Cover Magazine cover

Cover Magazine

Giant Sand · 2001

62 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

A genre-blurring collection of covers infused with alternative rock sensibilities and eclectic instrumentation that reinterprets familiar songs.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    El Paso / Out on the Weekend — This opening track combines two distinct narratives, illustrating Giant Sand's knack for blending storytelling with rich musical textures, setting the tone for the album.
  • →
    Johnny Hit and Run Pauline — The band infuses this classic with a raw energy that transforms the original's urgency into a haunting reflection, exemplifying their reimagining skill.
  • →
    Red Right Hand — Giant Sand's rendition offers a darker, more atmospheric take on Nick Cave’s iconic track, adding depth and a sense of foreboding that enhances its narrative power.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • kaleidoscopic soundscapes to explore
  • playful reinterpretations of classics
  • live tracks for concert vibes
  • easygoing background for gatherings
  • short bursts of nostalgia

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward single tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Cover Magazine' was released in 2001, Giant Sand had evolved into a staple of the alternative rock scene, building on their established reputation from previous albums like 'Chore of Enchantment' (1998). This album marked a creative pivot as it featured a range of covers, showcasing their ability to reinterpret classics while still crafting an unmistakably unique sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Calexico· The Jayhawks· Son Volt

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 El Paso / Out on the Weekend 6:49
  • 2 Johnny Hit and Run Pauline 3:07
  • 3 Iron Man 4:33
  • 4 Human / Lovely Head 5:07
  • 5 The Beat Goes On 6:06
  • 6 Plants and Rags 3:05
  • 7 Wayfaring Stranger / Fly Me to the Moon 4:48
  • 8 Red Right Hand 4:40
  • 9 King of the Road 2:55
  • 10 I'm Leaving Now 2:06
  • 11 Blue Marble Girl (live) 9:27
  • 12 The Inner Flame (live) 6:37
  • 13 The Beat Goes On (live) 2:46

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata