The Freight – Cool (2023)
Traipsing all flavours of rock with a dash of soul and blues in the mix, US-based band The Freight is not one to be pigeon-holed. From their debut single ‘Show Me’ (released in 2020) to 2023’s ‘See Ya’, the lads have made waves on the music scene described as “…a band on the up” (FV Music Blog). In fact, ‘Show Me’ and the following track ‘Fish & A Bike’ hit and topped the iTunes Blues Chart. The Freight has turned our head a couple of times and all to critical acclaim, but now we’re taking a gander at their most recent single ‘Cool’.
We don’t often review cover songs but The Freight’s take on Gwen Stefani’s ‘Cool’ is not to be ignored. Almost two decades after its release in 2004 as part of Stefani’s debut solo album, Love. Angel. Music. Baby., the band relooks ‘Cool’ with a rock-inspired eye.
One aspect of Gwen Stefani is the obscurity of her vocals taking me back to the days of No Doubt, and I love how that obscurity has persisted. Her solo career, however, veers greatly to the pop arena instead of rock. The Freight has come to capture her single ‘Cool’ and add that much-needed rock splash.
Produced with Jeff Rosen and Patrick DiCenso (mastering), The Freight tip ‘Cool’ on its head, toss it about and shake out an alternative rock tune. Dynamic guitars match pounding drums with a strong contemporary rock style; however, a nostalgic flair slivers within the melody adding an old-school rock sound with modern-day edginess. One aspect I find interesting is how a hint of pop is retained with the light synth opening the verses. A note needs to be made to the smooth guitar solo that truly establishes ‘Cool’ as a rock song.
Replacing Gwen Stefani on vocals is the bold singer, Erin MacKenzie. While there is no Stefani obscurity to her charming voice, warmth exudes in a passionate way making you pay attention. Elegantly carrying us along the rugged melody, MacKenzie holds you by the hand and sets a smile on your face. Add Adam Tiro’s gruffer, grittier voice and you have a duet made in heaven. Light and charming matched by rugged and harsh, the pair add a glamorous and griminess to the intoxicating ‘Cool’.
For more from The Freight, check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
