Les Fradkin’s band California has just released a brnad new single. Except, it’s not as new as you’d think – in fact, it’s a cover of one of the greatest pop songs of the 1960s, styled just like the decade it was born in.
The song in question? Brown Eyed Girl, the platinum hit originally performed by Van Morrison, and now revamped by California, 58 years on from its original release.
But this isn’t your bog-standard cover. California re-arrange the track, inserting an additional intro to the tune which sinks listeners straight into the 60s vibe, before the first iconic verse is unleashed.
True homage is paid to the Van Morrison version throughout the entirety of this cover, while California thread their own loose twists through the original’s duller moments; reimagining riffs using quirky new instruments, yet keeping Van Morrison’s original vibe alive in its full force. California’s use of the mellotron adds an instant Beatles edge to the cover, while Les’ spotless vocals work in blessed harmony with his backing vocalists. Don’t miss the theremin which makes an appearance around mid-way through the track!
What makes this cover incredible, however, is how California recreate the vintage, analogue sound from the thick of our modern age. It’s almost as if a dusty and discarded vinyl has been rediscovered and re-released for the joy of the contemporary pop/rock scene.
Needless to say, Brown Eyed Girl overflows with positive energy, summery perspectives and a love story that resonates through the generations. And this version is as great as any other, practically on par with the original and well worth a listen for the nostalgia alone.
This summer single features Les Fradkin on vocals, lead guitar, synthesiser, mellotron, theremin and gizmotron cello; Tony Pernice on bass and backing vocals; Richie Tuske on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, and Bob Miller on drums.
Our verdict? Recommended.
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