No, not album covers, Nicole did that last week, and I'm not that desperate for ideas, I'm talking about cover songs. Like you, I could deal without the myriad of awful attempts at other people's songs, but every so often I hear a cover that's just brilliant. Here are five that I particularly enjoy.
5). Talking Heads - "Take Me to the River"
This song, originally recorded by Al Green, probably did a better job of showing off Talking Head's range than they ever could have imagined. I mean, its one thing to be labeled as a art-punk band with a funky side, its another thing entirely to cover a legend and pull it off.
4). The Pixies - "Head On"
This cover is pretty straightforward, but the Pixies one-up Jesus and Mary Chain by turning up the volume and intensity. Thankfully Frank Black drops the faux, Billy Idol-esque vocal styling too.
3). TV on the Radio - "Mr. Grieves"
Speaking of the Pixies, here's TV on the Radio doing an a cappella version of "Mr. Grieves." Taken from the Young Liars EP, TV on the Radio wasted absolutely no time in showing the world exactly what they were capable of doing.
2). David Bowie - "Wild Is the Wind"
Originally written by Dimitri Tiompkin and Ned Washington and performed by Johnny Mathis for the 1957 film of the same name. It was later covered by Nina Simone, and then David Bowie, who was inspired to record this song after meeting her. One of Bowie's most passionate and sensual performances.
1). Smashing Pumpkins - "Landslide"
I'm not sure we can have a discussion about covers without mentioning this song. Stevie Nicks may have performed the original, but after hearing Billy Corgan put his heart and soul into this song - something even Stevie Nicks couldn't be bothered with - I've decided the song may as well be his.
But don't take my word for anything, listen for yourself.
How do these stack up? Were you expecting Feist, Yo La Tengo, or the Beatles? Elliot Smith covering the Beatles? I'm curious, what's your top 5 covers?
Showing posts with label cover songs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cover songs. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Top Five Tuesday:
Covers
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