Max Raabe - Palast Orchester

[Broomstick]

OK, where have these guys been all my life? They specialize in the 1920-30's era of music. He's a guy my age playing the music of our parents' generation. I caught him on TV last night and really enjoyed the concert. Of course, being German that's mostly what his repertoire is in, but you know, I enjoy listening to him croon in German. Also has an extensive collection of English language tunes. I can only assume he is capable of singing in several other languages, should he choose to do. Absolutely beautiful diction, in the "crooner" style.



Also has a wicked sense of humor that comes out in his stage show. (They had a bit of an interview with him - he said America audiences are usually surprised to find Germans have a sense of humor. Well, yeah, I knew they did, but he's right). They have a mix that runs from serious to funny.

Let's see what's on YouTube:

Is this a song about a little green cactus?

I have no idea what he's singing here, but it sure sounds nice. Really, a sampling of their musical range.

Here's Singin' in the Rain for us English speakers - his English is better than a lot of native speakers. The singing starts about halfway through, the other musicians seem to get to shine quite a bit in these performances.

And some of the WWII era comedy style songs, which I understand were popular on both sides of the Atlantic during some rather harsh time. Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf

Look, I don't speak German, but any song with "Viagra" in the chorus has got to be funny... Yeah, it's a new song, but done in the Big Band era style. What, can't he write new material?

The said thing - he's coming to Chicago this spring, to Orchestra Hall. And there's no way in hell I'll be able to afford to got see and hear him. >sigh<

[Spoonist]

You got on the bandwagon now?

He was all over the place when he did Britney's Oups I did it again a waaaaaay while back.

Any serious burlesque show in europe will usually have at least one of Max' tunes.

[Broomstick]

Yeah, well, that's Europe - I'm stuck out here in the colonies.

And I don't follow this "Britney" person. Who? (And I'm sure Max did it better).

[Spoonist]

Yeah, well, that's Europe - I'm stuck out here in the colonies.

Yes, but it was all over that dubdubdub thingie young people surf on these days.

And I don't follow this "Britney" person. Who? (And I'm sure Max did it better).

Of course.

[Broomstick]

Yeah, well, that's Europe - I'm stuck out here in the colonies.

Yes, but it was all over that dubdubdub thingie young people surf on these days.

Well, maybe there's the problem - I'm pretty sure I've aged out of the "young people" category.

And I don't follow this "Britney" person. Who? (And I'm sure Max did it better).

Of course.

Yes, yes he did.