POP MUSIC REVIEW : Pussy Tourette: Out of the Underground

Pussy Tourette has emerged from San Francisco’s underground cabaret scene to become one of the most heralded men in lipstick around, and Wednesday the singer appeared in two very different L.A. settings. Both performances showed why he’s been collecting rave reviews in the Bay Area.

In an odd match-up at Glam Slam, Tourette was part of a benefit show featuring what were supposed to be 12 of the nation’s top unsigned bands, but in fact included some of the worst rock groups since Winger bit the dust.

Tourette sauntered onto the half-lit stage to lustful howls from the guys in the audience, who soon sank into confused silence when the lights came up to reveal an obviously male singer in stiletto heels and polka-dot shorts and top.

Kicking and gyrating, Tourette crooned clever double-entendres in a lounge-style blues drawl, while two ‘40s-style back-up singers complemented his deep tones and choreography with high harmonies and moves of their own. Tourette’s lyrics are sung from a specifically gay perspective, but by the end of his short set he had won over this mainstream audience with his charming personality and a genuine charisma.

In a later show at the Plush club in Silver Lake, a more in-sync audience geared up for some saucy cabaret saw Tourette in his element. This performance became more improvisational and relaxed, allowing for even more steamy humor and moves.