My family have managed to agree on one thing: a mutual adoration of Rufus Wainwright, the supremely talented Canadian singer-songwriter.
His single concert date at the grand Lyceum Theatre in London was packed out, all his most ardent fans were there including some notable celebrities: I spotted Jonathan Ross on the way out but many more have mentioned attending. We booked our tickets months and months in advance, paid a fortune and still found ourselves seated in the dizzying highest section which in a theatre as big as the Lyceum felt sky high. Teddy Thompson came on first as the support act. A lone minstrel with guitar on the stage, his music felt rather isolated and poignant in the great auditorium. His voice is rich and soulful and some of his songs are very touching, particularly the composition written for his mother.
Then on came Rufus, blasting light and energy onto the stage. Singing numbers from across his repertoire but particularly plugging his new album, ‘Out Of The Game’, he sounded better than ever. On stage he is an extraordinarily intense presence, and yet wiggles about doing his unique dance moves. In his welcome speech he admitted “I’m wearing the world’s cheapest sunglasses and the world’s most expensive shoes,” these came in the form of neon orange slippers and mysterious but silly glasses. In his music he is deep and meaningful and yet in person, on stage he has a frivolous comical attitude.
His music, as ever, showed variety, vision and creativity and he sang superbly throughout. But although I enjoyed his newer, more psychedelic poppy songs, it is the old classics that most satisfy my appetite. ‘The Art Teacher’ and ‘Poses’ were particularly stunning and very memorable.
Everyone got a chance to play and shine from the band and at times the concert seemed a bit like an open mic night, albeit a very good one. His beloved and equally talented sister even made an appearance to give a heart-wrenching performance, her voice is hugely affecting and quite beautiful.
It was an unforgettable night with one of the world’s greatest musicians.
Visit Rufus’ website here for more information.