(r e) i n t r o d u c i n g r u f u s

For those who know me, and know me well, you will know that I could not possibly create a blog dedicated to music without beginning with a personal, cherished favourite: Rufus Wainwright. I’ve beat the Rufus-horse to death with some of you, while others may have never heard of him (for shame, for shame). I have been fortunate to see Rufus in concert not so long ago (but long enough that I am anxious for his return) and he is as unique on stage and in person as he is on his albums.

Rufus hails from Montreal and is connected to many famous names. His sister, Martha, is an equally talented artist; his mother, Kate McGarrigle, a noted Canadian folk singer; and his father, Loudon Wainwright III, songwriter, folksinger, actor (you may remember him in recent films such as “Big Fish” and “Elizabethtown”). You can see all three Wainwrights (minus mother Kate) in the film “The Aviator” (please don't hold that against him).

How to sum up Rufus’ music . . . how about a menagerie of unique musical feasts for the ears? Try it . . . you’ll like it. And if you don’t, think of it like eating brussels sprouts: you may dislike the taste at the beginning, but inevitably you know it’s good for you.

Rufus’ notable tracks: “Foolish Love,” “Damned Ladies,” “The Consort,” “Poses,” “One Man Guy,” “Pretty Things,” “Want,” “Dinner at 8,” “Beautiful Child,” “Memphis Skyline,” “Quand Vous Mourez de Nos Amours,” “The One You Love,” “The Art Teacher” (*note: choosing favourites is no easy task). (http://www.rufuswainwright.com)

Martha’s notable tracks: “When the Day is Short,” “BMFA,” “Factory,” “Ball and Chain” (http://www.marthawainwright.com/).