Mike Trask, that living legend of New Brunswick, is out to out do The Man in Black himself. As part of Trask’s upcoming album, TV DINNER, Trask has released his own version of “Bad News,” giving the song that Johnny Cash made famous a fresh edge.
Originally a novelty song by John D. Loudermilk, Johnny Cash released a version in 1964 that painted a sinister picture of a cavalier ne’er-do-well, a ruffian with a chip on his shoulder. What Cash brought to the song with his devil-may-care attitude, Trask has replaced with his own brand of mania.
“I been covering this solo for years. Maybe ten. Then started it with Adam about three years back when I was drummin’ and singin’. I am not sure why I picked it though,” says Trask. “I remember one night at Bearly’s I was like, ‘What can I sing…’ and I started singin’ this over a groove.”
Trask began fitting into his regular repertoire, adapting to play with his band. Three years later, when it came time to record the album, bandmate and bass player Adam Mowery suggested they squeeze it in.
“The new album was done and I was exhausted so I said, ‘You produce it and we will.’ Then we did,” laughs Trask. “The imagery always inspired me. It’s like an old western, ya know, and I watched a lot of those with my dad when I was younger. I always feel like a bit of an imposter singing it. You’ll be hard pressed to get me question the ghost of Cash.”
Fleshed out by drummer Matt Gallant, Trask’s version comes with a tasty groove and a wild energy well beyond the original. As usual, Trask is keeping things twice as interesting as anything else around.
Mike Trask’s 10th album, TV DINNER, will be available in Fall 2020.
Show Dates:
04.10.20 – Moncton, NB @ The Caveau*
04.11.20 – Saint John, NB @ Peppers Pub*
*with Keith Hallett