they don't love you like I love you

This is what I mean about cover songs. Covers are best when a band takes another band's song and uses it to say something new. So it's the same song, but it's not. It recalls the source material, doesn't mimic it. It's the difference between photocopying a famous painting and painting that same painting using your own brushes and paint. There's depth in the latter, there's feeling, there's passion.

That being said, I really, really dig this Rogue Wave cover of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs' "Maps." It comes from Sweetheart, the same Starbucks compilation album that also features A.C. Newman's take on "Take on Me." It's "Maps," certainly, but it's Rogue Waves' "Maps." It is distinct, but in a way that honors the original (instead of mocking or destroying or carbon-copying it). It's the kind of cover that someone could like more the original because it is its own song. Its own gorgeous song.

It makes me feel like I'm lying outside under the stars.


"Maps" is actually an oft-covered song. It makes sense. It's a simple song, with a beautiful and memorable melody. Honestly, I have yet to come across a bad version. Notably, Arcade Fire does a passionately earnest version, and Ted Leo uses it as the bridge to his cover of "Since U Been Gone" giving it an epic urgency.

Also, when I happen to sing the song as a member of one of my Rock Band bands, the vocals are a breathtaking combination of strength and vulnerability that have brought a crowded room to the brink of tears. Not to brag or anything.

The Dinosaur in Brooklyn "Take on Me" Promise

Namely, whenever I discover a cover of A-ha's "Take on Me," it will be reported here. I've already gone on about my love of RAC's version of the song (so good!). It is undoubtedly, as RAC said, "by far the catchiest song of the 80's."

On that note, A.C. Newman has covered the timeless tune for (of all things) a Starbucks compilation album. I take back all my evil thoughts about Starbucks. If Starbucks is the reason this cover exists, than it's OK by me.

Being played by A.C. Newman (of New Pornographers fame), it unfolds in a more mellow and acoustic manner, ala Challengers. I really enjoy the keyboard bringing back the signature riff in a delightfully bright manner during the bridge. And unlike in RAC's version, A.C., while relying on an at-times-heavy reverb, there is no audible auto-tune. I like that.

Take it away, Carl!

Because as long as there is music, there will be "Take on Me."