Wonderwall in 4 parts

The movie 'Wonderwall' was released in 1968. The soundtrack was by George Harrison. The soundtrack was obviously the inspiration behind Noel Gallagher's song of the same name. One of the many connections between Oasis and The Beatles.



Noel Gallagher writes "Wonderwall" and Oasis release it in 1995. It becomes a worldwide hit... also topping the charts here in New Zealand.



Cat Power's beautiful version brings it to aching proportions.



Ryan Adams' version consistently moves people... Noel Gallagher is one such person.

Cat Power - "Evolution"

"Evolution" was from Cat Power's 2003 album 'You Are Free' which featured Dave Grohl on drums and Eddie Vedder helps out on backing vocals. During this period, Chan Marshall aka 'Cat Power' was battling her demons, insecurities and alcohol. At the time, a Cat Power concert was like a lottery... a far cry from the time I saw her at The Powerstation in Auckland, when she was touring the 'Jukebox' album, a couple of years ago. Anyway, the release of 'You Are Free' was a return to original songs, after her covers album 'The Covers Record' in 2000. It was an exceptional album right from the opening track "I Don't Blame You," through to the centre piece "He War" and then through to the closing track "Evolution." By the way, "You Are Free" is actually a letter to Kurt Cobain, in song. That, and the guest appearances of Eddie Vedder and Dave Grohl could convince anyone unfamiliar with Cat Power, that this is a Grunge album.... but no it isn't. Eddie Vedder is on backing vocals for "Evolution" offering some baritone to Cat Power's beautiful voice. I won't even try to explain how much I love her voice. This is only one of so many examples... but a good one, indeed.

Cat Power - "Satisfaction"

Another cover of the Rolling Stones' "Satisfaction".... Have I completely lots my marbles? Maybe not, but after the last blog was also an excellent cover of the same song, it might take some convincing to back it up with another one. But I'm up for the challenge and I don't think this will fail to impress. Cat Power released this on 'The Covers Record' album in 2000. She has stripped it right down and has definitely made it her own.... which isn't an easy task, considering the status of the original. The most interesting part about this version is the fact that it omits the choruses completely.... so, to some, it is unrecognisable. I caught her live at the Powerstation when she toured last year and she played this completely with the choruses and it was more in the style of the original.... but this is the version I will always prefer.