Bryan Ferry - Dylanesque

Of contemporary singers who interpret other composers’ songs, Bryan Ferry and Rod Stewart come readily to mind. Each has learned that a really great song is rare. And although they have each written memorable songs, they have had greater success with others’.

Bryan Ferry claims one career as front man for Roxy Music, and another as chanteuse (he has also been an actor and a fashion icon). His covers of John Lennon’s Jealous Guy and Wilbert Harrison’s Let’s Stick Together, along with the albums These Foolish Things and As Time Goes By, have endured as classic reinterpretations. Ferry also had some previous success with Dylan’s A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall.

Ferry’s latest is Dylanesque, which features the old master’s familiar material. Nothing could be more different than Dylan’s current raspy style of singing and Ferry’s airy, suave delivery. However, it mostly works. Especially on repeated listenings.

Simple Twist Of Fate is a gem. Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door is given new life by Ferry (exactly how many covers of this song are out there?) And the lyrics to Gates Of Eden never sounded so good. An ethereal piano-based version of Positively 4th Street now belongs to Ferry, and he stakes claim to All Along The Watchtower.

There are clunkers here, but mostly these are great compositions done in Ferry’s signature sound. Brian Eno, Isaac Ferry (Bryan’s son), and Robin Trower make cameo appearances. Production is impeccable. We recommend the liner notes more for comedy than description.

Bryan Ferry sings Bob Dylan. Ferry fans will not be disappointed.

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