"Simple Man" is the second album by German countertenor Klaus Nomi, released on November 23, 1982. It was his last album of original material before his death. The album blends various genres, including opera, pop, art rock, new wave, and disco, with Nomi’s classical opera influences.
The album includes a mix of eclectic tracks, such as opera pieces by John Dowland and Henry Purcell, as well as pop and disco songs like "Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead" and "Falling in Love Again". The pop rock tracks "After the Fall" and "Simple Man" were written by Kristian Hoffman, Nomi’s former musical collaborator. Other notable tracks include the synth-pop disco song "ICUROK", the country-influenced "Rubberband Lazer", and a new wave version of "Three Wishes".
The album also features Nomi's classical vocal abilities, particularly in "Wayward Sisters" and "Death" from Purcell's Dido and Aeneas. The opening and closing tracks, "From Beyond"and "Return", are based on a Renaissance choral piece by Dowland, showcasing Nomi’s countertenor voice over atmospheric synthesizers.
Simple Man showcases Nomi’s unique fusion of genres and his powerful voice, cementing his distinctive place in both the opera and avant-garde music scenes.
