Together their performance is one of pure understanding, respect, and perfectly balanced interpretation. This is all the more remarkable when you consider that these are first takes.
The first disc opens with one of the collections strongest songs. I was convinced that the intensely powerful “Down from Dover” was written either by, or very much for, Marianne herself. In fact my ignorance was revealed and I discovered that it is in fact a Dolly Parton song. Marianne projects so much of herself into the tragically strong story that it becomes almost impossible to separate the two.
Wonderful versions of Duke Ellington’s “Solitude”, and Smokey Robinson’s “Ooh Baby Baby” follow. The poignant duet of Keith and Marianne on “Sing Me Back Home” provides an emotionally charged ending to the first section.
“Salvation” featuring Sean Lennon on guitar and vocals, and Morrissey’s “Dear God Please Help Me” both add extra mystique to her choices. Marianne’s desire to perform “Somewhere (A Place For Us)” from West Side Story is nicely explained in the DVD. In short it was the show that inspired her to go on the stage. Of course it was a choice that led to a remarkably eventful life but one that also very nearly destroyed her along the way.
Survive she has, however, this album underlines that fact with a generous and well considered journey through the music she finds inspirational.
Easy Come Easy Go would have made a great single album and is available in that format. Having said that, I still strongly recommend the double deluxe edition as every recording brings something magical to the table.
Each track reveals a little more of those past glories, the dangerous derailments, and every single battle scar of those heady days in sixties Chelsea.
For more information on Marianne Faithfull please visit her official website.
Article comments