Nov 102010
 

Live Collection brings together every live cover we can find from an artist. And we find a lot.

The recent release of Easy Wonderful has given Guster fans reason to fall in love with them all over again. As their album title insinuates, they have an agreeable sound that resonates with you and has aged well over the past (almost) 20 years. If the Beach Boys went to college in the 90’s, added some bongos, and stayed out of the sun, Guster is what they would sound like.

Featured on soundtracks like Life as a House and Wedding Crashers, their songs can pull at the heartstrings as you croon along with them. On the other hand, they are better known for their laid-back, wisecracking personalities that beam from the stage and infect their fans. During their years of touring, they have taken on many cover songs with both their sensitive and playful dispositions (but mostly the latter). Typically at the end of a show, Guster will rile up the crowd with a number from Madonna, Talking Heads, or whoever sings the “Cheers” theme song (Portnoy) and get everyone involved.  Most of the time, it’s just an excuse to get drummer Brian Rosenworcel out in front showing off his questionable vocals, calling in the crowd for backup.  It’s just like being at a karaoke bar. Continue reading »

Aug 122010
 

In the Spotlight showcases a cross-section of an artist’s cover work. View past installments, then post suggestions for future picks in the comments!

My Morning Jacket made a name for themselves through epic live shows. Stretching on for up to three hours, the band’s sets don’t skimp on the covers. Their Bonnaroo sets are particularly legendary; their 2008 late night set explored funk with songs by Sly & the Family Stone, Funkadelic, James Brown, Kool & the Gang, Bobby Womack, The Velvet Underground, and Mötley Crüe. More recently they covered John Prine for a new tribute album (download it here).

“We’re trying to find amazing songs that people don’t really listen to anymore, who would hear them and go, ‘Oh, my god — why haven’t I listened to this forever?” drummer Patrick Hallahan told Spinner about what songs they select to cover. “They have to be out of rotation for a little while before we pick them up.”

In this installment of In the Spotlight we look at five of their best. The range spans from Americana to new wave, obvious choices like The Band mixed in with more surprising ones like Berlin. Some get performed for years while others only come out once or twice. The band plays a monster New York City stand in October, performing each of their albums for charity. Hopefully they’ll find time for a cover or two. Continue reading »