If you occupy one of several specific corners of modern society, you may regularly find yourself discussing Kurt Cobain. The Nirvana bandleader has breached widespread discussion a good deal lately. You may have caught Kid Cudi’s tribute to the late artist on a recent episode of Saturday Night Live, for instance; and the news of Dave Grohl’s forthcoming memoir no doubt ignited hope of yet unheard stories about Cobain backstage. Well, if you’re already in a Nirvana-centric mindset, you may enjoy this cheeky cover of their (arguably) most famous song.
The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain put a crisp new spin on “Smells Like Teen Spirit” a few years back; the tune marks one of many rock and pop hits that the group has rendered anew with their trademark sound. We caught sight of the cover by way of Laughing Squid, and you can watch the recording right here.
A remarkably distinct vibe from the original’s, but a worthwhile listen nonetheless. And we’re not surprised by the oomph with which The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain treats the iconic number; the group has been in business since 1985, and has turned out countless great covers over the years. This cover of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” comes from their 2007 album Precious Little; that’s just one of more than two dozen studio and live albums the band has released.
Cobain’s name may be coming up even more frequently than usual lately given the recent anniversary of the musician’s death. But for some, Cobain is never far from mind or mouth; the music Cobain created has sustained for more than three decades for many reasons. Its empathy, its vigor, its vivid articulation of some of the toughest emotions we contend with. But while we’re lucky to have Kurt’s music, it’s an unending tragedy that we lost Kurt.
Featured Image: The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain