In 1969, Crosby, Stills and Nash began their first steps into music history with their self-titled debut album, recorded with the legendary Paul Rothchild. Amid the heavyweight hits was ‘Helplessly Hoping’.
Described by Stills at the time as ‘a real country song, as opposed to all those plastic Hollywood country songs by plastic country groups I read are happening now.’ It would later go on to be released as b-side for ‘Marrakesh Express’.
As the revolution of ’68 faded, they delivered the purist of country songs; isolated and longing for better days.
It’s easy to see why Massachusetts based Ryan Montbleau & Tall Heights have hooked up once more. Seeking their idols sense of friendship and togetherness in these days of lock-down is a rare moment of serenity and hope.
For the most part, it’s a like for like cover. Why would you rearrange greatness after all? However, proving that all the great days don’t lie in the past, they exquisitely deliver solemn, almost King Creosote piece of orchestration. It captures John Williams’ genius as Luke, alone on Tatooine, knows a better life lies on the dangerous horizons he surveys.