‘The Bottle’ is the first single to be taken from the as-yet-untitled album and is the lead track on a limited edition EP, which features another two covers as b-sides.  A song about the dangers of alcohol, it was originally a hit for American poet and jazz/funk musician Gil Scott Heron in 1968.  The original version was a typical late 60s/early 70s affair, sleazy sounding bass dominating the occasional guitar lick, topped off with soulful vocals. 

Weller’s version is far more urgent, quick acoustic guitars forcing the tune on, his ragged vocal style assisting in the rush.  It reminds you of Weller’s Style Council days in bits and retains the funk influence of the original, bass zipping up and down and horns all over the place, but it doesn’t quite capture the essence of the original.  As cover versions go it’s a competent update, but it’s never more than okay.

The b-sides are ‘Corrina Corrina’, a cover influenced by New York blues legend Taj Mahal, and ‘Coconut Grove’, a cover of the song originally recorded by 60’s rock/folk group Lovin’ Spoonful.  ‘Corrina’ is an acoustic song with harmonica drifting in and out in the background, reminiscent of ‘My Sweetpea’ from Helioscentric. ‘Coconut’ is similar, a dreamy acoustic number with electric sliding in and out, provided by long time Weller collaborator Steve Craddock.  Both are fine but again aren’t really special.

As cover versions go this EP is as competent as you would expect from Weller, but it lacks a certain something to make you sit up and notice.  Covers are always hard to pull off and while given his lengthy career he can hardly be blamed for trying, he must in his own mind admit that even his most ardent fans aren’t exactly overwhelmed by the prospect of a full album of this.  That Jam reunion tour might not be as far off as you think.
(3/5)

Release Date: 14 June 2004

The Bottle