Review Summary: An artist by all means who should be taught in concervatorys !!! Far ahead from his time
Klaus Nomi was a charismatic man, a countertenor who can speak at you not through his lyrics which are sometimes playful and other desperate for being heard but mostly and mainly through his wide vocal range
Listening for the first time Klaus I was impressed about how modern his music sounds today ranging from synthesizer-laden interpretations of classical music opera to covers of 1960s pop standards. But everything in his first album captures his genious spirit of creativity and reveals his passion about opera.The result is album ‘’colourful” that blends masterfully elements of pop-dance of 70s era and bits of glam with keen experimentation.Nomi’s love about opera begun in 60s when he worked as an usher at the Deutsche Opera in West Berlin where he sang for the other ushers and maintenance crew on stage in front of the fire curtain after performances.
Nomi was known for his bizarrely visionary theatrical live performances, heavy make-up, unusual costumes, and a highly stylized signature hairdo which flaunted a receding hairline.He built his persona after Bowie hired him for backup voice and performer on his appearance on Saturday Night Live.Bowie was wearing a plastic quasi-tuxedo suit that impressed so much Klaus so he ordered and for his self which later became trademark of his live performances.However before meets Bowie he has appeared in many clubs of New York who got impressed by this strange artist. In the mornings he was taking music lessons while he was working as a confectioner.He died in 1983 at the age of 39 as a result of complications from AIDS.
This album without being groundbreaking has its own identity and a sincere internality. We can’t say that this album affected artists because it never had this intention. The personality of Klaus is really interesting and his life inspiring, but it’s really tough to keep up. His work was powerful and inventive, truly amazing and original. Songs like ‘’keys of life” or ‘’total eclipse” it’s like coming from the future to tell us what to be done with this planet with beats and synthesizers burst behind, but in a balanced and polished way.’’ Wasting my time“and ‘’Cold song’’ are personal highlights with Klaus at his most melodic and most touching moments. Covers of classic 60’s songs like “lightning strikes” and “twist” have a refreshed and capturing sound. A proper end comes with the aria from Samson and Delila which left me with a tear. By the end he surely have shooked your brain and touched your heart.
Klaus Nomi was an artist by all means who influenced people with his attitude and his devotion to music.He was singing for his life and our life in simple words and in a passionate voice.If you are interested,you are welcome to his world.
