Mandy Moore – Coverage (2003) – CD review –

There have been some bizarre cover albums over the years, and this is certainly one of them.  Coverage finds pop princess Mandy Moore tackling a music geek’s Ipod playlist.  The strangest thing about it is that she actually pulls it off.

The disc opens with her take on “Senses Working Overtime,” for shock purposes, I’m sure.  Moore doing alternative stalwarts XTC…seems like a good chuckle.  Yet, Moore turns this classic staple of college radio into the pop gem it probably should have been, if only it’s original lead singer (Andy Partridge) could actually sing.  She handles other obscure songs by the Waterboys and Joan Armatrading equally well.

The rest of the album is made up of brainy hits by classic rock icons like Joni Mitchell and Elton John.  “Anticipation” from Carly Simon is given a twangy edge, while Moore actually matches the ethereal feel of Todd Rundgren’s original of “Can We Still Be Friends.”  A key here is that there are several opportunities to over-sing, but Moore never takes the bait.  She simply shows that she’s got a great voice and a pretty good intuition for offering the right approach to these hallowed songs.

This should have been a laugh-fest.  Instead, it’s a fun listen.

Coverage was supposed to have been her breakthrough into the serious adult market.  She’s since released two albums of totally original music, but has been met with the same public indifference.  Too bad, maybe they should put on this disc and lighten up a little. –Tony Peters