26 Sep 2012 No Comments
Under the Covers
Very rarely do I come across a cover song that does the original justice. In fact, there are many songs that I feel should be off-limits. But every now and then, I am pleasantly surprised… here are a few covers that I have been enjoying lately.
Obadiah Parker translates Outkast‘s pop chart topper “Hey Ya” into an acoustic melody you would expect to hear in a local coffee shop. Parker has artfully found a way to incorporate the emotion warranted by lyrics such as “thank god for mom and dad for sticking two together ’cause we don’t know how”. His inflection and approach add an unexpected dimension to this song.
The highly synthesized single “Such Great Heights” of The Postal Service turns romantic yet melancholy with Iron & Wine‘s stripped down interpretation.
Kelly Dalton‘s version of “I’m On Fire” effortlessly contemporizes Bruce Springsteen’s 1980s hit with rolling arpeggios and a laid-back tone.
Two of my favorite bands have covered “She Said, She Said”. Gov’t Mule pushes The Beatles song into powerhouse territory with forceful vocals from Warren Haynes, strong guitar riffs and a driving drum beat. While the Ohio duo of The Black Keys make the song their own with their signature blues sound.
Bonus Track: John Legend and The Roots teamed up for the socially conscious album “Wake Up!” One of the most moving songs on this record is a cover of “I Can’t Write Left Handed” which reminds us that the perils of war are not restricted by time. This song is just as powerful for today’s circumstances as it was for Bill Wither’s audience.
