The Eighty Six Seas covers The National

The Eighty Six Seas has taken on the ambitious task of covering The National’s “I Need My Girl”, a song that has a significant place in his own musical journey, as well as in the hearts of music fans around the world. The result is a beautiful rendition that captures the essence of the original while adding an entirely unique spin and ushers in the next chapter of the artist’s sonic evolution.

Nick Stevens, the man behind The Eighty Six Seas, has been crafting thematic folk pop for years. The Brooklyn-based artist draws inspiration from a range of genres and styles, from David Gray to the world of electronica music. This diverse background has allowed him to create a sound that is both refreshing and captivating.

With his cover, Stevens showcases his skills as a producer and arranger. He blends acoustic and electronic elements to create a sound that is distinctly his own. The track starts with the lead refrain carried by a lone synth line backed by sparse piano chords that set the tone for the rest of the song. As his voice enters, he spins the first verse before featured artist Elly Kace‘s delicate vocals come in with a punchy beat. The electronic drums and synth pads slowly build up the tension, creating a sense of anticipation.

Elly Kace’s vocals are a standout feature of the track. Her delivery is emotive and nuanced, capturing the complexities of the relationship at the heart of the song. She effortlessly navigates the highs and lows of the melody, adding depth and texture to the arrangement. Her performance is complemented by Stevens’ vocals, which add a layer of warmth and intimacy to the track to deliver a truly stunning duet.

The track builds up to a beautiful climax, with the drums and synth pads creating a wall of sound that’s powerful and emotional as the crescendo of percussion, rich instrumental tapestries the the two artist’s vocal line weave amongst each other in a gliding, effortless and elegant fashion.

Overall, The Eighty Six Seas’ cover of “I Need My Girl” is a beautiful interpretation that captures the essence of the original while adding a completely new twist. Stevens’ arrangement is rousing and colourful, allowing both his and Elly Kace’s vocals to shine. The combination of acoustic and electronic elements creates a sound that’s both modern and timeless and serves as a testament to Stevens’ talent as a producer and arranger, and a sign of great things to come from The Eighty Six Seas.

Listen to I Need My Girl below