All that’s left is a band of gold and the memories

The Afghan Whigs: Uptown Avondale

Given that the Afghan Whigs’ style is hard rock with a heavy soul influence, them covering a handful of classic Motown songs is a natural. What is especially impressive about Uptown Avondale is that the synthesis of style is so unusual and perfect. These recordings are neither slavish to their original versions or entirely reconstituted into the Afghan Whigs style. The song choices certainly reflect the mood of the band’s own songwriting, that of a wounded, dark romance based around mutual suffering and abuse, the implicit violence in human relations. First is Freda Payne’s hit “Band of Gold” given rolling, tense percussion and long, anguished, discordant guitar notes while Dulli’s vocals are pulled back to anguished despair. The standard “True Love Travels on a Gravel Road” is even more atmospheric, the guitar part is a constant shivering note, like a Theremin, and Dulli sings slowly and quietly. The Supremes’ “Come See About Me” is the most recognizable song, and it is given the most vigorous rendition, the Halloween bass and distinctive jangle of Rick McCollum’s guitar given free reign, Dulli howling his pain. Al Green’s dark “Beware” gets a similar, blazing Whigs treatment, but back to a much slower pace, working up to a powerful climax. If you’re a Whigs fan, you need this EP, it perfectly encapsulates what set them apart from their peers.

88% => ****1/2

Since this EP is out of print and utterly amazing and necessary, I have uploaded it here for your delectation. Do check it out.

~ by jshopa on May 29, 2008.