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Fun Stuff => BAND => Topic started by: 3Z3VH on 13 Sep 2007, 23:06

Title: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 3Z3VH on 13 Sep 2007, 23:06
Bob Marley ----> Annie Lennox - "Waiting in Vain"

Fleetwood Mac ----> Smashing Pumpkins - "Landslide"

Dr. Who Theme -----> Orbital - "Doctor?"

Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Joseph on 13 Sep 2007, 23:09
Beatles to The Breeders - "Happiness is a Warm Gun"
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: onewheelwizzard on 13 Sep 2007, 23:39
Kyuss did "Into the Void" better than Sabbath.

That's the only time I'm probably ever going to end a sentence that way.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Hat on 14 Sep 2007, 00:28
Beatles to The Breeders - "Happiness is a Warm Gun"

I was really set to get angry as soon as I saw "The Beatles", but you're actually right!

I'm going to go out on a limb and say Between the Buried and Me covering Geek USA is really better than the original. I like Cake's version of I Will Survive a lot better. Damnit, I'm sure I can think of better examples than this though. I will be back later.

Oh, the Melvins covering Smells Like Teen Spirit is definately better than the original. Dream Theaters version of Ganglands is a really good take on a really mediocre Iron Maiden song as well.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: rhinohelicopter on 14 Sep 2007, 06:47
Hat made a good point; Cake does excellent covers.  Their cover of "War Pigs" wasn't great but, every other cover I hear by them is really good.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: valley_parade on 14 Sep 2007, 07:05
I've two.

Dropkick Murphys -> Angelic Upstarts "Never Again"

Deftones -> Skynyrd "Simple Man"
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Ernest on 14 Sep 2007, 10:53
Hat made a good point; Cake does ugly girls named Angus angrily in Armenia. 
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: thenosebleedkid on 14 Sep 2007, 17:03
Stevie ray Vaughn - Voodoo Child
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: IronOxide on 14 Sep 2007, 17:22
I am really a fan of The Polyphonic Spree's version of 'Lithium'.

Also, I am generally not a fan of Nirvana.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: E. Spaceman on 14 Sep 2007, 17:37
Go West - Pet Shop Boys (The Village People)
Always on My Mind - Pet Shop Boys (Elvis)
Wonderwall - Ryan Adams (Oasis)
Teachers - Soulwax (Daft Punk)
Against All Odds - The Postal Service ( Phil Collins)
the entire Dark Side of The Moon - Easy All Stars (Pink Floyd)
Save Your Generation - Fall Out Boy (Jawbreaker)

Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 3Z3VH on 14 Sep 2007, 17:45
the entire Dark Side of The Moon - Easy All Stars (Pink Floyd)

I will have to check that out... I am very skeptical anyone could have improved upon the best selling album of all time.

Against All Odds - The Postal Service ( Phil Collins)

As much as I agree this one NEEDS to be re-made, I don't think they did a good job of it.  The beginning with the faint static-y female voice was awesome, but the second the guy's voice chimed in I was ready to shut it off
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: E. Spaceman on 14 Sep 2007, 17:56
oh man, someone covered all of Thriller?
This is the best thing i've heard all week.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: pteridoid on 14 Sep 2007, 18:31
Anything by Leonard Cohen that someone else has covered. The guy can't sing.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: SpellC on 14 Sep 2007, 19:53
Sea Lion Woman - Feist (especially live! <3)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: David_Dovey on 14 Sep 2007, 20:42
the entire Dark Side of The Moon - Easy All Stars (Pink Floyd)
Save Your Generation - Fall Out Boy (Jawbreaker)

You're hilarious.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Mnementh on 14 Sep 2007, 22:04
Crimson and Clover.  Originally by Tommy James & The Shondells (pretty awesome), covered by Joan Jett and The Blackhearts (hella awesome)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: C Patrick Carolan on 14 Sep 2007, 23:01
Type O Negative's "Cinammon Girl" (Neil Young)

Marilyn Manson recorded what is probably the best version of Gary Numan's "Down in the Park" as a B-Side.. it's probably also the best song Marilyn Manson ever recorded, actually.

I'll probably be crucified for saying I prefer the Love Spit Love version of "How Soon is Now?" to the The Smiths...

And I'm not so sure it's better, but Iron & Wine's recording of "Such Great Heights" is every bit as wonderful as the original Postal Service version.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: teh pwn queen on 14 Sep 2007, 23:35
Sheryl Crow--Sweet Child o' Mine (Gun's n' Roses) <~~~~ I don't like them on pricinple, plus, I heard Sheryl Crow's version first when I was younger, so that may be apart of it.

A Perfect Circle--Imagine (John Lennon) <~~~~ I like minor chord songs anyways...

Emiliana Torrini-- If You Go Away (Rod McKuen) <~~~~ Plus, her's is in english. The song was actually first covered in english by a women named Shirley Bassey, fyi.

That's all I can think of for now.



Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 3Z3VH on 15 Sep 2007, 01:39
Bruce Springsteen ----> Tori Amos - "Thunder Road"
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: axerton on 15 Sep 2007, 02:21
Michael Andrews version of "Mad World" far outstrips the Tears for Fears original.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: C Patrick Carolan on 15 Sep 2007, 02:25
Uh... wasn't that Gary Jules?

I think Michael Andrews played on the track, but it's generally creditied as a Gary Jules song.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Thrillho on 15 Sep 2007, 08:00
the entire Dark Side of The Moon - Easy All Stars (Pink Floyd)

I will have to check that out... I am very skeptical anyone could have improved upon the best selling album of all time.

The Eagles' Greatest Hits is the best selling album of all time. And Thriller is the best selling studio album of all time.

As for Dark Side, I'm so sick of it that hearing Dub Side Of The Moon was a relief because it screws around with it. Good stuff. I particularly love the 'Money' samples being replaced with someone taking a bong hit.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: muteKi on 15 Sep 2007, 08:31
Most covers by TMBG and MMEB (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manfred_Mann%27s_Earth_Band) tend to be better than the originals.

Istanbul (Not Constantinople) is a cover
Why Does the Sun Shine? is also a cover
Yeh Yeh is a cover

MMEB's best covers are the ones based on Springsteen's or Dylan's songs (which are also major favorites of the band and their fans), but their first hit could be considered a cover of part of Holst's Planets (Specifically, part of Jupiter: The Bringer of Jollity, renamed Joybringer).
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 3Z3VH on 15 Sep 2007, 08:41
The Eagles' Greatest Hits is the best selling album of all time. And Thriller is the best selling studio album of all time.

That's right, I got my facts mixed up, it was the album that spent the longest on the billboard charts... by a long shot.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Cartilage Head on 15 Sep 2007, 08:59
 The Number Twelve Looks Like You - My Sharona (The Knack.)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Johnny C on 15 Sep 2007, 09:41
The Dirty Projectors' new record, Rise Above, is a "re-imagining" of Black Flag's Damaged that is truly superb.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: pat101 on 15 Sep 2007, 10:13
I second johnny's statement. It's excellent.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: michaelicious on 15 Sep 2007, 10:16
Deerhoof's cover of 'Lose My Breath' was better than the MBV original.

Deerhoof's cover of "My Pal Foot Foot" by the Shaggs is, perhaps, a slight improvement.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: SleeperCylon on 15 Sep 2007, 13:00
Nobody's mentioning All Along the Watchtower?

Nirvana - The Man Who Sold The World (Bowie)
Nickel Creek - Tomorrow Is A Long Time (Dylan)
A few of Dylan's Basement Tapes covers of The Band
Raveonettes - My Boyfriend's Back (Some 50's pop star)
Joe Cocker - With A Little Help From My Friends (Beatles)

And, the remake of all time that's the most WORSE than the original:

That version of Big Yellow Taxi playing on the radio right now.

I work in inventory.  I go around to stores like CVS, Walgreens, Shaws.  I hear that hack-job like ten times a week!  I can't escape it!
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Johnny C on 15 Sep 2007, 14:25
And, the remake of all time that's the most WORSE than the original:

That version of Big Yellow Taxi playing on the radio right now.

not true (http://youtube.com/watch?v=rCSr5MQzplI)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: muteKi on 15 Sep 2007, 17:50
The Number Twelve Looks Like You - My Sharona (The Knack.)

My Sharona was also covered by Polysics, which is awesome.

And that Limp Bizkit cover does indeed suck. When it sounds like nothing other than random noises (and while I can like random noises sometimes, this isn't good random noise, and doesn't fit AT ALL with anything else in the song).

And I actually liked the primal screams and stuff in the My Sharona cover, but I could barely keep from cracking up.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Valrus on 15 Sep 2007, 18:46
Anything by Leonard Cohen that someone else has covered. The guy can't sing.

Yes. I'd like to put in a vote for basically every cover of "Hallelujah." So much squandered potential in the original.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Ernest on 15 Sep 2007, 20:21
Nirvana- Where Did You Sleep Last Night?

The Lead Belly version is just old as hell.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Xukuth on 16 Sep 2007, 00:12
Manfred Mann's Earth Band's cover of "Blinded By the Light" is vastly better than Bruce Springsteen's original.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Veritas on 16 Sep 2007, 01:49
Beatles to The Breeders - "Happiness is a Warm Gun"
Oh, the Melvins covering Smells Like Teen Spirit is definately better than the original.

I am really a fan of The Polyphonic Spree's version of 'Lithium'.

Also, I am generally not a fan of Nirvana.

Because of you, Cobain is turning in his grave!!!


also, I think several of the covers from Evergreen Terrace's cover album would be amazing if they would just tone down the screaming a little. specifically Sunday Bloody Sunday and especially Mad World.

Also. Switchfoots cover of Sorrow (Bad Religion) is the WORST thing I have ever heard. He took an excellent song and sang it to some crappy acoustic riff that he wrote. Bad Jon Foreman! NO! (swats on the nose, as tho he were a dog.)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: The extra letter on 16 Sep 2007, 05:03
I've always thought that PIG's cover of 1979 (Smashing Pumpkins) is much better than the original.

Also:

The Sisters of Mercy - Gimme Shelter (Rolling Stones)

KMFDM - Der Mussolini (DAF)

Manic Street Preachers - Take the Skinheads Bowling (Camper Van Beethoven)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: thenosebleedkid on 16 Sep 2007, 05:13
Dimmu Borgir - Burn in Hell

granted the Twisted Sister version isn't much competiton, so this might not be the greatest example!
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: michaelicious on 16 Sep 2007, 08:03
Manfred Mann's Earth Band's cover of "Blinded By the Light" is vastly better than Bruce Springsteen's original.

Lies! "Cut loose like a deuce" is far better than "Revved up like a deuce".
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: E. Spaceman on 16 Sep 2007, 10:30
Ceremony - Galaxie 500 [New Order (Joy Division)]
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Joseph on 16 Sep 2007, 13:17
Man, I have to disagree with pretty much everyone who's mentioned a Bruce Springsteen cover so far.  Those originals just win.

Deerhoof's cover of 'Lose My Breath' was better than the MBV original.
I need to hear this.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: muteKi on 16 Sep 2007, 14:24
This one may be arguable, but I prefer Hindu Love Gods' cover of Raspberry Beret.

Does a folk song count as a cover? If so, put Great Big Sea for a whole bunch of songs, then.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Joseph on 16 Sep 2007, 14:45
Right after I made the post I realized it was on the EP, which I already had.  Kind of dumb of me.  And yes, the EP is pretty fantastic.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: SeanBateman on 16 Sep 2007, 15:29
I would like to point out that anyone who thinks covers of Leonard Cohen songs are better than the originals is probably a communist and should be burned at the stake.

None of the covers of Hallelujah, for example, have one iota of Cohen's pure tragic essence, nor do they come close to him in terms of beauty. People who prefer the Rufus Wainwright/Jeff Buckley/Whoever versions need to go back and relisten to the original and realize just how wrong they are.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: thedavo on 16 Sep 2007, 16:04
Johnny Cash's Hurt (originally by Nine Inch Nails)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Johnny C on 16 Sep 2007, 16:20
Yeah, Leonard Cohen's vocal limitations are also part of the point.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 3Z3VH on 16 Sep 2007, 16:20
Johnny Cash's Hurt (originally by Nine Inch Nails)

His version was good if you watch the video, but as a standalone song, I liked the NIN version way better.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Catacombs on 16 Sep 2007, 17:47
Rufus Wainwright's cover of Across the Universe is much better than the Beatles version.  Lennon wrote a beatiful song, but then there were too many production fuck arounds with it.  And Rufus' version on the I Am Sam is pretty than the version on Poses.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Catacombs on 16 Sep 2007, 17:49
OH and also Ben Folds' cover of Bitches Ain't Shit.  NO ONE can argue that one.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Kai on 16 Sep 2007, 20:28
Since I took it up as the forum's national spokesman of The Chronic, I will have to disagree. Incredibly.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Mnementh on 16 Sep 2007, 20:38
I would like to point out that anyone who thinks covers of Leonard Cohen songs are better than the originals is probably a communist and should be burned at the stake.

None of the covers of Hallelujah, for example, have one iota of Cohen's pure tragic essence, nor do they come close to him in terms of beauty. People who prefer the Rufus Wainwright/Jeff Buckley/Whoever versions need to go back and relisten to the original and realize just how wrong they are.

Amen.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: David_Dovey on 16 Sep 2007, 20:39
Nobody's mentioning All Along the Watchtower?

YES.

Actually, i pretty much like any Dylan song that's been covered better than when Dylan performs it.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: pat101 on 16 Sep 2007, 20:42
Since I took it up as the forum's national spokesman of The Chronic, I will have to disagree. Incredibly.

I'll second the disagreement, though the cover is real sweet.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Johnny C on 16 Sep 2007, 21:28
Actually, i pretty much like any Dylan song that's been covered better than when Dylan performs it.

This may be true but I would contest your assertion that they are better.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Ishotdanieljohnston on 17 Sep 2007, 03:22
Anything by Leonard Cohen that someone else has covered. The guy can't sing.

jeff buckley kicked his ass.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: The extra letter on 17 Sep 2007, 04:07
I would like to point out that anyone who thinks covers of Leonard Cohen songs are better than the originals is probably a communist and should be burned at the stake.

None of the covers of Hallelujah, for example, have one iota of Cohen's pure tragic essence, nor do they come close to him in terms of beauty. People who prefer the Rufus Wainwright/Jeff Buckley/Whoever versions need to go back and relisten to the original and realize just how wrong they are.

Yeah, that sums it up pretty damn well. Cohen's voice is supposed to sound all whiskey and cigarettes and no sleep.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: SeanBateman on 17 Sep 2007, 07:26
Anything by Leonard Cohen that someone else has covered. The guy can't sing.

jeff buckley kicked his ass.


stupid stupid stupid stupid.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Pelay on 18 Sep 2007, 14:18
Ben Gibbard singing Avril's Complicated   
and one that isn't just hysterical, is the Ryan Adams version of Wonderwall
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Scandanavian War Machine on 18 Sep 2007, 14:49
Nirvana didn't do Love Buzz nearly as good as Shocking Blue, if you ask me. That's all i can think of.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: anditsdiscontents on 18 Sep 2007, 20:32
(for the oz-kids)
Blueline Medic does excellent versions of "Precious Things" by Tori Amos and "Let Go" by Frou Frou.
Something For Kate's version of "Harpoon" destroys Jebediah's original.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: pilsner on 18 Sep 2007, 23:22
Anything by Leonard Cohen that someone else has covered. The guy can't sing.

jeff buckley kicked his ass.


stupid stupid stupid stupid.

If only Buckley had thought to use a chorus.  Well, we can always wait for him to do another -- oh wait he died tragically young.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Dinky on 19 Sep 2007, 09:09
I just saw a metal rendition of Rasputin by Turisas which compared favourably to the original.

Even the ludicrous costumes of the band seemed in keeping with the spirit of Boney M.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: muteKi on 19 Sep 2007, 09:15
I almost want to say Tom Jones's version of Ring of Fire, which was much more rollicking and intense than Cash's "light mariachi" sound (that is, mid-tempo, light brass, major scales).
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 3Z3VH on 20 Sep 2007, 00:55
Not sure if it was better, per se... but DEFINITELY a kick ass tribute:

The Who ----> Pearl Jam - "(Love) Reign O'er Me"
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: mortarman178 on 20 Sep 2007, 02:24
aliean ant farm's remake of  "smooth criminal" was preaty good
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Joseph on 20 Sep 2007, 08:16
Pretty good ≠ better than the original.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: michaelicious on 20 Sep 2007, 09:06
Patti Smith's version of My Generation is excellent.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Scandanavian War Machine on 20 Sep 2007, 11:30
Green Day does an excellent cover of "My Generation" too. it's about one point shy of tying the original for goodness. so i guess it's not actually relevent to this thread.....dang.



edit: i just realized that i might be assasinated for mentioning Green Day and "excellent" in the same sentence so to clarify: this song is on their album Kerplunk which their best album....actually it's their only album as far as i'm concerned. the rest really isn't for me at all. But i love Kerplunk to death and always will.

edit #2: Kerplunk is now in the Sendspace Thread for download by you fine people.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 3Z3VH on 20 Sep 2007, 11:44
aliean ant farm's remake of  "smooth criminal" was preaty good
Pretty good ≠ better than the original.

Also "aliean" and "preaty" ≠ English
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: mberan42 on 20 Sep 2007, 15:34
Obidiah Parker - Hey Ya! (Outkast)
Jonathon Coulton - Baby Got Back (Sir Mix-a-Lot)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 2HourHiatus on 20 Sep 2007, 16:25
William Shatner's "Rocket Man" is the zenith of all covers.
Franz Ferdinand's cover of "All My Friends" by LCD Soundsystem was pretty damn good.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Alex C on 20 Sep 2007, 19:31
Alanis Morisette's cover of "My Humps" was priceless.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: E. Spaceman on 21 Sep 2007, 08:30
Franz Ferdinand's cover of "All My Friends" by LCD Soundsystem was pretty damn good.

This is my favourite Franz Ferdinand song, but it is not really half as good as the original.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: David_Dovey on 21 Sep 2007, 08:58
Obidiah Parker - Hey Ya! (Outkast)

Oh God so many high-fives for you
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: 3Z3VH on 21 Sep 2007, 10:21
Obidiah Parker - Hey Ya! (Outkast)
It's discoveries like this, that are the whole reason I started this thread !  Thanks man !
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: rb_lestr on 22 Sep 2007, 18:12
Xiu Xiu - Don't Cha (Pussycat Dolls)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: imapiratearg on 23 Sep 2007, 07:40
Both Sam Beam's and Ben Fold's (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4v8X_Zi-xY) covers of "Such Great Heights" by The Postal Service.

The video there, is Ben covering it live on Myspace Gigs.  It's crazy.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Luke C on 23 Sep 2007, 10:31
Stevie ray Vaughn - Voodoo Child

Interesting call, I really like SRV's cover of Voodoo Child but I don't know if is better than the Hendrix original.

Cash's version of Hurt is better than the original.
Hendrix's version of All Along the Watchtower is better than the original.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 23 Sep 2007, 20:54
Santa Esmerelda's cover of Don't Let me be Misunderstood by the Animals.

I felt like being obscure,  :mrgreen:

Edit: Mr. Green fits better
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: David_Dovey on 23 Sep 2007, 21:13
Interesting call, I really like SRV's cover of Voodoo Child but I don't know if is better than the Hendrix original.

I do.

It's not.

Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Liz on 23 Sep 2007, 21:29
I feel almost suicidal saying this but........... Rihanna's Umbrella sounded so much better when sung by Mandy Moore
Seconded. I actually have Mandy's newest CD and I like it a lot, especially the song 'Gardenia.'
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: rhinohelicopter on 29 Sep 2007, 05:31
Johnny Cash did one hell of a cover of "Rusty Cage" by Soundgarden.  Cash really makes you believe he's trapped.  Plus, I think Chris Cornell's voice is boring.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: ThinWhiteDuke09 on 29 Sep 2007, 07:28
The Sounds - "Goodbye Seventies"
The West End Girls - "Its a Sin" (Pet Shop Boys)
Also Shatner and Ben Folds covered Pulp's "common people" its not very good but its fun to listen to.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Catacombs on 29 Sep 2007, 08:21
A WORKING CLASS HERO IS SOMETHING TO BEEEEEEE






na but in all seriousness anyone ever hear the french version of 'my generation'?
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: LordNagash on 29 Sep 2007, 13:39
I like Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire and (Ghost) Riders in the sky better than the originals.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Jedit on 29 Sep 2007, 17:02
Nobody's mentioning All Along the Watchtower?

I think in the interests of brevity Bob Dylan should be excluded from this thread. 

Quote
Joe Cocker - With A Little Help From My Friends (Beatles)

Is this some kind of post-modern ironic thing?  Cocker's version is fucking terrible.  I don't care if the Beatles were so stoned they let Ringo sing the original (thanks, Bill!), it could never be as bad as Cocker's version.  "Whaaaaaat... wouldyouthiiiiink... ifIsaaaang... outoftuuuuune?"  You are singing out of tune, you gormless twat - now piss off and assail some other poor bastard. 

True story: someone put the Cocker WALHFMF on in the UMIST union bar one night.  At the end of the first line someone yelled "YES!", and half a dozen patrons promptly stood up and walked out.

Quote
And, the remake of all time that's the most WORSE than the original:

That version of Big Yellow Taxi playing on the radio right now.

That version of Big Yellow Taxi may well be Joni Mitchell's new version. 

C. Patrick Carolan - if they don't get you for claiming Love Spit Love's cover of How Soon Is Now? is better than the original, I'll get you on grounds of Probable Charmed Fandom.  Start running, boy.  (I'll say this for it, though - it's the only good cover of HSIN.  I know this because I spent a weekend once hunting them all down.)

There's a number of noms I'll gladly second in this thread, but i have a few of my own.

Laibach - God Is God (originally by Juno Reactor)
Rammstein - Das Modell (originally by Kraftwerk)
Cowboy Junkies - Sweet Jane (originally by Lou Reed)
The Breeders - Theme from "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (originally by Nerf Herder)
16 Horsepower - Day of the Lord (originally by Joy Division)
Thea Gilmore - Ever Fallen In Love...? (originally by The Buzzcocks)

Honourable mention for Alien Sex Fiend's cover of Echoes (originally by Pink Floyd).  Not better... just entirely different while at the same time exactly the same.

Query: do traditional arrangements qualify as remakes?  If so, add House of the Rising Sun by the Animals and Loch Lomond by Runrig to the list.


EDIT: Buggrit, I forgot the Gourds - Gin and Juice (originally by Snoop Doggy Whateverthehellhe's callinghimselfthisweek).  Bluegrass rap, as I live.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: funkyfest on 29 Sep 2007, 20:54
Patti Smith's version of My Generation is excellent.

It is...but her version of "Gloria" stomps all over Them's original.

Jay Brannan "Str8 Outta Compton" = N.W.A. "Straight Outta Compton"
Can't really compare them since I love them both for different reasons. But worthy of a mention.

And what's with the Leonard Cohen hating? That's whack, his voice starts to sound real nice after a while. Once you get into the lyrics.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Johnny C on 30 Sep 2007, 01:23
Also Shatner and Ben Folds covered Pulp's "common people" its not very good but its fun to listen to.

Jesus Christ people the picture of me frowning is going to become a macro if we don't nip this sort of thing in the bud.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Darkbluerabbit on 01 Oct 2007, 01:30
Sheryl Crow--Sweet Child o' Mine (Gun's n' Roses) <~~~~ I don't like them on pricinple, plus, I heard Sheryl Crow's version first when I was younger, so that may be apart of it.

They both make me hate humans.  Sheryl Crow was good for maybe ten minutes of her recorded life, she's done some good backing vocals.


I'll probably be crucified for saying I prefer the Love Spit Love version of "How Soon is Now?" to the The Smiths...

Umm, no.  Richard Butler, and anything he does, is AMAZING. No crucifixion.


And, the remake of all time that's the most WORSE than the original:

That version of Big Yellow Taxi playing on the radio right now.

I actually used to defend Counting Crows, until they came out with that shit. Then there was that song they did for a fucking Shrek soundtrack, with Adam Duritz embarrassing himself looking like a fucking blueberry at the Oscars...yeah.  Amy Hit the Atmosphere was a good song...where'd they go?


Also. Switchfoots cover of Sorrow (Bad Religion) is the WORST thing I have ever heard. He took an excellent song and sang it to some crappy acoustic riff that he wrote. Bad Jon Foreman! NO! (swats on the nose, as tho he were a dog.)

Switchfoot covers of anything should not be allowed to happen.  Switchfoot recording music should not be allowed to happen.

William Shatner's "Rocket Man" is the zenith of all covers.

The Shat doesn't cover songs, he claims them.

Alanis Morisette's cover of "My Humps" was priceless.

WHAT?...I can't decide if I want to hear this.  The original is possibly the worst song EVER.


Also Shatner and Ben Folds covered Pulp's "common people" its not very good but its fun to listen to.

Yes.  Also the live version with Joe Jackson.  ROCKS.



I am a big fan of Tori Amos covers.  She's probably the one recording artist who can take any song, good or bad, and play it in a way that respects the original (deserving of respect or not) and make it her own, while giving good credit to the original performer.  She just knows how to play with respect.  Her "Smells Like Teen Spirit" while first recorded shortly after Kurt's death, doesn't have  a HINT of exploitation.  You hear nothing but respect for an artist who influenced her.  Tori...let's just forget about "The Beekeeper" and then I can continue to love you...
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: pilsner on 01 Oct 2007, 12:31
Alanis Morisette's cover of "My Humps" was priceless.

WHAT?...I can't decide if I want to hear this.  The original is possibly the worst song EVER.

Not only do you want to hear it, you want to heard it right now.  It is the most brilliant musical satire I have ever heard.  It made me totally reevaluate who Alanis is.  It is also has actual depth, in that it takes something mysoginistic and empty and repurposes it as a joke about self-destructive materialism.  Seriously.

Here it is. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W91sqAs-_-g)
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Darkbluerabbit on 01 Oct 2007, 16:00
Thank you for convincing me (and providing a link because I am lazy).  I couldn't decide whether to laugh or cry... I just kinda did both like at the end.  Except I don't wear nearly enough makeup to get the effect.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: carrotosaurus on 01 Oct 2007, 16:32
Sun Kil Moon's cover of Modest Mouse's "Ocean Breathes Salty"
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: jaydot on 01 Oct 2007, 17:38
i'm a pretty big fan of fiona apple's cover of across the universe.  much moreso than rufus wainwright's. it comes across as too big.  her version's understated and quiet.  pretty sweet. 

also, radiohead's cover of The Thief by Can is pretty epic.  most of my other favorites have been mentioned.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Gemmwah on 04 Oct 2007, 17:18
Ween -> Killola - "Dr Rock"

So much better when they do it.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: WriterofAllWrongs on 04 Oct 2007, 17:42
Patti Smith's version of My Generation is excellent.

That's an impressive amount of fail.  You deserve an award.  I'm not saying the cover was not good, but Daltry and Townshend's combined energy and purpose far outstrips Patti Smith's frenetic performance.

Siouxsie & The Banshees - Dear Prudence
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Catacombs on 04 Oct 2007, 17:55
Social Distortion - Tainted Love

also Alkaline Trio's "Metro"
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Liz on 04 Oct 2007, 18:15
I heard a cover of "Beautiful World" by Coldplay that was probably one of the most amazing things ever. It had beat boxing.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Hobbs on 04 Oct 2007, 18:37
ctrl+f tells me that nobody has mentioned Children of Bodom covering Brittney Spears "Oops I did it Again." Even though theres not much remake going on in it the song is at least 3000x better than the original
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: muteKi on 04 Oct 2007, 20:59
I am currently in the process of singing along to the Richard Cheese cover of Baby Got Back. Fucking hilarious.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Kai on 04 Oct 2007, 21:32
Patti Smith's version of My Generation is excellent.

That's an impressive amount of fail.  You deserve an award.  I'm not saying the cover was not good, but Daltry and Townshend's combined energy and purpose far outstrips Patti Smith's frenetic performance.

Siouxsie & The Banshees - Dear Prudence

I disagree; I think the Patti Smith version is far more interesting.

But I like Patti Smith leagues more than The Who.

Also The Beatles' Dear Prudence is still better, sorry.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Storm Rider on 04 Oct 2007, 22:09
Whoa whoa, are you trashing on the Who, man?

I don't think we can be friends anymore.

I'm changing the treehouse password.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: WriterofAllWrongs on 04 Oct 2007, 22:22
Quote
Also The Beatles' Dear Prudence is still better, sorry.

The Beatles' Dear Prudence is probably the only Beatles song that I would call bland.  Siouxsie's is far more interesting, but then again everything that group does is interesting in some way or another.

Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: ThinWhiteDuke09 on 05 Oct 2007, 05:41
I totally forgot about Shiny Toy Guns' cover of Taco's version of "Putting on the Ritz" I was really into it for a while.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Katherine on 05 Oct 2007, 08:15
I like The Get Up Kids' version of Alec Eiffel better than The Pixies' version.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: michaelicious on 05 Oct 2007, 08:23
That's an impressive amount of fail.  You deserve an award.  I'm not saying the cover was not good, but Daltry and Townshend's combined energy and purpose far outstrips Patti Smith's frenetic performance.

Where can I collect this award?
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: carrotosaurus on 05 Oct 2007, 10:54
BONNIE PRINCE BILLY AND TORTOISE COVERING THUNDER ROAD OMG YOU GUYS WHY HAS THIS NOT WON YET
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: Johnny C on 05 Oct 2007, 11:25
Because it's fantastic, but not better.

"That's Pep," though?
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: zerozero on 05 Oct 2007, 23:08
Johnny Cash's version of "Personal Jesus" was far better than the original.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: SeanBateman on 06 Oct 2007, 10:42
Petra Haden did a version of "Don't Stop Believing" that may or may not be better than the original.

It's hard to say, because the original is the best song ever.

But her version is very very good
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: WriterofAllWrongs on 06 Oct 2007, 12:38
That's an impressive amount of fail.  You deserve an award.  I'm not saying the cover was not good, but Daltry and Townshend's combined energy and purpose far outstrips Patti Smith's frenetic performance.

Where can I collect this award?

At all local participating QC forums.  You need eight proofs of purchase, though.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: estabrookette on 07 Oct 2007, 16:42
I am a big fan of Tori Amos covers. 

I agree!  I have a cover of "Ain't No Sunshine" by her that is pretty awesome.
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: KharBevNor on 07 Oct 2007, 17:07
Coil - Tainted Love

They made it a song about AIDS, and donated all the proceeds to charity. Also, the video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_YAOq4EFbU) largely consists of Marc Almond pouring honey over flies! Great stuff.

Sol Invictus - Death of the West

This was originally done by Death in June, though Wakeford wrote it, I think. Sol's version is slightly re-arranged and re-worded, and Wakeford always sounded better spouting the directly political stuff, whereas Douglas P should stick firmly to the cryptic gay crypto-fascist stuff we love him for.

Current 93 - Summer of Love

Originally Blue Oyster Cult. Current 93 improved this by making it sound totally deranged. There are various versions, and one quite crappy video made from live footage/recording spliced together with clips of the Wicker Man. I think it's from 'Since Yesterday: A Peek Into the Pit'.

And a whole slew of Laibach covers, particularly:

Laibach - Jesus Christ Superstar
Laibach - Life is Life
Laibach - War
Title: Re: Remakes that were better than the originals
Post by: muteKi on 07 Oct 2007, 17:24
Johnny Cash's version of "Personal Jesus" was far better than the original.

His cover of Redemption Song is interesting as well.