The Sun Still Burns Here Perfume Genius
Perfume Genius is the stage name of Mike Hadreas, an American singer-songwriter and musician. He has been active in the music industry since 2008, and his music is known for its emotional depth and vulnerability. In 2019, Perfume Genius released his fifth studio album, "The Sun Still Burns Here," which is a collaboration with choreographer Kate Wallich and her dance company, The YC.
The Collaboration
"The Sun Still Burns Here" is not just an album, but also a live performance that features music, dance, and visual art. According to Hadreas, the collaboration with Wallich started when she reached out to him after seeing one of his concerts. They discussed the possibility of creating a performance that combines their respective art forms, and the result is "The Sun Still Burns Here."
The music on the album is a departure from Perfume Genius's previous work, which was mostly piano-driven and focused on his vocals. "The Sun Still Burns Here" features more experimental sounds, including electronic beats and distorted guitars. The lyrics are also more abstract, as Hadreas wanted to leave room for Wallich's choreography to interpret the songs.
The Performance
The live performance of "The Sun Still Burns Here" is a sensory experience that combines music, dance, and visual art. The YC's dancers move around the stage in a way that complements the music, with movements that are both graceful and intense. The visuals, which include projections of abstract patterns and colors, add another layer of depth to the performance.
Hadreas himself is also a part of the performance, singing and playing guitar on stage. His vocals are often processed with effects, giving them an otherworldly quality that matches the experimental sound of the music.
The Themes
While "The Sun Still Burns Here" is a collaborative work, it also contains themes that are familiar to Perfume Genius's solo work. The album deals with issues such as sexuality, trauma, and healing, all of which are recurrent themes in Hadreas's music. However, the abstract lyrics and experimental sound allow for a more open interpretation of the themes.
The performance also includes elements of ritual and spirituality, with the dancers performing movements that are reminiscent of religious rites. This adds another layer of meaning to the performance, as it explores the connection between the physical and the spiritual.
The Reception
"The Sun Still Burns Here" has received critical acclaim since its release. Critics have praised the collaboration between Hadreas and Wallich, as well as the experimental sound of the music. The live performance has also been well-received, with many reviewers noting the powerful emotional impact of the music and dance.
Overall, "The Sun Still Burns Here" is a unique collaboration that showcases the talents of both Perfume Genius and Kate Wallich. The album and live performance are a sensory experience that explores themes of sexuality, trauma, and healing, while also pushing the boundaries of music and dance.