Fans of Wilco may know that Jeff Tweedy is a big fan of Bill Fay. His cover of Fay’s “Be Not So Fearful” appeared in the documentary I Am Trying to Break Your Heart, and Wilco has also played the song live on several occasions, with Fay joining them for a few of them.
Recently Tweedy got the chance to work with Fay in the studio, singing a verse on “This World.” This isn’t the first time that Tweedy has gotten to work with some of his musical heroes. He’s also collaborated with Nick Lowe and Mavis Staples. If this wasn’t enough of an honor, Fay also includes a cover of Wilco’s “Jesus Etc.”on his new album.
Musically, “This World” sounds like a more laid back Springsteen song, with guitar strums recalling some of the songs on The Rising, or a more straightforward Wilco song, especially when the keys come in.
As the title might suggest, “This World” features reflections on life and the world. Fay has had plenty of time to reflect, as over 40 years had passed since he released his previous album.
Fay’s new album, Life is People, is available now via Dead Oceans. Check out “This World” and Fay’s cover of “Jesus Etc.” below.
Kind of Bleu 