One day later I am still in awe, in a sort of hangover after having witnessed the first (and only?) performance of 'Death Songbook' in front of an audience. 'Death Songbook' is a collection of songs loosely around the theme of death arranged by Charles Hazlewood and his Paraorchestra, an orchestra with people with and without disabilities. The songs contain Brett's own and others such as by David Sylvian, Skeeter Davis and Echo + the Bunnymen. It was first broadcast during lockdown 2021 (shudder) and I had actually not watched it online as I wasn't in the right headspace then to do so.
This special event was held at the stunning, enormous Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff as part of the Llais Festival where John Cale had played the night before - *sigh*. We got all decked up and it was such fun to wear a glamorous pink dress and rhinestone barrettes and earrings. The first few rows were all massive Suede fans and we collectively lost our minds to Brett and the orchestra.
I think 'Enjoy the Silence' was also a new addition to 'Death Songbook'. I'm a DM fan, especially of their 80s songs, so I should have loved this. I think the orchestra sounded great here and I particularly loved the way they sang the song out. However, I think it's really difficult for anyone to duet with Brett, the most commanding, arresting, intense solo performer. I felt there was little connection with Brett and Gwenno and they both kind of stayed in their box.
I did really love the visuals again, with the 'Violator' flower floating in background. So clever and just fabulous.