Covers Project

It’s been a long time since I’ve posted anything here, but in light of the unexpected interest in my music of late (I’m still laughing), I figured I’d report that I’ve been working on an album of covers I hope to finish this summer.

The intent is to pay homage to the songs I’ve played again and again over the years, often alone at the piano. I want to capture my love for the songs that have shaped me as a songwriter and deepened my relationship with music. Hopefully, the result sparks some love for these songs in new listeners.

Some of you have heard me cover some of these songs, a few of which have appeared on set lists for shows since as far back as high school: Counting Crows’ “Rain King,” Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” Radiohead’s “There, There,” Ryan Adams’ “Oh My Sweet Carolina,” and Ben Folds Five’s “Narcolepsy.” The more recent ones include Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now,” Tallest Man on Earth’s “The Wild Hunt,” Bon Iver’s “Re: Stacks,” and Andrew Bird’s “Orpheo.”

I’m still working on the final list, which will include songs I’ve never performed live (maybe Blake Mills’ “Curable Disease,” Josh Ritter’s “Thin Blue Flame,” and Fleet Foxes’ “Helplessness Blues”). I’m also figuring out whether to record simple solo versions that reflect my personal experience with the songs or add a band and orchestration to explore the beautiful depths and possibilities I find in them.

I’d love to hear what you’d find meaningful in this project. Let me know through my Instagram account, @jameseganmusic.

CREDITS

My new album Invisible Light (available here) is a different animal than past efforts. They've been much leaner affairs. I recorded them in amateur home studios and played most of the instruments myself. For Invisible Light, I recorded in professional studios and collaborated with many talented friends. This list of those friends isn't exhaustive (I'll be adding to it), but it's part of my meager thanks to those who made major contributions.