“Maps” Served by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, White Stripes, and Arcade Fire
Is there any song more dangerously nostalgic than “Maps,” by New York City band the Yeah Yeah Yeahs?
Not really.
Since the song’s release, many bands have covered the track. Although there are few studio recordings of it, “Maps” has attracted the famous likes of blues rock duo the White Stripes and indie all-stars Arcade Fire. Three servings, coming up.
Released in 2003 on their debut album, Fever to Tell, the song is a romantic indie ballad to a lover, with lead singer Karen O. sweetly crooning, “Wait, they don’t love you like I love you.”
When the White Stripes do a cover, they do a cover. The track is saturated in bluesy notes and we can hear Jack White’s signature faltering falsetto.
Arcade Fire’s cover is a bit more direct, with Régine Chassagne (the band’s every woman who sings and plays the drums, accordion, xylophone, keyboard and organs) singing the lyrics and occasionally sharing vocal duties with lead singer (and husband) Win Butler. Chassagne does her best Karen O. impression, and the effect is quite lovely. And it’s nice to know that such a romantic song is sung by a real-life couple.
Forgive me while I go swoon now.
Keep it loud
