Rufus Wainwright sings and plays Kurt Weill. Sure, that’s obvious. Wainwright was always inclined towards the theatrical, composed two operas, has – like Weill – written several times for film and stage and is not afraid of big names, as he has already proven with his setting of Shakespeare. Starting with the “September Song,” Wainwright interprets 16 pieces by the legendary composer, singing mostly English, but also German and French with a thick accent, and is supported by the Pacific Jazz Orchestra from Los Angeles, where I’M A STRANGER HERE MYSELF was also recorded live in front of an audience.
Editorial recommendations
But as logical as the constellation is, only what is expected emerges from it. Wainwright applies all his pathos to the Weill classics and showcases what the 40 musicians of the Pacific Jazz Orchestra have to offer in terms of strings and brass. He throws himself into the chicest melodies in Weill’s collection, slows down “Surabaya Johnny” almost to a standstill and sinks “The Saga Of Jenny” into even more syrup than Julie Andrews once did.
One could say that Wainwright cleverly exploits Weill’s epic big band jazz potential. But he also erases the little quibbles that helped Weill’s catchiest songs retain some of their awkwardness.
This review first appeared in Musikexpress 12/2025.