Good Cover Version: Shana Falana Does Depeche Mode

Pulp gave the world the song "Bad Cover Version." But seeing as I'm a sonic optimist, I'm of the belief that there's more likely than not more good cover versions floating around than bad ones. Good Cover Version celebrates the good, and leaves all that bad and ugly stuff alone.

There's so much to love about Shana Falana's cover of Depeche Mode's classic "Stripped" that I almost don't know where to start.

Shana and Mike keep things in a similar vein, sonically-speaking, to the metallic chill of the original, with plenty of glistening skyscraper synth sounds and taut drum bits.

Shana's vocal performance is captivating, channeling Dave Gahan's vocals in the sense that every word she delivers perfectly fills its designated space. She also exudes a sense of power, sometimes subtle and often in-your-face. Add in a video seemingly inspired by Martin Gore's lyrical need to escape Metropolis, and the effect is rather spellbinding. Altogether, the duo's cover is completely bewitching.

It's worth noting that the pair has just announced some tour dates, if you're lucky enough to be in the path of the tour you might just be lucky enough to hear this one live.  

[posted 10.13.18]