Could it be that we already have 2011’s Cover of the Year? A definite possibility if ever one did exist. It will be tough to top James Blake’s cover of “Limit to Your Love,” written and originally recorded by Feist on her 2007 record, The Reminder (check out a live version by Ms. Feist HERE). Blake takes Feist’s lyrics and elements of the original arrangement and makes the song completely his own (as all noteworthy covers tend to do). Blake is able to achieve this by reducing the slow jam’s pace (even more than the original) and breaking the track down into a raw and essential form. The remake is almost cathartic in its simplicity. Nothing unnecessary is included. The main additive is a HEAVY bass beat that resonates best in your headphones. Pump up the volume. You’ll feel it deep in your bones. The bass ingeniously interrupts the occasionally distorted timbre of Blake’s voice and the gentle, lilting piano. As a result, the track absolutely shines.
Check out the fantastical (floating/spinning fruit!) video for Blake’s version below. Download his highly anticipated self-titled debut LP on February 8th on Universal Republic.