Indie Bands Tackle Neil Young Classics for Charity Compilation
Modest Mouse and My Morning Jacket have recorded covers of Neil Young's "Barstool Blues" and "Like a Hurricane" for the Heart of Gold compilation series, with volumes two and three arriving November 6. Modest Mouse collaborated with Califone, while My Morning Jacket enlisted the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. The project benefits California's Bridge School, and future contributions include MJ Lenderman, Kurt Vile, and Lucinda Williams.
The upcoming volumes feature a diverse array of artists. Alongside the two headline acts, King Princess and Draco Rosa have already contributed tracks, while MJ Lenderman, Kurt Vile, Lucinda Williams, and Ben Gibbard are slated for future installments. All proceeds support the Bridge School.
Modest Mouse's frontman initially attempted "Cortez the Killer" but found it too time-consuming. He pivoted to "Barstool Blues" for its personal resonance, deliberately giving the arrangement a Krautrock flavor to distinguish it from Young's original. He described the experience as a rewarding yet stressful honor.
This compilation could introduce Neil Young's catalog to younger indie audiences through familiar voices, potentially revitalizing interest in his classic work. The charity aspect may also encourage fans to donate or attend the Bridge School's events, providing crucial support for students with severe speech and physical impairments. For the participating artists, these covers could broaden their appeal and solidify their standing within the broader rock canon.