“Roadhouse Blues” from The Doors’ fifth album ‘Morrison Hotel’ with those marvellous slurred vocals, Manzarek on a sleazy jangle piano and Lonnie Mack whamming down the bass – has been a favourite cover song for all kinds of artists, over the years.
Now, the London-based cinematic psych duo Saint Agnes have alighted the wonky jalopy – to give it another spin.
Their version is much less cheerful. The harp is mournful (rather than than whooping it up) – and the tune (no doubt reminding you of Alabama 3’s “Woke Up This Morning”) comes through clearer on the Saint Agnes interpretation. It seems less grizzled and worn.
The indolent, shea-butter vocals (Kitty Austen ) shimmer deliciously against the slack-handed guitar strumming of Jon Tufnell.
A steaming organ creates suitably smoggy vapours of bewilderment for the line: “… Got myself a beer.”
This is all about losing a large chunk of time after a particularly heavy session.
It works well here too. Sultry, languid. Full of lazy charm.
@neilmach © 2014
Link:
https://www.facebook.com/wearesaintagnes
Check Saint Agnes at LIVE DATES here:
24th June The Old Blue Last – London w/Blossoms
18th July Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen – London w/Black Market Karma
