Goodbye Horses: The Many Lives of Q Lazzarus

Goodbye Horses: The Many Lives of Q Lazzarus (Music From the Motion Picture) is a compelling compilation that delves into the enigmatic life and diverse musical talents of Diane Luckey, known professionally as Q Lazzarus. Released in conjunction with the documentary of the same name, this album offers a comprehensive look into Luckey’s artistic journey, featuring a collection of previously unreleased tracks recorded between 1985 and 1995.

The album opens with a “new wave version” of the titular track Goodbye Horses, presenting a raw and extended rendition that differs from the familiar version popularized by its inclusion in Jonathan Demme’s films, notably The Silence of the Lambs. This version, characterized by a stark, steady dance beat and Luckey’s powerful vocals, sets the tone for the compilation, highlighting her ability to infuse profound emotion into her music.

Throughout the album, listeners are introduced to the breadth of Luckey’s musical versatility. Tracks like Heaven, a cover of the Talking Heads song, showcase her textured vocal delivery, while A Fool’s Life and Summertime reflect her exploration into new wave and dub genres, respectively. These songs not only demonstrate her adaptability across various musical styles but also her capacity to imbue each genre with her unique artistic identity.

The compilation also features tracks such as My Mistake, a bubbly house track led by the digital sheen of a Korg M1 synthesizer, and Flesh for Sale, which ventures into glam metal territory. These songs underscore Luckey’s fearless experimentation and her refusal to be confined to a single musical genre. Her dynamic vocal range and emotive delivery serve as the unifying thread throughout the album, providing cohesion amidst the stylistic diversity.

Goodbye Horses: The Many Lives of Q Lazzarus not only celebrates the legacy of a cult icon but also brings to light the rich tapestry of her musical endeavors that remained largely unheard during her lifetime. This compilation serves as a testament to Luckey’s artistic resilience and offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the multifaceted talents of Q Lazzarus.