues to master his talent with songs that are layered and textured, with full orchestral backing.
But unlike his Want One and Want Two, which seemed to represent his most destructive period, one that was raw with emotion and fear, Release the Stars could be the closest he can get to mainstream. It ain’t going to happen, but that -for me anyways - is a good thing.
It seems, as I’ve read, he’s become happy; in love and off drugs, and apparently, having a better relationship with his father, legendary folk artist Loudon. So, while he mourns still, its for the state of the world, such as in Going to Town with its take on George Bush’s idea of the world. And, apparently, in the song Tulsa, questioning the sexuality of Killers lead singer Brandon Flowers. But, on the whole, this is a strong album with great songs such as Not Ready to Love, which harks back to his first album.
But like his four previous releases, there is still a bit of camp value with his work. And while he’s never one to shy away from his sexuality, he still continues to try and find a balance between his gay identity and the gay icon he has both embraced and ignored.
This fall, Wainwright will release his a CD and DVD of his tribute to the classic 1961 performance of Judy Garland concert.
Big time gay.
Big time gay.
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