Joanna Newsom Tribute Album Due

A new tribute album to Joanna Newsom has been announced featuring M Ward and more.

Joanna Newsom is an utterly distinct talent. Returning with a new triple album earlier this year, her material could not have been written by anyone else. Using that voice the album ransacked traditional influences to produce something new.

A hugely influential artist, Joanna Newsom has been covered countless times. In the past year, Bombay Bicycle Club and Trophy Wife have both released unusual versions of her material, utilising the lyrics with different music.

Now a new charity album brings together a wide array of talent to tackle her material. Joanna Newsom’s output will be covered by a disparate bunch, with all proceeds being awarded to Oxfam.

Amusingly titled ‘Versions Of Joanna’ the album contains over twenty tracks, pushing her music in several different directions. Opening with a rendition of ’81’ by Francesco Santocono the record contains some unusual renditions.

Never noted for his vocal gymnastics, Billy Bragg tackles ‘On A Good Day’. One of two versions of the track on the album, Kristina Forrer has also donated a recording of the Newsom song.

Elsewhere, Joel Cathey and Guy Buttery record ‘Book Of Right-On’ although Buttery contributes an instrumental. Other names on the tracklisting include Josh Mann, Chris Leeds, Melissa Stylianou and M Ward.

A noted songwriter in his own right, M Ward has recorded a version of ‘Sadie’ for the forthcoming album. Elsewhere, The Moscow Coup Attempt, This Is Deer Country and more take part.

‘Versions Of Joanna’ is a digital only release, due out in December.