As always, Gregor Kitzis' world-class violin serves as lead guitar. The songs all sound pretty much the same - mid-tempo jazz-pop with strings and well-sung lyrics about the pain of lost love and jealousy. (At this point, out of sheer laziness I leave you to enjoy the track samples rather than list highlights. The songs do share a similar sound, in keeping with a theme album.) Voltaire doesn't deny that heartache sucks; he just treats it with bone-dry wit and humor.

The interplay of violin and brush-snare percussion gives "Boo Hoo" that NYC jazz flavor that every film school student craves like menthols. The beats don't rock quite as hard as on the prior "Almost Human," but Voltaire's other traits remain strong. (Curse those women folk / Goth kids need to lighten up / laughter is good medicine, but hemlock is better) As on all his albums, the violin has a 19th-century Kurt Weill appeal.

"Boo Hoo" is similar enough to Voltaire's earlier works that if you like this one, get 'em all. The world needs humorous tales of dark behavior with gypsy violin and Vegas-smooth vocals. This band should have been on Conan O'Brien twice by now.


Loosen your corset lacings...   December 8, 2005
 4 out of 4 found this review helpful

In a world full of gloom and doom it's nice to emit a laugh every once in a while, though one's corset doesn't allow much room for an extra breath...

Every Voltaire song is crafted carefully; a violin and that dreamy voice interwoven with perfection... his songs aren't accompanied with harsh instruments and disorienting vocals, rather the songs are a lush mixture that can turn the corners of even the blackest smile.

And there is truth in what he sings. He can make you understand the hurt of heartbreak and betrayal while singing along merrily, oblivious to the pain.

Most goths these days take themselves too seriously, and forget that a sense of humour is *vital*. Voltaire reminds us, with only little melodies that will get stuck in your head for *days*.

When asked, shyly smile and bat your lashes. Being pretentious is never without it's luxeries.


It will grow on you   August 28, 2005
 3 out of 3 found this review helpful

Well, what can be said of Voltaire? Surely your looking at this because you've already heard some of his music. If you are someone who is obsessed with Slipknot, or KoRn, Then i suggest you to pass on this one. This is not the goth that most people would think of. He's got a great since of humor. Actually i was introduced to his music thanks to the Unquiet Grave vol. 3 compilation album. Then i downloaded some of his other songs, i will not lie, it took time to grow on me. It was definatly not something i liked from the beginning, I didn't hate it nor did i like it. Anyway, this music is calming and for the most part quiet and soothing. If you can handle a few beheadings and brain sucking comets that is.