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is a standout track from the American Psycho Original London Cast Recording , composed by Duncan Sheik with lyrics that capture the chilling narcissism of Patrick Bateman . Featuring a brooding baritone performance by Matt Smith , the song serves as a psychological anchor for the musical, which originally premiered at London's Almeida Theatre in 2013. A Study in Psychopathy
The song appears during a pivotal scene where Bateman hires two sex workers, Christine and Sabrina. Rather than focusing on a traditional narrative, "Not A Common Man" explores Bateman's deep-seated need for superiority and his detachment from human emotion. American Psycho - London Cast Recording: Not A Common Man
: In the show, the song highlights Bateman's antisocial and sadistic inclinations as he pays the two women to engage in violent, choreographed acts. is a standout track from the American Psycho
While the song is a cornerstone of the character's development, its journey to the cast recording was unique: Rather than focusing on a traditional narrative, "Not
: Consistent with Sheik's "sleek tragedy" approach, the track features driving synth-pop beats that mirror the hollow, high-fashion aesthetic of 1980s Manhattan.
: The London Cast Recording, released in 2016 via Concord Records , has gained a cult following. It remains the primary way for fans to experience this specific version, as the Broadway production (starring Benjamin Walker) was never officially recorded.
: Critics have noted that Matt Smith's performance in this track allows the audience a rare, unsettling glimpse behind Bateman’s "plasticine gaze," making the character briefly empathetic through his sheer, intense desperation to be perceived as exceptional. Production History and Evolution