SOTD #162 // Peter Wolf Crier: 'Place To Be' (Nick Drake cover)

Minneapolis two-piece Peter Wolf Crier spent the majority of their lovely debut Inter-Be examining the depths of passion, the meaning of loss, and the source of inspiration. It seemed as if frontman Peter Pisano was searching for his true voice as the album wore on, and now that he’s clearly found it, it’s time for him to tip his cap to one of his idols, turning up the volume and the rhythm on a cover of Nick Drake’s sublime ‘Place To Be.’ It’s a feisty, spirited rendition that sounds entirely modern while still maintaining the haunting, elegant melody that makes the original track so indelible and lasting.

There is an urgency to Pisano’s voice, as there is in the insistent drumming of Brien Moen, which imbues the number with an added intensity and depth, giving Drake’s yearning lyrics an added weight and significance. Instead of being a bit lost and resigned as Drake sounds in the original, PWC’s version is determined and forceful, with Pisano confident that he will find his place in the sun despite the fearful draw of the sea. The lyrics of ‘Place To Be’ are quite minimal and abstract, which gives the band plenty of opportunity to stretch the song out with a joyous, experimental breakdown and their dynamic cadence and tempo. They inject the song with a welcome potency while still preserving the benevolent vulnerability of Drake’s version. This cover is both an homage to an artist that is still getting his due, while also providing another clear example of the blossoming majesty of Peter Wolf Crier.

Peter Wolf Crier: ‘Place To Be’ (Nick Drake cover)

Peter Wolf Crier will open for Caitlin Rose on the esteemed Twisted Folk tour this November, dates as follows:

November
15 – Brighton, Komedia
16 – London, XOYO
17 – Leeds, Brudenell
18 – Reading, South Street
19 – Bristol, Fleece
21 – Newcastle, Cluny
Mon 22 – Leicester, Musician