War Child Presents Heroes

War Child is famous for putting out creative charity compilations, but it really outdid itself this time.

The organization ambitiously asked rock legends such as Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder and Sir Paul McCartney to nominate their favourite contemporary musicians to cover one of their classics. The result is a music history lesson that comes in the form of Hot Chip singing Joy Division's "Transmission" and Lily Allen interpreting The Clash's "Straight To Hell" with that band's guitarist/singer, Mick Jones.

The modern artists were given a lot of creative freedom, but all of the songs were recorded respectfully. The collection comes across as an updated tribute rather than messy carbon copies. Standouts include TV On The Radio's dance version of David Bowie's "Heroes" and Franz Ferdinand's glammed-up take on Blondie's "Call Me."

This is definitely an album to buy. Not only does the money go to a good cause, but the record is an endearing hybrid of old and new.

Get it from