Search - Steel Train :: 1969 (Dig)

Respect for the initial artist is accomplished

Eli Taylor | Portland, OR USA | 11/21/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Steel Train introduced themselves to the world with the beautiful and haunting EP, "For You My Dear." Now they return with 6 eclectic covers all from the year 1969. Now, I will not lie to you and say that I am familiar with all these songs, the artists, yes, but the songs, no. But this does not stop me from marvelling at the stellar talent that this band has. They are able to remake, and in some cases improve ("Space Oddity" and "Bad Moon Rising"), songs with such precision and never forget the genre that they are paying respect to. They excell on the motown vibe of "I Want You Back" and well as skanking it up with "Natural Mystic". The stand out tracks on this album are "Space Oddity" and "Bad Moon Rising". Not only do they stay true, but they improve. The intesity and vocals in "Space Oddity" give the song a stronger push, while the lightness and breathy vocals on "Bad Moon Rising" give the song a fun, poppy feeling.Steel Train does not overtly try to make the song their own. Many times that falls, as in the case of "London Calling" (the Clash cover album) and "From the Screen to the Stereo" (New Found Glory's movie song cover album). Instead, by showcasing their ability and talent, they add their own touches by staying true to the songs and respecting the artists. "1969" is an amazing ep and deserves great praise."

Completely amazing

Greg | Danbury, CT | 11/19/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Steel Train is one of those rare bands that you see now a days with actual talent. In a music world dominated by manufactured
"pretty" people, Steel Train brings raw talent to the table and this EP proves that. The cd starts off strong with the cover of The Jackson 5's "I Want You Back" and ends with the classic song "Bad Moon Rising" by Creedence Clearwater Revival. Scott Ranniar has an amazing voice and the guitar work of Jack Antonoff is stellar. This is cd has probably the best covers of all time and shows you the true roots of music now a days with the covers of Jackson 5, Crosby Stills Nash, Bob Marley, David Bowie, The Beatles, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Steel Train are amazing musicians and you should also pick up their debut EP "For You My Dear" which is just as powerful as this album."