I can remember that this song caught be by surprise. It was certainly a departure for EBTG. It was also a precursor for much of their later work. This is an awesome live performance showcasing Tracey Thorne’s brilliant voice.
If I was to write honestly, I’d tell you that this song resonates deeply with me. The story told by Ray Lamontagne could be – at least in part – my own. But perhaps this is the magic of his songwriting. Listen, and let its truth touch your own.
Listening to Ray LaMontagne sing this stripped back love song breaks your heart. When he asks, “Are we strangers now?” streams a vision of past loves and friends through my mind – and the look on KT Tunstall’s face at the end of the song (about 6:18) says it all. This is why live performance always wins.
I have always loved moody music – but this song from 1979 was one of the first that I can remember clearly. There’s a real expansiveness in the driving bass line and the raspy lead vocals.
While observing the discussion and action around the #occupywallstreet movement I was reminded that these issues are not new. In fact, they were hot topics during my university days. And this song by Tracy Chapman seemed to eloquently capture the human dimension and impact.
Over the last few weeks I have been revisiting David Gray’s music and it has been like a fresh awakening – especially thanks to the live performances found on YouTube. Here’s another great one.
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