"Big Band Explosion" is the tenth solo album by German singer Nina Hagen. Released in 2003, the album features Hagen performing big band renditions of her earlier punk songs, as well as classic big band staples.
Nina Hagen is internationally recognized as the 'Mother of Punk' and is known for her theatrical performances which combine several genres including punk rock, pop, and opera. She has been a significant figure in the music industry since the 1970s and this album is a testament to her versatility and creativity.
"Big Band Explosion" was recorded live at the Leipzig Gewandhaus with the Leipzig Big Band, a prestigious and renowned big band orchestra based in Leipzig, Germany. The album offers a blend of Nina's punk vocals with the smooth and rhythmic sound of the big band, taking her music to another level and transitioning her from punk rock to a new artistic expression with grace and style.
The track listing includes reinterpretations of her own songs like "Unbeschreiblich weiblich" and "TV-Glotzer", which were elevated musically by the Big Band. In addition, the album also includes some pure jazz standards like "Let me entertain you" and "Sugar Blues", displaying her wide range of vocal abilities.
Critically, "Big Band Explosion" was well-received for its ingenuity, Nina Hagen's adaptability, and the seamless fusion of punk rock with classic big band jazz. It showcases Hagen's artistic evolution and eclectic musical taste, while also paying homage to big band music in a truly unique way.
