This cover of “Jeane” is my tribute to The Smiths, who have been an important influence on me since 1985. I never took guitar lessons, but I did buy a “Meat Is Murder” songbook and learn to play the songs as best I could. Without the Smiths, The Persian Leaps would still exist, but we’d sound very different, with less jangle and happier lyrics.
This propulsive and addictive rendition of one of The Smiths‘ lesser known tracks celebrates the band’s colossal body of work and the impact it has had on so many people. Originally released in 1983 as the B-side to ‘This Charming Man’ on 7-inch vinyl, it would later be re-released in several formats in 1992.
Despite being a huge fan of The Smiths since 1985, I’d never heard “Jeane” until 5-10 years ago. The song blew me away. It’s not unusual to track down a rarity or B-side and find it interesting if underwhelming, but “Jeane” felt to me like an essential Smiths song that’s been unfairly overlooked. It also sounds unfinished to me–as though with a few more takes and some production love, it could have been an A-side. I’d always wanted to cover a Smiths song, and “Jeane” felt like one I could put my own mark on and perhaps even introduce to people who don’t know the original.
released September 13, 2023
Drew Forsberg – Vocals, guitars, keyboards, bass, drum programming
The Persian Leaps is an indie rock/power pop band from Saint Paul, Minnesota. New single “Jeane” (Smiths cover) out now!,
The Fat Angel Sings 