Gazing with Tranquility: A Tribute to Donovan

Liner Note Authors: Scott Herold; Lissie.
This covers compilation of tunes by Scottish folk legend Donovan features an indie-strong selection of 15 musical acts, among them the Flaming Lips, Sharon Van Etten, and Hamilton Leithauser of the Walkmen. Interpretations are varied and include a rock/hip-hop/gospel-inspired version of "Atlantic" by ex-Replacements drummer Chris Mars as Mixd Up Kidz, an expectedly trippy take on the same song by the Flaming Lips, Van Etten's delay- and wind chimes-juiced "Teen Angel," and a sultry and dramatic "Lalena" by Eau Claire, Wisconsin-native singer/songwriter Savannah Smith. Faithful versions include Colony House's "Sunshine Superman" and a sweetly harmonized "Catch the Wind" by Ivan & Alyosha. Released on the nonprofit Rock the Cause Records label, Gazing with Tranquility: A Tribute to Donovan's proceeds benefit the nonprofit Huntington's Hope, which offers support to families dealing with Huntington's disease. ~ Marcy Donelson