Natalie Prass – “Caught Up In The Rapture” (Anita Baker Cover) (Stereogum Premiere)

Natalie Prass – “Caught Up In The Rapture” (Anita Baker Cover) (Stereogum Premiere)

We recently learned that Natalie Prass would be following up her stellar self-titled debut with the Side By Side EP, which features live readings of two original tracks plus previously unheard covers of Grimes, Simon & Garfunkel, and Anita Baker. Today we share the Baker cover, “Caught Up In The Rapture.”

Whereas the original was a study in luxuriant ’80s soul of the easy listening variety, Prass converts it to more of an old-school Motown sound. Raw yet dreamy instrumentation gorgeously contrasts with her signature vocals — lighter than air, brighter than the sun, yet tinged with a familiar sadness even when describing the elation that comes with love. It makes me wonder whether Prass should do a whole album of old soul covers someday. (Actually, I don’t wonder; she should do it.) Listen below along with Baker’s original recording.

Side By Side is out 11/20 via StarTime International. Read our recent interview with Prass here.

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