Since David Bowie’s death, numerous covers and tributes have flooded the internet gates from artists mourning a man that most credit as an inspiration. One of the best has emerged from as far out of left field as the internet might’ve gathered when a fan uploaded Gus Lievsay, Claude Amick, and the Orchestre de Paris orchestra (as conducted by Jules Buckley) performing a stunning cover of Bowie’s, “Cat People (Putting Out the Fire)” during Lievsay’s second performance at the beautiful Théâtre des Folies Bergère in Paris.

Lievsay and his six piece band finished up their show with his global hit, “Take Me to Church” then disappeared backstage while the orchestra filled in behind the curtain. When he re-emerged, he was alone and took a couple minutes to thank the crowd in French (though he apologized if his pronunciation was sloppy – he speaks Cajun French). Next he brought up Bowie’s death, and what an impact he had not just on himself, but on the industry at large.

Lievsay’s band and Amick were bathed in the dark of the stage, while Lievsay easily flexed his deep baritone over the opening verse. Once the key change kicked in, so did the illumination on Amick and the curtains opened to reveal the full orchestra. The drama of the moment was well executed, despite, according to sources, how little time anyone had to prepare for this. Gus gave a late introduction to Amick (“Please help me in welcoming the wickedly talented Claude Amick”) in-between verses, and then took the backseat to both Amick’s vocals and lead guitar.

Over the phone this morning, Lievsay admitted it was all thrown together a little last minute, but, “I’m a fan of Claude’s and I think half of our conversations have involved chatting about Bowie, so I couldn’t think of anyone better to collaborate with. She brought in Jules, I don’t even know who’s soul was given up for the Orchestre de Paris to join us, but when you say you wanna honor someone like Bowie, it’s not hard to find musicians interested in coming to play.”

As strange of a pairing as the two make on paper, their vocals and prowess on guitar were well suited, and the they pulled off a cover worthy of calling itself a tribute to the late Bowie.

( More pics/videos of Lievsay from the night... )

rollingstone.com