A selection of new and/or relevant cover tracks that have recently left an impression on us! Check out the full playlist here.
Naima Bock – “So Long, Marianne“
Naima Bock‘s rendition of Leonard Cohen‘s “So Long, Marianne” delicately balances homage to the original with folk eccentricities. Recorded live with her band, she integrates saxophone and violin disruptions into Cohen’s timeless classic. Initially restrained, Bock‘s vocals eventually soar in the ensemble’s harmonious imperfections. The altered lyric, changing ‘Violet Park‘ to ‘Fordham Park,’ pays homage to a personal connection, adding an extra layer of emotional depth. Bock‘s embrace of imperfection resonates authentically, echoing Cohen‘s legacy.
Slothrust – “Pony”
Slothrust fearlessly tackle the ambitious task of reimagining Ginuwine‘s 90s R&B classic, “Pony.” Renowned for their hard-rock prowess, the LA-based duo morph the sultry gem into a distortion-laden anthem. Frontwoman Leah Wellbaum navigates Ginuwine‘s overtly sensuous lyrics with a deadpan intensity, steering the original into uncharted rock territory. This audacious cover, featured on their EP “I Promise,” showcases the band’s knack for making a hugely familiar hit entirely their own. In the end, we are left with a celebration of Slothrust‘s unique sound and bucket loads of 90s nostalgia.
The Beths – “Brand New Colony” (with Pickle Darling)
In a serendipitous collision of indie powerhouses, The Beths pay homage to The Postal Service‘s iconic “Give Up” on the 20th anniversary. Having been on tour with Death Cab for Cutie and The Postal Service, The Beths, accompanied by Pickle Darling, deliver a wholesome folk-rock rendition of “Brand New Colony.” The cover, unveiled on a Sub Pop Records 7″ vinyl, showcases the unmistakable charm of Liz Stokes‘ vocals and Pickle Darling‘s effortlessly sweet arrangement. A surprise collaboration that elevates the original’s 8-bit charm into a melodious duet, this musical rendezvous feels like a match made in indie heaven. Be sure to check out our review of The Beths‘ brilliant 2022 album “Expert In A Dying Field“
Moby – “We’re Going Wrong”
Moby takes us on a downtempo journey with this mesmerizing cover of Cream‘s 1967 psych slow jam, “We’re Going Wrong.” Featuring the ethereal vocals of Brie O’Banion, the track embodies a plaintive beauty that resonates with the current moment. Moby‘s rendition, born from a vinyl rediscovery, transcends genres, paying homage to the original as well as the vibrant underground dance scene of ’80s New York. The accompanying animated video, addresses the dark side of the meat and dairy industry, staying true to the artist’s longstanding raison d’etre. “We’re Going Wrong” reflects a continued commitment to emotion and atmospheric resonance.
Della Mae – “Ohio”
Dipping our toes into the Bluegrass waters isn’t a regular affair here at Cougar Microbes, but when a track like Della Mae‘s rendition of “Ohio” comes along, you throw genre distinctions to the wind. This Grammy-nominated, all-female string band takes Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young‘s protest anthem and turns it into their thing. The fiddle adds an extra layer, weaving through the arrangement, and elevating the entire listening experience while Celia Woodsmith emphatically delivers the vocals. Every bit as sombre as the original, Della Mae don’t just pay homage; they inject new life into the counterculture classic.
