Even if you don’t realise it, you will definitely recognise the tune to ‘Mack The Knife’ when you hear it. It’s one of the true standards of pop and jazz, even finding its way into a McDonald’s commercial a decade or so back. The incomparable Ute Lemper takes the classic track and gives it a modern twist, informed by contemporary trends and current events.
‘Mack The Knife’, composed by Kurt Weill, with lyrics by BertoIt Brecht, aims a broadside against the powers that be, while taking a wry look at corruption, while offering up a warning shot towards the rich and powerful. Originally a part of their ‘The Threepenny Opera’ musical, a critique of manners and money-worship, it’s still as relevant as it was when it was first performed in 1928. Now, in the hands of Ute Lemper, it’s been refreshed for a 21st century audience.
This new version of ‘Mack The Knife’ serves as the introductory track on Lemper’s new album, ‘Pirate Jenny’, a tribute to the music of Kurt Weill, while also including plenty of Bertold Brecht’s words. Lemper dazzles her audience with her musical daring and interpretive singing, her take on ‘Mack The Knife’ reconstructing the song’s harmonies while introducing a beat that is informed by trip-hop and experimental pop. Lemper takes on the character of Macheath, emphasising his amorality, restlessness, and bloodlust. The accompanying music video, directed by Ute herself, sees her take on the role of the killer, flitting across New York City late at night, wearing reflective sunglasses. Her mission, as she slinks past the banks, and the police cars, is one of chilling vengeance. Clips from Ute’s celebrated performance of ‘Bouffes Du Nord’ are scattered throughout the video, serving as a reminder of her history, and showing viewers that there’s plenty more to come.
Catch the magnificence of ‘Mack The Knife’ below, and find out more about Ute Lemper and her music online on her official website, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
