SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: VARIOUS ARTISTS – LOVE, LA

VARIOUS ARTISTS
LOVE, LA
ORG MUSIC

Compilation albums have often been hit-and-miss, over the course of recorded music history, but that is not the case with Love, LA. This multi-artist release is a rare gem among the ‘compilation’ genre. As a special Record Store Day release from Org Music, Love, LA is comprised of pairings of artists who possess a close relationship with Los Angeles, performing duets of their favourite songs.

The album is curated and produced by Paige Stark of Tashaki Miyaki and Rick Ross of Delicious Vinyl, and is clearly a labour of love. Musically diverse, this album is outstanding overall. Despite the variety and diversity of performers on the album, the common thread here is quality of production, and artistry.

The album starts strong, with Robyn Hitchcock and Emma Swift singing REM’s “Arms of Love”. A simple guitar and voice presentation builds nicely, with the addition of keys and percussion, and layered vocals. The lead vocals are up-front and assertive.

Leslie Stevens and Jim James’ take on Stevie Nicks and Don Henley’s “Leather & Lace” is another standout. It is a straight-up cover that moves a touch faster than the original. The sound is filled out nicely by the addition of fiddle and steel guitar.

Paige Stark and comedian/actor/musician Marc Maron turn in a haunting version “Signed D.C.” (originally recorded by the band Love). Stark and Maron’s voices work well together in this song of desperation, and the chaotic cacophony of guitar and blues harmonica in the playout enhances the jarring nature of the subject matter.

Interestingly, the first few songs on the album are quite subdued sonically. This lulls the listener into thinking that they are in for a somber ride. Things pick up in the second half, though. Poppy Jean Crawford and Tashaki Miyaki’s stylistically cool version of The Turtles “You Showed Me”, and Particle Kid and Sunny War’s awesome interpretation of Depeche Mode’s “Never Let Me Down Again” serve to lift this project, energy-wise.

It is worth noting that the proceeds of the sale of this album will benefit the Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center, which provides performing arts instruction to youth in South Central L.A. As a special Record Store Day release, this unique record is pressed on gold-coloured vinyl  and features original artwork from Julia Wick.

If you are the type of listener who appreciates interesting artist pairings and creative takes on well-known songs, Love, LA would be well worth investigating.

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