Max Raabe developed an interest in the sound of German dance and film music of the 1920s and 1930s, such as the songs of the Comedian Harmonists, from seeing old films on television and from his parents' record collection.

He formally studied music at the Berlin University of the Arts, intending originally to become a baritone opera singer. He and eleven other students formed the Palast Orchester in 1985. Indeed, the ensemble initially used music arrangements that Raabe found whilst shopping at various flea markets!

How times have changed as with the release of Max Raabe & Palast Orchester's delightful Eine Nacht in Berlin we get to see Raabe as a true musical intermediary, bridging worlds, and transporting 1920s glamor to the present day. Opening his show, which also comes on DVD (which is a rather nice touch), with the off-beat humor of the overture known as 'Ich Bin Nur Gut, Wenn Keiner Guckt' (I'm only good if nobody's watching), the seed is sown for the forthcoming hour or more.

If you haven't figured it out by now, Max Raabe & Palast Orchester's Eine Nacht in Berlin is actually a movie where the inimitable Max Raabe invites his fans and growing audience around the globe for a very special "Night in Berlin." In this movie Max presents a gorgeous selection of greatest hits from his last gold and platinum-selling albums in new arrangements for the Palast Orchester.

Recorded live at Admiralspalast in Berlin-Friedrichstrasse, which has to be noted as being just the most perfect setting which lives and breathes the flair and panache of Berlin during the 20's and early 30's, Eine Nacht in Berlin's musical accompaniment (ie: this CD) is chock full of bewitching goodness.

Always the most iconic German/Berlin celebrity, especially through his award-winning collaborations with Annette Humpe - the popular German singer, songwriter and producer - Max Raabe combines pop-star appeal with nostalgic flair, a good dose of self-irony and dry comic features. All musically entwined for the benefit of those of us who cannot attend any of his shows.

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