matthew.gruman.org

Matthew Gruman - “Chocolate Jesus (Tom Waits cover)”

When I record something, I hit record and dump first takes of any idea that comes to mind (lather, rinse, and repeat until the computer slows down); then I pick and choose from those as a guide for the “finished” version. Unfortunately, I rarely get around to starting, let alone finishing, a “finished” version; so I have dozens of songs recorded with shitty vocals, too-many-instruments, and interesting poor tuning.

I did “Chocolate Jesus” in March, fully intending to “finish” it. I did start, but ended up hating the new stuff; then I got fairly ill and forgot about it. But I still want to do something with it, so here’s the warts-and-all version (those vocal harmonies on the last chorus? Ouch…)

Also, the worst thing about covering a Tom Waits song? Knowing that you have to choose between ever listening to the original ever again and self-esteem.