In a world filled with creative musical stylings that produce new tunes (good or bad) every year, the arena of the cover song could seem unnecessary. But in the capable hands of a talented artist there is
always the chance of a song’s evolution to that next level. The vastly different perspective that two artists can absorb from an identical string of verses is mystifying. There can be more passion and more emotion. Or, conversely, there can be less depth and more functionality. The original aim of the song can be skewed and altered completely. But the new message that would emerge from its rebirth can become a more-cherished favorite than the original ever mustered. The way a great cover can make you feel is priceless -- that instant moment of nostalgic recognition can send your mind whirling in new directions. The art of creating a well-done cover is not simple, but when done superbly, it becomes its own entity. Here are some great covers that have been stuck in my brain as of late. Hopefully they will rattle around in yours as well.
Florence + the Machine - Take Care (Drake feat. Rhianna Cover)
So at this point, I’m positive Florence Welch can do no wrong musically. This Drake cover is no exception. It’s a haunting take on an originally dance-friendly song. Florence takes the same elements but creates a desperate plea, whereas the original showcased a conversation. Her strong vocals and background strings take the song on a different path entirely.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9GQJgbGZJU
Listen to the original here.
Punch Brothers - Reptilia (Strokes Cover)
They use a mandolin. In a Strokes song. This carefully crafted rendition of one of the Strokes’ most well-known tunes is riddled with acoustic debauchery, high energy, and a passionate vocal component which is drastically different from the trademark Julian Casablancas sneer. Plus the mandolin is a freaking amazing addition to it. Oh that mandolin…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qayc6yJXG-8
Listen to the original here.
Bon Iver - I Can’t Make you Love me/Nick of Time (Bonnie Raitt cover)
Though a heartbreaking song in general, this one has a desperate twinge to the heartache. This man is literally pleading. And the piano ballad accompaniment is absolutely fantastic. [sniffle] Enjoy this beautiful remake.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3VjaCy5gck
Listen to the original here.
Cee-Lo Green - No One’s Gonna Love You (Band of Horses Cover)
This song was honestly found purely by accident. One day perusing through Spotify, I stumbled across this gem. Cee-Lo and Band of Horses are about as different as two musical tastes could be. But this cover seems to grasp the emotional content as well as adding an uplifting swell of violins to bring hope to the message. Very nicely done.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzAof7HjaxU
Listen to the original here.
Frightened Rabbit - Different Names For the Same Thing (Death Cab for Cutie Cover)
Maybe it’s that Scottish accent, or that earnest guitar that make me appreciate this version tenfold. The fact that it was partly done for a charity organization makes the undertones that much sweeter. This bittersweet rendition differs from the original but gracefully captures the spirit of its predecessor.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3b7pyU6eUzk
Listen to the original here.
