Teddy Thompson - Upfront & Down Low (Album)
Upfront & Down Low is Teddy Thompson’s beautiful tribute to classic Americana, the album comprises covers of such artists as Ernest Tubb, Dolly Parton and George Jones.I have to say for such a young artist it’s a big move to record an album of such obscure cover’s but it defiantly pays off, Teddy’s evocative voice captures the sadness and some what darkness of these great country gems.
One of the better known highlights is the 'I’m Left, Your Right, She’s Gone' originally done by Elvis Presley, the song is punctured by a slick guitar solo by Marc Ribot who is one of Tom Waits cohorts.The string arrangements are conducted by the great Robert Kirby who arranged all those beautiful Nick Drake albums years ago. The connection between Kirby and Thompson is made by Teddy’s famous father Richard who played on Bryter Later one of Nick Drake's classic albums.
Considering Teddy’s background of coming from a family of folk legend’s this album works amazingly, Teddy really has adopted these songs and added a significant touch on each one. That’s the key point of doing covers it’s making your own distinct stamp and twisting the song around a bit, that’s why so many cover versions are so crap, because there is no difference between from the original.
One of the other highlights is the duet Teddy and Iris Dement with the song 'My Heart Echoes' which is remincent of those beautiful duets done by George Jones and Loretta Lynn.
Upfront & Down Low won't find it’s way to the top of the charts it will only appeal to a niche audience but the people who do go out of their way to take a punt on this album will be rewarded with an album that will evoke memories for fans of classic country.
