In 1987, Jennifer Warnes released an album of Leonard Cohen songs entitled Famous Blue Raincoat. At the time, I remembered Warnes from a 1977 hit, but I was just starting to get into Leonard Cohen.
My friend Raj suggested I give this album a listen, and it was the best of all possible worlds. I feel that Cohen’s material, while enjoyable as he performed it, is usually more tangible in the interpretation of other artists. This is the album that led to that feeling. I didn’t know Warnes voice could be so emotional and eloquent, and she gave these songs a touch that the originals did not always have. It is an exceptional album.
My favorite is “Joan of Arc” and it includes Leonard Cohen on vocals which is a triple treat. Don’t miss this.