Simply an awesome collections of covers.
Generally, cover versions come out sounding like muted versions of the original. On the “Under the Influence” compilation, this is not the case. Almost all of the songs are reinterpreted in a different way, making them unique and stylistically different from their original counterparts: R.A.Y. takes the funk of “Give It Away” and mellows it down until it is a slow groove, The Boston Boys, with the help of Emily Elbert, give “Welcome to Paradise” a very blue-grassy feel. Some of the tracks are interpreted in a very straightforward way before taking a total left turn: The Berklee String Metal Ensemble launches into “Today” with a sound reminiscent of the Smashing Pumpkins. Suddenly, they hit the chorus, which features metal screams galore. Nice. This compilation is interesting, and proves that covers aren’t only for uncreative groups.
Reviewed by: Paul Thomas on March 4th, 2012
RIYL: Any of the original artists
Recommended Tracks: 4, 6, 8
FCC Warning: None
Label: Heavy Rotation Records
Release Date: February 14th, 2012