Go Back Where They Came From
Big And Just Little, 2020
9/10
Listen to Go Back Where They Came From
I think we can all agree that cover albums excel when they deviate in some way from the originals, and Montana’s King Ropes prove that by putting their own spin on a very diverse set of tunes from across the musical spectrum.
“Tall Trees”, a Matt Mays tune, starts the listen with a firm cello guiding the driving alt-country setting and Al Green’s “Take Me To The River” follows with plenty of rhythm and groove lingering in the stylish delivery.
Later on, “Eisler On The Go” does justice to the Billy Bragg & Wilco tune with aching strings amid the dreamy landscape, while “Girls Like Us” puts a glaze of psychedelia on the Tandy original with trombone adding much to the atmosphere. My favorite interpretation, Roger Miller’s “King Of The Road”, then uses psyche-rock, country and hip-hop in abstract, crunchy ways that showcase much creativity.
Towards the end, “Song For A Man” offers strong beats and playful instrumentation in the Beastie Boys cover, and “The Danger Zone” (Ray Charles) exits the listen with electro-pop ideas invading the retro haze of jazz and blues.
King Ropes have never surrendered themselves to convention, and this extremely unique effort continues that trend with stunning results. If you only pick up one covers album this year, I’d make it this one, as repeated listens only increase its listening value.
Travels well with: Timber- The Family; Terry Ohms- Cold Cold Shoulder