Kevin Dunn - Big Iron
Country, Folk, Americana
Gloucestershire, United Kingdom
Overall Impression: Having previously reviewed Kevin Dunn's excellent interpretation of the cowboy classic "The Cowboy's Lament", I went into "Big Iron" with both great excitement and rather high expectations having already experienced Kevin's country magic, and it's safe to say those high expectations were certainly met. This time covering the Marty Robbins classic "Big Iron", Kevin once again injects his own marvelous sense of musicianship into the mix to craft another thoroughly rewarding listening experience that manages to pay respect to the original as well as proudly and confidently stand on its own two feet as a fantastic fresh reinterpretation. Any great cover should be able to strike the perfect balance between keeping the specific characteristic flavors of the original whilst also justifying the cover's own existence by means of doing something new and fresh with the material, and Kevin has done just this. Wonderfully performed, superbly arranged, and boasting a detail-rich recording, this is an exceptional cover that Marty Robbins would surely be proud of.
Strongest Point(s): The change in tempo from the original is a great decision, whereas Marty's version had a more energetic and immediate feel to it, this version cleverly slows things down to present a more balladesque take on the source material. There are two clear positives to this creative decision, firstly, it puts a very different angle on the original and allows audiences more time to absorb both the lyrics and intricate nature of the performances in a more relaxed and thought-provoking way, and secondly, this slower tempo is perfectly paired with Kevin's highly nuanced and delicate vocal style. The graceful and highly expressive nature of Kevin's vocals lends itself well to these slower tempos, whether it'd be those superb free-flowing harmony sections or Kevin's excellent use of glissando, every nuance can be thoroughly absorbed by the listener.
Target Audience Appeal: This is country done right and lovers of the style will surely find themselves connecting with this excellent cover.
Artist target suggestions: Marty Robbins, Lonestar, The Highwaymen, Kris Kristofferson, Alabama, Guy Clark, Danny Vera, Willie Nelson, Alan Jackson, Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Christy Moore, Ralph McTell, Brooks & Dunn
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.