Shannon Lay Covers Elliott Smith’s “Angeles” for New Album: Listen

Shannon Lay has announced covers vol. 1, a collection of covers on April 14 via Sub Pop. “I love doing covers,” Lay said in a statement, “It’s my pleasure to offer my perspective on the songs I admire and spread the word about amazing artists. covers vol. 1 It’s the first in a series of covers that celebrate my obsession with shannonizing songs.” The album includes covers of songs by Ty Segall, The Velvet Underground, Arthur Russell, Vashti Bunyan and more.

Watch the Kai MacKnight-directed video accompanying Lay’s cover of Elliott Smith’s “Angeles” below. Of the cover, Lay said in a statement:

If I had a nickel for every minute I’ve spent listening to Elliott Smith, I’d be a very rich woman. The intricate consideration of her always fills me up. “Angeles” was one of those songs that I was always so intimidated to learn, but when I finally gave it a try, she just came together so naturally. Debbie Neigher then capped things off with a stunning piano finale. I love feeling the spirit of Elliott embedded in the music scene in general. Wherever notes are played, he lives.

Lay’s latest album, Geistit was released in 2021. “Rare to Wake” from that album was named one of Pitchfork’s “100 Best Songs of 2021”.