Eddie writesTake Two: “I Can Change” (LCD Soundsystem Vs. Ezra Furman)

written by Eddie Sayago

There is a chance that you have come across a song (or two, or so many more) that you enjoy and did not realize that it's either been covered by someone else or is a cover itself. We hope that this series allows you to appreciate both the original and the covers they have inspired, and to seek out and enjoy new music in the process.

"You are encouraged to look up the original versions if you're never heard them. They blew my mind."  - Ezra Furman, on the joy of song covers

Last year, Ezra Furman released an exclusive EP, Songs by Others, that had seven different takes on seven songs from different parts of rock 'n' roll. While any of the songs could have been featured here, one cover stands out in particular, especially since this time 10 years ago, many of us were eagerly anticipating the new album from the original creators of "I Can Change."

The Original: "I Can Change" by LCD Soundsystem (2010)

Exactly a decade ago, James Murphy and Co. released what was then their final album, This Is Happening, an album that would become one of the best of the year, if not the 2010s. Literally the center (track 5 of 9) of a record filled with Murphy's emotions no amount of synthesizers can hide, both vocals and synths blend together instead of competing with one another for the ears of the listener. "I Can Change" is the perfect song for a soundtrack to 2010, a year that feels and looks like it took place a lot longer than 10 years ago.

The Cover: "I Can Change" by Ezra Furman (2019)

Songs by Others was recorded in both a studio and on-site (a couple of tracks were performed live). "I Can Change" sounds like it was recorded in a sparse bedroom with little more than a guitar and sorta-off mic vocals. This rendition can be heard as romantic, tragic, farcical, or all at once, which makes it even more poignant.  -ES

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