Bettye LavetteInterpretations: The British Rock Songbook
ANTI- Records [2010]
Fire Drill Review:
I am the world's biggest sucker for a covers record but when I heard veteran soul singer Bettye Lavette was taking on the Brits I couldn't wait to check it out. Lavette covers big names here in The Beatles, The Who, The Moody Blues, Led Zeppelin, Elton John and Pink Floyd. In most cases she completely dismantles the songs all the way from the lyrics to pace, while giving them her vocal all. Interpretations works because of Lavette's passionate voice which sounds as strong today as it did twenty years ago. Nothing on here is going to completely blow you way but her re-working of the tempos, lyrics and pace pulls an entirely different set of emotions from these tracks which is the true spirit of the record. Bettye Lavette is a great singer, so it is no surprise how she can crank these classic tunes out but the real heart of album lies in the slow pace of most tracks. This gives you an unique opportunity, possibly for the first time, to examine and feel the lyrics of your favorite song in a whole new way!
Key Track: "Maybe I'm Amazed"
Band With Similar Fire: Aretha Franklin
Bettye LaVette: The Scene Of The Crime [Fire Note Review 10/29/07]
Official Bettye LaVette Website
Bettye LaVette MySpace
Bettye LaVette Facebook
Anti- Records
-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony
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