Covert Stations is a collaborative covers project started by Craig Cirinelli (Hidden Cabins, The Atlantic Union Project). They have recently released covers of classic tracks by The Cult and Psychedelic Furs and have now returned with their unique version of the REM classic “The One I Love”.
Not being a huge REM guy myself, but respecting their place in music history, I am not one who could be off put by a reinterpretation of one of their songs. Luckily, this is one of the more likeable tracks - it’s catchy and hooky, but still layered with a veil of dread that seems to permeate every REM song in my mind.
Covert Stations’ version kicks off with a sweet little drum fill that mirrors the original (I checked), but with a louder, wider drum sound. The guitars are thick and heavy, playing the noodling parts originally performed with thin guitar tones. Unsurprisingly, the vocals are a clear highlight, as Cirinelli’s vocal range and capacity to sing different genres and styles effectively has already been well established. The guitars are also extremely well executed including a gritty, noisy solo serving as a bit of a climax nearing the end of the song. Overall, this is an excellent reinvention of an old REM track, adding depth and the weight of a rock song to a less abrasive, indie rock classic.