Between the Walkmen’s version on their new album, Pussy Cats, and this one by Ted Leo, “Many Rivers to Cross” seems to be just the song to cover.

MP3: Ted Leo – Many Rivers to Cross (Jimmy Cliff)
I’ve always thought of Ted Leo’s covers as an all or nothing affair. Either they rock your world like his takes on “Suspect Device” (found below) or “Dancing in the Dark,” or they’re okay at best (“The Ballad of El Goodo” or “I’m Looking Through You”). But with “Many Rivers to Cross,” Ted comes the closest to a middle ground. It’s a mournful song–not exactly his forte–but he actually makes it work. It may not ever be a part of a “best of” collection for Ted’s career, but it wouldn’t be out of place on a sweet covers compilation. His spot-on vocal delivery (aside from the odd echo) is a nice compliment to his surprisingly laid-back guitar work.

MP3: Ted Leo – Suspect Device (Stiff Little Fingers)

A little birdie told me that Ted’s wrapped up his new album and it’ll be out in Spring. True? We’ll soon see.