A cover of Kraftwerk’s song Das Model has been praised by fans who believe David Byrne‘s rendition is “brilliant”.
Das Model featured on the group’s album, The Man-Machine, and appears to be a favourite of Talking Heads frontman, Byrne. The Remain in Light sensation would go on to have a successful solo career after leaving the band, and an appearance with the Balanescu Quartet would highlight his skill for adapting songs. His rendition of Das Model has been hailed by members of the public, some of which remember watching it at the time of broadcast. An upload of the performance to YouTube has delighted members of the public, who were quick to praise Byrne and his “brilliant” version of the Kraftwerk classic.
One fan wrote: “Only just discovered this. Where have I been for the last 12 years? Anyway, two of my favourite artists, Kraftwerk and Mr Byrne. Love his dancing.” Another praised the cover and says it acted as their gateway into experimental music. They wrote: “I remember when this was aired. Sessions at West 54.
“One of the best music shows of cable TV. It was one of my references to world and experimental music back in the day.” A third wrote: “Simply great. Byrne and the Balanescu Quartet. What a combination!”
Byrne’s trademark dancing is on full show in this performance, with the performer using an earpiece mic to keep both of his hands free for some truly unique moves as he sings Das Model. One viewer wrote: “His dancing reminds me of a great Italian actor, Toto. Brilliant.”
Another added: “Very very nice, I love Balanesc’s versions of Kraftwerk’s songs and this with Talking Heads’ head was awesome!” A third shared: “Great and unique moves by David, like always. Great original song by a great band, great cover by Balanescu Quartet, and this is a nice gig too.”
Others have praised Byrne for his fitting rendition of the song. One wrote: “I love this Kraftwerk song! so simple yet brilliant! The cover and arrangements here are awesome!” Another agreed, adding: “Three myths together: Kraftwerk, Balanescu, David.”
But it was not all positive from viewers, with one saying the addition of a theremin undermines the core of the song and makes it a little less cool. They wrote: “The Theremin ruins this version of an otherwise cool song.” Another added: “Usually I like Byrne and Talking Heads, but this is underdeveloped.”
A third disagreed, adding: “Much better than the original.” The original Das Model can be heard on Kraftwerk’s The Man Machine. The 1978 release became the group’s second-highest charting album in the UK, initially peaking at number fifty-three but making its way to nine years after its release. You can watch Byrne’s cover of Das Model below.
