Friday, May 16, 2008

In Appreciation of the Cover Song





Arguments can be made for what makes a great cover song, but I would suggest that the best kind of cover is one in which a band steps outside of their comfort zone in the selection of the song and they subsequently make it their own. It really speaks to both the quality of the song and the versatility of the band taking on the challenge. Submitted for your approval in this category is "Heart it Races," originally by Australian band Architecture in Helsinki, and covered here by Dr. Dog.

The Architecture version is everything that you might expect from them: upbeat, full of dense instrumentation, and very poppy. Somehow, Dr. Dog, who are typically known for a 60's-ish, harmony-heavy, throwback sound, add their own elements to the song (while keeping most of the endearing qualities of the original record). I was lucky enough to catch both bands live last year, and I'd highly recommend checking them both out, and catching each unique take on this song. You can buy both versions and more on Architecture in Helsinki's Heart it Races EP, available right here.

Mp3: Dr. Dog - Heart it Races
Mp3: Architecture in Helsinki - Heart it Races
Video: Architecture in Helsinki - Heart it Races (you really must check this out)

No comments: