In 1986, Jennifer Warnes released Famous Blue Raincoat: The Songs of Leonard Cohen. At the time, I primarily remembered Warnes from her 1977 hit “Right Time of the Night,” while I was just beginning to explore Leonard Cohen’s music.
My friend Raj Malelu suggested that I give the album a listen, and it turned out to be the best of all possible worlds. Cohen’s own performances are certainly enjoyable, but I often find that his songs become more immediate when interpreted by other artists. This is the album that first led me to that conclusion.
I had no idea Warnes’s voice could be so emotional and eloquent. She brings warmth and clarity to Cohen’s writing without diminishing its mystery or darkness. Her history with Cohen—she had toured and recorded with him—also gives the performances an understanding that goes much deeper than an ordinary collection of covers. It is an exceptional album.
My favorite track is “Joan of Arc,” which Cohen originally released in 1971. The song unfolds as a dialogue between Joan and the fire that is consuming her. Warnes sings the part of Joan, while Cohen becomes the fire. Hearing their voices answer each other transforms an already remarkable song into something dramatic, intimate and haunting.