Wolf Alice has released a captivating cover of The Roches' 'Hammond Song', featuring the enchanting vocals of Sunflower Bean's Julia Cumming and Bria Salmena. This collaboration marks a significant moment in the band's journey, as they explore new musical horizons while paying homage to the original song's rich history. The track is a testament to the band's artistic evolution and their willingness to experiment with different sounds and artists.
The inspiration behind this cover is deeply rooted in the three-sister dynamic of The Roches, a band known for their unique blend of folk and pop. Wolf Alice's frontwoman, Ellie Rowsell, shared that the song's guitar work and vocal treatment inspired their own 'Blue Weekend', and it continued to influence their latest album, 'The Clearing'. The recording process in LA, where both Cumming and Salmena were based, added a layer of excitement and collaboration to the project.
'Hammond Song' was originally written by Maggie Roche, reflecting on the sisters' decision to leave New York and spend time in Hammond, Louisiana. This period, though initially motivated by love, ultimately led to regret. Wolf Alice's interpretation of the song adds a modern twist while retaining the essence of the original, showcasing their ability to pay homage to classic artists while staying true to their own artistic vision.
This cover is just one of the many surprises in store for fans as Wolf Alice prepares to release a collection of B-sides digitally over the coming weeks. The full B-sides album, including 'Hammond Song', will be released on August 21, marking the one-year anniversary of 'The Clearing'. Fans can pre-order the album through Wolf Alice's official store, ensuring they don't miss out on this exciting addition to their discography.
Wolf Alice's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular. Their London show at Finsbury Park, which included a five-star review from NME, showcased their evolution as a band. The review praised their development over the years, highlighting their brilliance and artistic growth. The band's ability to cover songs like Nirvana's 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' and incorporate them into their sets demonstrates their versatility and adaptability, making them one of the most exciting and dynamic bands in the industry today.
