Having dispatched the Judy Garland tribute shows, it is back to Wainwright’s favourite topic – himself. This is a record of extremes, with more restraint than ever before. The utterly gorgeous I’m Not Ready for Love is vulnerable country by way of Patsy Cline, Tiergarden layers doo-wop, South Pacific and brushed strings without disturbing the tranquillity, and Between My Legs shows that Wainwright can front something rockier, though the song is suddenly overrun by a galloping orchestra and Shakespearean commentary from the actress Sian Phillips. The similarly endowed Tulsa and the title track border on overkill, but there really is no one else alive who can pull off this supreme level of pop-opera.

(Geffen)

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