Rufus Wainwright's majestic double album, Want, is a sprawling masterpiece that showcases the artist's incredible range and depth. Released on 1 January 2005 via Geffen, this 2-hour opus is a testament to Wainwright's innovative spirit and genre-bending style, which effortlessly blends chamber pop and singer-songwriter sensibilities.
With a vast array of tracks, including the poignant 'Oh What A World', the introspective 'I Don't Know What It Is', and the soaring 'Vibrate', Want is a richly textured and deeply personal work that explores themes of love, identity, and social commentary. From the wistful 'Pretty Things' to the haunting 'Agnus Dei', Wainwright's distinctive voice and poetic lyrics weave a spellbinding narrative that is both deeply moving and profoundly thought-provoking.
Throughout the album, Wainwright's eclectic influences and interests are on full display, from the nostalgic 'Movies Of Myself' to the deeply emotional 'Dinner At Eight'. The album also features a stunning live rendition of 'Chelsea Hotel No. 2', recorded at the Brighton Dome in 2004, which showcases Wainwright's captivating stage presence and emotional intensity.
With Want, Rufus Wainwright has created a work of remarkable beauty and complexity, a true masterpiece that showcases his unique vision and artistry. This album is a must-listen for fans of innovative and emotionally charged music, and a testament to Wainwright's status as one of the most innovative and exciting artists of his generation.