As many of you know, I’m not generally a fan of covers. I know that there are some amazing covers out there.
All Along the Watch Tower by Jimi
Hurt by Jonny Cash
Because the Night by Patti Smith
And there are a few more. I think it’s just that we get use to the way a song sounds and it is ingrained in us from the first time we hear it. Especially if it’s a song that hits us both sonically and lyrically. Not all of us hear music the same way, that’ what makes us all special and drawn to certain types of music genres.
But, this time I want to talk about a little know band out of Southern California called Tribe of Gypsies. Formerly the backing band for Bruce Dickinson during his solo time away from Iron Maiden. The Tribe brings a certain south of the boarder vibe and makes Ain’t Talkin’ ‘bout Love their own.
I don’t think anyone can listen to Ain’t Takin’ ‘bout Love and not hear Eddie’s great guitar work, or Michael’s driving base rift. Or it could be the Diamond Dave’s crash and burn delivery of the lyrics. The song with it’s two cords was more in line with Punk and really helped set the stage for future metal songs. However, in contrast, the Tribe delivers a more melodic version that is both dark and laid back compared to the Van Halen original. Where on version takes you to a dark underground bar drinking whisky, the other version takes you to an open air cantina drinking tequila.
Released in 2006, the band members:
Roy Z : guitars, vocals
Chas West : vocals
Ray Rodriguez : keyboards
Elvis Balladares : percussion
David Moreno : drums
Christian Byrne - guitar, bass
Juan Perez : bass
This is one band that deserves more. So much more.