A Review Rich Lerner's new CD, Cover Down, features terrific cover versions of 11 Dylan tunes. It's an eclectic collection, featuring familiar pieces like Forever Young and Simple Twist of Fate, and underappreciated gems like Covenant Woman. The band is terrific. Think MTV Unplugged. Gorgeously recorded acoustic instruments.
Guitars are crisp and clean.
Bassist Dave Talley really shines throughout, his liquid and slippery basslines opening up songs in ways Brother Bob probably never dreamed. The arrangements are familiar, but not too familiar. In fact when they stretch the tunes furthest is when they're most successful, like in their version of Changing of the Guard. There are neat touches throughout, Sammy Smith's tender work in Simple Twist of Fate, and piano flourishes by Jason Flegel in Every Grain of Sand. I imagine Bob would be pleased with these results.