Covers of favorite songs can breathe new life into a familiar work. In some cases, they even become the standard – think Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” (originally recorded by Otis Redding) or “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones (originally written & recorded by Gram Parsons). However, the best cover songs, take on a whole new meaning,… Read more »
From the Music Archives
In Remembrance of John Prine
What is there left to say about John Prine that hasn’t already been said – besides, we’re sure gonna miss him. Hope he’s up there enjoying that nine-mile long cigarette this morning. Thanks for everything John.
Love Vigilantes
I’ve been grounded by a gnarly cold into a lo-fi folk funk these past few days. Among such tunes I’ve found to console the high-pressure system inside my head, is Iron & Wine’s Love Vigilantes, (which I later learned to be a New Order cover). For whatever reason, the song has since grabbed me and… Read more »
These Days
“These Days” is an example of the beautiful contrast which every artist tries to render through their work. It’s at the same time simple but profound, peaceful yet haunted. In a first listen, the song appears to be a casual reflection of a life well lived, taking place perhaps on a porch over a glass… Read more »
Just Be Simple
I ain’t looking for that easy way out this whole life has been about try and try and try and try and try and try to be simple again Jason Molina & Magnolia Electric Company
To Be Frank, I’m Fried
Ears are still ringing and mind is still foggy from last night’s Kurt Vile show at the Urban Lounge. School night, or not, it was totally worth it.
Merle on Willie on Doing What You Love
Willie has some wisdom about that. He says, “Do what you want to do. In case somebody likes it, then you have to go do it again.” In other words, Sturgill’s doing what he wants to do. That’s the most important thing. No advice from this corner. I’m a fan. I want to see what… Read more »
Martin Luther King Jr Day 2016
Sam Cooke’s A Change is Going to Come remains one of the most powerful songs of all time. For myself, it’s near impossible to hear without goosebumps. Those opening vocals…
Ananda Shankar – Jumping Jack Flash from Master of None Episode 4
I’ve been hooked on Aziz Ansari’s original series Master of None. It’s excellent for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the show’s fresh take on the opening title sequence. Episode 4 titled “Indians on TV” turned me on to the above cover of Jumping Jack Flash by Ananda Shankar. More from… Read more »
Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy on His Pricing Structure
I’ve had Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy’s, Beware in my collection for a while now, however until last night I had yet to give it a proper listen. While listening, I started reading various interviews with Oldham and the following excerpt from an article published in the New Yorker stood out. Parsons wanted to know how much… Read more »