Music: Kathleen Edwards
Kathleen breathes new life into a Roger Hodgeson classic from his Supertramp days. Her interpretation and adaptation of this comfortable classic both pays tribute and takes it somewhere new
Imagine yourself as winter was about to flip to spring back in 1979, March 16th to be precise, as the DeeJay at your favorite radio station drops the needle on a new album by a British “progressive pop” band, Supertramp, titled “Breakfast in America”. That album went on to win a bunch of Grammys and other accolades.
It also cemented Roger Hodgeson as an iconic musician.
Hell, several Supertramp songs are littered throughout my Daily Grind playlist, attesting to the staying power of these utterly recognizable tunes.
With this in mind, when the Youtube algos tossed me the recommendation for a cover of The Logical Song by a vocalist I had never heard of, I mashed that playt now button, not sure what to expect.
Boy howdy, was that a great idea. Kathleen’s vocal interpretation leans towards soft adult contemporary in the backing music, with a twinge of jazz influence by the players. A nice softening of the at times edgy original.
But what really stands out is her vocals. She is confident, in control, and makes it hers. It is wonderful.
Take a spin, remember where you were in 1979, and how you’ve changed. And then compare it to what your ears are telling you. I promise you will not be disappointed.
Wasn’t that wonderful? Why not listen to the OG:
Soooooo many memories. Complicated memories. So much happening that year (I graduated HS and started college in the Fall). I’m instantly transported back in time.
Beautiful. My first year at BN Railroad, where I would retire 37 years later.
Went out and bought Breakfast In America at the head shop that doubled as record store. Still have it and spin it once in a great while.
Of course I should have been shopping for a head. Bad pun, sorry.