Rufus Does Judy At Capitol Studios
BMG, 2022
8/10
Listen to Rufus Does Judy At Capitol Studios
A project that was livestreamed virtually last year, the always impressive Rufus Wainwright interprets these classic works on the year of Judy Garland’s 100th birthday, and he’s joined by a 4 piece jazz ensemble for the performance.
“Come Rain Or Shine” aligns warm keys and frisky drumming with Wainwright’s expressive and smooth pipes in the swift climate, and “Alone Together” follows with a calmer pace of elegant keys and very stirring singing.
Further into the listen, “The Man That Got Away” showcases cozy guitar and plucked upright bass alongside Wainwright’s soaring pipes, while “Just You, Just Me” bops and shakes with an infectious energy that illustrates Wainwright’s very adaptable voice.
Inching towards the end, “Happy Days Are Here Again/Get Happy” pairs Kristin Chenoweth’s gorgeous delivery with Wainwright’s booming delivery as the songs are meshed together creatively, and the best selection, “Over The Rainbow”, exits the listen with a stripped back atmosphere that allows for Wainwright’s inimitable craft to shine.
These songs are illuminated so well in Wainwright’s boundless talent, and, if you recall, this isn’t the first time he’s done Judy. Back in 2007 he was accompanied by a 36 piece orchestra for Rufus Does Judy At Carnegie Hall. This time it’s a more trimmed back affair, but no less impactful in its sublime beauty.
Travels well with: Martha Wainwright- Come Home To Mama; Rufus Wainwright- Unfollow The Rules