This short and concise album brings to life the feel of a personal cabaret show in your own home.
Ute Lemper really showcases her experience and understanding of the songs by Kurt Weill on this fabulously focused album that is filled with a sultry darkness and depth that is irresistible from start to finish.
Marking what would have been Weill’s 125th birthday, this is an album that combines traditional songs but gives them a contemporary uplift to offer new life and introduce them to new audiences.
This intention is made very much clear from the start, with a bold an unexpected rendition of ‘Mack the Knife’, during which Ute Lemper highlights the darkness of the character at the centre of it with a sultriness that shows depth and understanding of the song. Musically, it is an intriguing arrangement that will keep the listener captivated from start to finish.
Formed of only eight songs, there is plenty to discover here. Perhaps on occasions, the music slightly overpowers the lyrics as on ‘Speak Low’ – but perhaps this is intentional to allow Weill’s music to really soar and for the most part it does work.
Particular stand outs are Lemper’s versions of ‘Surabaya Johnny’ which is really hard to resist, with its element of mystery. Lemper’s vocals on this track show such great versatility.
There is a real distinctive style that offers real consistency to the album. Lemper’s rendition of ‘Pirate Jenny’ has a dark and menacing vibe to it, showcasing the brilliant way she is able to offer such a range of different characters through song. It is an album that has a wonderful intimate vibe to it, making it feel like a personalised cabaret performance for the listener only.
Every song that has been included is thought provoking and it concludes with a powerful rendition of ‘Solomon Song’ that makes the listener sit up and pay attention and brings the audience full circle for an immensely enjoyable forty minutes.
Overall, this is an album that feels like a labour of love – both in terms of the song selection and the way in which Lemper sings them. It is a record filled with character and personality that keeps the listener thoroughly engaged. Ute Lemper really understood her subject here.
By Emma Clarendon
Pirate Jenny is available to buy and download now. You can catch up with our interview with Ute discussing the album here.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️