[listen] Chromatics’ Johnny Jewel releases Autumn mix, includes cover of New Order’s “Ceremony”

Dec 03, 2012

So, apparently it’s not winter yet? At least not according to Johnny Jewel who’s “Black & White / A Mix For Autumn” is meant to send the season out in style. At just under three quarters of an hour in length, it’s cool and fashionably clinical to a point, at least until Jewel’s tender cover of New Order’s “Ceremony” with his band Chromatics kicks in. It’s always a thing to behold when Chromatics pay homage. Their covers are vital groundings that hold the original in bald reverence while still having their own agendas. “Ceremony” eschews the original’s up-tempo percussion, creating an air of golden despondence over Ruth Radlet’s confident vocals that truly understand the song, and the sizzle of fingers sliding across guitar strings that creak like an empty house. A forceful reminder that Chromatics’ style can never overwhelm their substance, at least for those paying attention.

“Black & White / A Mix For Autumn”