Rufus Wainwright's sophomore album, Poses, is a masterful continuation of his poignant and insightful journey of self-discovery. Released on 5 June 2001 through DreamWorks Records, this 52-minute chamber pop and singer-songwriter masterpiece showcases Wainwright's growth as an artist, tempering the intensity of his debut with a more realistic and nuanced perspective.
Produced by Pierre Marchand, with additional production credits going to Alex Gifford, Ethan Johns, Damian LeGassick, and Greg Wells, Poses features a diverse range of tracks, including the haunting 'Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk', the evocative 'Greek Song', and the poignant 'Grey Gardens'. Wainwright's distinctive vocals and art direction are complemented by the executive production of Lenny Waronker and the mastering engineering of Chris Potter.
With Poses, Rufus Wainwright cements his reputation as a visionary singer-songwriter, offering a deeply personal and affecting album that explores the complexities of adulthood and the human experience. This critically acclaimed album has been rated as one of the best of 2001, and its influence can still be felt today. As a testament to Wainwright's innovative spirit and creative genius, Poses remains an essential listen for fans of chamber pop and singer-songwriter genres.