The Buzz Around Lady Gaga’s “Harlequin”: A Jazzy Journey
Lady Gaga is back in the spotlight with her latest album, “Harlequin,” and let me tell you, it kicks off with a delightful nod to vintage Hollywood with the jazzy classic “Good Morning.” It’s a fresh and exciting start that sets the tone for what’s to come, but there’s more than meets the eye. This album has deep roots in the vibrant nightlife of Las Vegas, where a slew of talented musicians came together to create something truly special.
Las Vegas: The Heart of the Sound
This past June and July, Gaga's backing band teamed up with over 20 incredible musicians and singers from the Vegas scene at the iconic Studio at the Palms. The mastermind behind the musical magic was none other than Gaga’s bandleader, Brian Newman. With a stellar lineup that includes Alex Smith on keys, Steve Kortyka on saxophone, Daniel Foose on bass, and Donald Barrett on drums, the group was primed for success.
Newman and Foose are not just names on a roster; they have been in high demand, regularly performing at Bruno Mars’ The Pinky Ring at Bellagio. Joining this powerhouse team is the wildly talented guitarist Tim Stewart, a familiar face at Dolby Live and the NoMad Library. It’s this blend of seasoned musicians that brings a rich, layered sound to “Harlequin.”
The Production Team Behind the Magic
Teaming up with Gaga in the studio was Grammy-winning producer Ben Rice, known for his work on the “A Star Is Born” soundtrack. The collaborative spirit between them is palpable, as Newman shared in a recent phone chat from New York, “I can’t say enough about what a fun record this was to make. It was amazing. I hate to use the word ‘organic,’ but it all came together very naturally.”
The dynamic energy in the studio was electric, fueled by the talent and creativity of the musicians involved. Most of the Vegas players on “Harlequin” were part of Gaga’s “Jazz + Piano” orchestra at Dolby Live, creating a seamless transition between the stages of the city and the studio. They worked together, alternating sessions at the Palms while performing live shows, particularly at Newman’s “After Dark” at the NoMad Library.
A Star-Studded Cast of Musicians
The album features an impressive lineup of local talent. Players who contributed include violinists Lauren Cordell and Rahmaan Philip, violists Tianna Heppner and John Pollock, cellist Moonlight Tran, and a brass section featuring trumpeters Danny Falcone, Gil Kaupp, and Jason Levi, alongside trombonists Curt Miller, Nathan Tanouye, and Isrea L. Butler. On saxophone, you’ll hear Rob Mader, Eric Tewalt, Rick Keller, and Adam Schroeder lending their voices to the mix.
Beyond the “Jazz + Piano” cast, the album also boasts contributions from violinist Rebecca Sabine, trombonists David Phillippus and Kirby Galbraith, and trumpet player Tom DeLibero, making it a melting pot of creativity.
Tracks to Get Excited About
Among the standout tracks are “Get Happy,” “That’s Entertainment,” “Folie à Deux” (an original from Gaga herself), and “Close to You.” The contribution of Vegas vocalists Skye Dee Miles and Jon Morgan as backing singers on “Folie à Deux” adds a rich depth to the track, enhanced further by the powerful voices of the Love Community Choir.
Newman’s collaboration with Miles was serendipitous. He recalled asking her to bring the choir in after they had a late-night jam session at “After Dark.” “I just thought then, ‘We need these voices,’” he said. This spontaneous, collaborative spirit was a hallmark of the album’s creation, especially when it came to Gaga’s intuitive songwriting process.
The Creative Process: Fast and Fluid
When it comes to Gaga, she has an uncanny ability to envision her songs almost instinctively. “We had a lot of the songs and the titles; she would come in with ideas, and we would just work it out from there,” Newman explained. Having worked with Gaga for over a decade, he’s witnessed her brilliance firsthand. “She’s just amazing at that kind of stuff, which you hear on the album,” he adds.
This process is what makes “Harlequin” feel so alive. Each song carries the energy of the live performances they were born from, as if the essence of Vegas itself is woven into the fabric of the music.
A Legacy of Musical History
The Studio at the Palms has a rich history, dating back to the hotel’s opening with the Fantasy Tower in 2005. Over the years, a myriad of recording stars, including Beyoncé, Maroon 5, Eminem, and Michael Jackson, have graced its studios. These sessions were historically overseen by Zoe Thrall, who made a name for herself as the director of the studio before moving on to The Hideout Studios in Henderson.
You might recognize Thrall from the recent documentary “Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple,” released in June, where she appears as a featured artist. Having worked with Van Zandt for 11 years, Thrall has cemented her reputation as a musician and engineer, showcasing her talent in the studio and on tour. Few can rock the oboe as fiercely as she does!
What’s New in Vegas
As the music scene in Vegas continues to evolve, exciting events are on the horizon. David Spade and Nikki Glaser are making their comedic mark, returning to The Venetian Theatre for six dates in 2025. Fans can catch them on March 21-22, May 16-17, and September 5-6, with tickets available at Ticketmaster and the Venetian’s box offices.
This resurgence comes after the closure of The Mirage and its Aces of Comedy series, but good news is in store as the brand reportedly reopens at the Palazzo Theater, alternating with Shin Lim’s new show next year.
Carrying On in the Face of Challenges
In the spirit of perseverance, classic rock outfit Kansas faced a hiccup, canceling their performance at Reynolds Hall at the Smith Center just hours before showtime as part of their 50th-anniversary tour. The Smith Center cited “multiple factors” for the cancellation, avoiding the usual vague phrases like “unforeseen circumstances” or “scheduling conflicts.” Unfortunately, there’s no word yet on when Kansas will return to the stage.
Cool Hang Alert
If you’re in the mood for a more intimate musical experience, don’t miss the great singer-songwriter Michael Grimm, performing at the Dispensary Lounge on East Tropicana Ave. from 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday. Backed by talented musicians Jimmy Tripi on guitar and Bill Zappia on keys, Grimm’s set promises musical virtuosity, and Zappia brings some witty stage banter to keep the audience entertained. There’s no cover charge, but there is a two-drink minimum, so come thirsty! Check out TheDispensaryLounge.com for more info.
In Conclusion
Lady Gaga’s “Harlequin” is more than just an album; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from the rich musical culture of Las Vegas. With a star-studded cast of musicians, a collaborative creative process, and the legacy of the Studio at the Palms, this project encapsulates the energy and excitement of a city that thrives on creativity. So grab your headphones, dive into the music, and get ready to be swept away by the jazzy vibes of Lady Gaga’s latest masterpiece!
Login