Albums Of The Week: Lady Gaga | Harlequin
Affectionately referred to as LG6.5, Harlequin delves into the intricate emotions of a woman who flourishes in turmoil—a genre-blending artist who defies categorization. Just like Lady Gaga and Harley herself, this album is unpredictable, showcasing a range of contrasts and a fearless spirit. It's particularly significant as Gaga's first jazz-influenced work following the loss of her collaborator and friend Tony Bennett. This album marks a progression in updating classic standards for today’s audience, as if these timeless pieces were revitalized through the influence of all the music that has come after them. Gaga revitalizes these cherished songs, merging her profound passion for jazz with a cutting-edge style that pays tribute to the past while exploring new artistic avenues.
Harlequin stands out because it seamlessly blends various musical genres, drawing inspiration from whatever feels appropriate in the moment. This album brings a fresh perspective to classic pop, drawing from the rich diversity of American music, particularly blues and early styles. For instance, a song like "World On A String" might be labeled as jazz now, but when Bennett first introduced it, it was just considered pop. That's the essence of Harlequin — an album that resists categorization and captures the heart of American music.
This album embodies a true artistic spirit, reminiscent of an era when musicians crafted the records they genuinely wanted to create. It's designed to be enjoyed in one sitting, from start to finish. Spanning genres like jazz, punk, funk, and blues, Harlequin showcases fresh and original song arrangements that capture the lively chaos and emotional richness of the character. Timeless pieces such as "Good Morning" and "Get Happy" (2024) are reinterpreted with new lyrics that highlight Harley’s rebellious attitude. Meanwhile, songs like "Oh, When The Saints" and "World On A String" gain new significance through quirky, energetic renditions that embody her wild and free-spirited persona.
The album includes new takes on "If My Friends Could See Me Now" and "That’s Entertainment," showcasing a striking difference in vocal styles that highlight Harley’s playful nature. "Smile" is reimagined as a haunting anthem that explores themes of self-awareness and irony, while "The Joker" delves into Harley’s relationship with the notorious villain, offering listeners a peek into their complex and darkly significant connection.
Original tracks such as "Happy Mistake" and "Folie À Deux" are the heart of the album, blending genuine vulnerability with an energetic chaos that illustrates a woman's battle with her identity and her slide into madness. In memorable songs like "Gonna Build A Mountain" and "That’s Life," the album shifts to a more introspective vibe, highlighting Harley’s strength, determination, and her knack for reinventing herself despite challenges. The touching and whimsical "Close To You" provides a brief pause for reflection amid the album's emotional peaks and valleys.
Harlequin was composed, performed, and recorded in Malibu and the renowned Palms studio in Las Vegas as Gaga wrapped up her Jazz & Piano residency in the summer of 2024. Teaming up with Polansky, Gaga assembled a carefully selected group of top-notch musicians, collaborators, and arrangers to create an album that embodies the essence of Harley in every single note. Gaga co-produced all the tracks alongside her long-time collaborator Benjamin Rice. From soulful ballads accompanied by surf guitar to powerful anthems driven by the pounding of war drums and the clamor of metal cans, each track is filled with vibrant energy and deep emotion.
Harlequin is an album that pays tribute to a character as multifaceted and intriguing as the woman who inspired it. It honors a figure drawn to risk, someone who revels in the unknown and fully embraces the captivating disorder of her dreams. This is a side of Gaga you've never experienced before. Welcome to Harlequin.
