Composer: Ute Lemper
Works: The Thousand and One Lives of Ute Lemper – A Trilingual Portrait
Performers: Ute Lemper (vocals), various artists
Recording: Archive material recorded at various times and places
Label: Art Haus Musik
Ute Lemper emerges as a singular force in the contemporary music scene, seamlessly weaving together the threads of cabaret, classical, and popular genres. “The Thousand and One Lives of Ute Lemper – A Trilingual Portrait” serves not merely as a showcase of her vocal artistry but as a rich tapestry reflecting her multifaceted career. The compilation intelligently juxtaposes Lemper’s interpretations of Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill with works by Michael Nyman and others, painting a vivid portrait of an artist who has navigated the complexities of cultural identity and artistic expression across multiple languages and styles.
The DVD opens with an insightful rehearsal segment from “Chicago,” where Lemper’s charismatic presence is palpable. Her interpretive choices are striking; she employs a dynamic blend of theatricality and vocal nuance that captures the essence of the characters she portrays. This is particularly evident in her performance of “Mackie Messer,” where she balances the song’s inherent cynicism with a playful yet menacing charm. Lemper’s vocal technique, characterized by a wide range and an expressive timbre, allows her to traverse the emotional landscapes of each piece with ease. However, her stylistic trademarks, including sudden shifts in dynamic and the use of breathy whispers, can verge on the excessive, potentially alienating listeners who might prefer a more restrained approach.
Recording quality is commendable, with well-engineered sound that captures the subtleties of Lemper’s voice and the varied instrumental accompaniments. The blend of live performance and archival footage enhances the viewing experience, allowing one to appreciate the evolution of her artistry over time. The clarity of the audio ensures that even the most intricate details of her phrasing and articulation are preserved, which is crucial given the intricate nature of the repertoire she chooses. The interviews interspersed throughout the performance provide additional context, revealing Lemper’s thoughtful engagement with her art and her views on contemporary issues in the performing arts, thus enriching the overall narrative.
In juxtaposing Lemper’s interpretations with those of her contemporaries, it becomes clear that while she excels in bringing a personal touch to the material, her style may not resonate with all listeners. Where some may find the emotional immediacy of her rendition of “Lili Marlene” captivating, others might perceive it as overly theatrical. Notably, her interpretation of Nyman’s compositions showcases her ability to navigate more contemporary idioms, highlighting her versatility, though it occasionally lacks the stark precision that some might expect from modern classical interpretations.
The Thousand and One Lives of Ute Lemper stands as a fascinating and insightful exploration of an artist who embodies the spirit of cross-genre performance. Lemper’s ability to engage and provoke thought through her music, coupled with her striking visual presence, ensures that this DVD is more than a mere showcase; it is a testament to her enduring relevance in the cultural landscape. For aficionados of cabaret and those interested in the intersection of classical and contemporary music, this trilingual portrait not only entertains but also invites deeper reflection on the nature of performance itself.
