[Routine Builder]

Question: in terms of covers, do you prefer James's acoustic versions or the full band versions?

I generally believe that James's acoustic versions are usually far superior. Their stripped down nature seem to demonstrate the feeling and affection James has for the songs where as the studio versions feels a bit like by the numbers with the passion softened by the studio environment and possibly trying to get something to go on a b-sides. The best examples are Red Sleeping Beauty and Plain of Endless Fortune where James gave some of best vocal performances for the acoustic takes but by the time it goes to the studio, the magic is lost.