Single Review: Working Class Hero (John Lennon Cover)

In 1946 John Lennon almost became a Kiwi. His estranged father took him to Blackpool with the intention of heading over with John to start a new life in NZ. 

Imagine (excuse the pun) what a different world we might be living in now if that had happened? 

Coming from a  very working-class background (even Paul McCartney and his friends thought John a bit rough around the edges) is often at the core of what made Lennon such a passioned and principled musician. His voice has the perfect mix of tone and rasp always delivered with conviction. 

This tribute to John to be released on the 40th Anniversary of his untimely death is a heartfelt stripped back version of Working Class Hero

The Beatles and Lennon are probably the most covered artist in the world and if you are going to do a cover you need to make it your own.

What stirs in this version by Manzo comes in the contrast between Leona Palmers fierce vocal take which holds your attention right from the start and the minimalistic musical approach, letting the lyrics shine through. It has more of a psychedelic vibe than the originals folkiness.

It’s a faithful cover not veering too far astray and shines as a tribute to an artist the likes of which will never be seen again. 

Just imagine if John Lennon had moved to New Zealand in 1946