Patrick Wolf Unleashes Another Masterpiece
The Bachelor offers a veritable electronic symphony to its listeners.
Patrick Wolf
The Bachelor
Released on Aug 11, 2009
When artists try to juxtapose two radically different styles of music—say, for example, classical music and electronica—the effect usually comes off as cheesy rather than innovative. In the case of Patrick Wolf, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Thanks to his best trait (that stunning voice), he can take danceable beats, back them up with a violin, and achieve a unique and enjoyable sound.
The Bachelor, Wolf’s third album, is part of a two-disk set. The latter part, entitled The Conqueror, is set for a 2010 release. These two albums are dually influenced by the depression that Wolf felt before beginning work in the studio, and the fact that he fell in love upon entering the studio (or so says my trusty source, Wikipedia). Listening to some of the lyrics on this disc, one would certainly be able to link it to his pre-studio depressive state. The title track features jilted strings at the start, and a disjointed feel throughout as Wolf snarls (rather beautifully, still) the lyrics “I will never marry, marry at all.” It’s fraught with bitterness, but he still manages to make the song sound very polished, rather than out of control and raw.
What’s wonderful (and almost comforting) about Wolf is just how solid his sound is—he never comes off as clumsy, which might be easy when combining orchestral tones with dance beats. Frankly, I give the credit to his voice. It’s second only to Antony Hegarty (of Antony and the Johnsons) in its beauty and clarity, and it can turn any song into a transformative experience. On “Vulture,” the first single and the danciest track by far, his tone makes it equally appropriate for a club or a concert hall. That is an artistic feat to be admired.
In case you’re not into juxtapositions, Wolf includes some purely vocal/instrumental tracks to sate those listeners as well. “Blackdown” features a piano, rollicking clapping (at parts, you feel like you’re in a pub), and what honestly sounds like a fife. It’s an eclectic addition to this album, but certainly a welcome one, since even more attention is paid to the lyrics.
My only issue is this: sometimes, the album has a bit too much grandeur to it. Again, when you have a voice like Wolf and combine it with a penchant for involved orchestral compositions, the effect is not exactly easygoing, making The Bachelor seem like more of a “special occasion” album rather than an everyday listen. However, if you’re looking for some opulence in your life, be sure to listen to The Bachelor.
High Point
The gorgeous piano part on “Blackdown.” There’s nothing more wonderful than when an artist gets behind a piano to play an involved piece, rather than just a catchy hook.
Low Point
“Damaris.” I love his theatricality, but even this track was a bit too much for me. And the repeated “God damn Damaris” stayed in my head for DAYS, unfortunately.
Posted by Alyssa Vincent on Aug 11, 2009 @ 6:00 am
