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Different But Still The Same

By Claudia | Reviews
18 Feb 2011

I remember having a discussion a few years ago with some guy about the song “Personal Jesus” on Johnny Cash’s album “American IV: The Man Comes Around“. He thought the Depeche Mode cover version was pretty neat, but couldn’t come up to Johnny Cash’s original. Due to my sense of justice (and my strong devotion for Depeche Mode), I tried to explain that it’s actually the other way round, but he wouldn’t believe me. And to be honest with you, who could blame him?

This conversation could happen again, when I would talk with someone about Bart Davenport‘s current album “Searching For Bart Davenport“. Twelve songs and he embraces every single one, it would never occur to you that he hasn’t been the composer.

The first song “Come On Let’s Go” originally by electronic/Dream Pop band Broadcast, is a worthy follower for José Gonzáles‘ version of The Knife‘s “Heartbeats”. Davenport created an intimate song, boiled down to the root of the matter.

His reinterpretation of Caetano Veloso‘s “Maria Bethania” is less tropical, but more hippiesque. His reinterpretation of The Incredible String Band‘s “You Get Brighter” is less (Hare Krishna) hippiesque, but more romantic.

My personal favourite though is his version of Arthur Lee And Love‘s “Wonder People (I Do Wonder)”. I presume this record must have been part of his parents’ record collection. He turns it into a beautiful and light pop tune, I just can’t stop listening to it.

Last but not least he had the guts to do a Gil-Scott Heron song. I have to admit I had some doubts about that one, but they were totally causeless. His somehow jazzy version of “Better Days Ahead” gives me the goosebumps.

Altogether “Searching For Bart Davenport” is an intimate journey through Bart’s world of musical idols and influences. This album is like a 45 minute staycation. Recreation guaranteed.