Outside Pedestrian’s version of Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring
Good Day Noir Family,
When you think of Bach, the image that usually comes to mind is one of intricate counterpoint, centuries-old tradition, and the cold, reverent atmosphere of a cathedral.
Outside Pedestrian’s version of Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring
Outside Pedestrian, however, has no interest in playing it safe, and their latest cover of Bach’s iconic Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring proves just how far outside the box they’re willing to go.
Right from the opening notes, the band takes what is widely regarded as a sacred classic and drapes it in an entirely new coat.
Instead of the polished, formal quality of traditional renditions, we’re thrust into an atmosphere that’s immediately more familiar, more human. Picture New York on a chilly winter’s day, the steam rising from subway grates, people gathering in cozy cafes, sipping tea as the city hums around them.
This is the world Outside Pedestrian invites us into — one where Bach meets the soul of jazz, with a touch of the urban warmth that feels like an Edward Hopper painting come to life.
The first thing that stands out is the track’s rhythmic freedom. The jazz-infused vibe brings a laid-back groove that seems to capture both the melancholy and comfort of winter. The subtle piano lines ground the melody, while the bass and drums give the arrangement an easy, almost seductive flow.
But then comes the moment of surprise: a guitar solo that begins with the complexity of prog rock before it morphs into a smooth Santana-esque melody that is simply gorgeous. It’s like hearing an entirely new interpretation of something old — a transformation that’s as unexpected as it is satisfying.
Speaking of solos, the drum solo that follows is another highlight. It’s bold, energetic, and feels like a break from the more tranquil atmosphere established earlier.
The way the band blends these seemingly disparate moments — the serene opening, the jazz infusion, the prog-rock exploration, and the Latin-tinged guitar solos — is what truly sets this version apart.
Ultimately, Outside Pedestrian’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring isn’t just a cover; it’s a bold reimagining of a classic, and one that brings a fresh perspective to a piece of music that could have easily been left untouched.
Outside Pedestrian’s version of Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring!
Transformative!
Outside Pedestrian’s version of Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring
Outside Pedestrian updates this holiday classic with a polyrhythmic jazz rock arrangement.
Combining an eclectic mix of influences from jazz to modern metal, chamber music to rock, Outside Pedestrian takes on the spirit of fusion while creating their own genre defying voice in the twenty-first century. With each musician being accomplished in a wide range of styles, Outside Pedestrian’s voice emerges as a fresh new sound in contemporary instrumental music.
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