Vargen - ‘One Too Many Mornings’

Review by Matt Wong & Staff

Vargen ('The Wolf' in Swedish) is the stage and recording name of singer-songwriter Reine Johansson. Vargen's music encompasses Americana, country, blues, folk, rock. His album debut Sånger från Natten, sånger från Dan (2017) featured new music set to Swedish author Dan Andersson's (1888-1920) darker poems. Tänk inte efter (Don't Think Twice - Bob Dylan in Swedish (Vinyl/CD/DL 2019) featured new Dylan-approved translations by Vargen who collaborated with singer Mia Rosengren on the project.

After receiving international recognition for his and fellow singer Mia Rosengren's translations on 'Tänk inte efter (Don't Think Twice - Bob Dylan in Swedish),' Vargen recorded all nine tracks from that album in English. The band also recorded two new songs "One Too Many Mornings" and "Abandoned Love." Love / Leave - 11 Songs of Bob Dylan will be released worldwide on vinyl and CD on Friday June 5. The new single, "One Too Many Mornings" is a great way to get acquainted with Vargen's talent.

Vargen’s cover of Bob Dylan’s “One Too Many Mornings” begins with acoustic guitar, and bass against the sounds of wind and crickets. While the arrangement remains consistent for the duration of the song, it captures the introspective spirit of Dylan’s original rendition while presenting listeners with a fresh take on the tune.

Set to beautifully played acoustic guitar finger-picking arpeggios, Mia Rosengren's vocals enter on the first verse. Her voice is at once inviting and warm. Her captivating tone has character and depth, and her phrasing is divinely subtle - a perfect match for Dylan's music. Following two verses, a tuneful harmonica solo takes a verse, and is followed by one more verse and a tag ending.

The lyrics behind “One Too Many Mornings” tell a story of a lost love. They are deep, and reflective, and transport listeners to the scene where “Down the street the dogs are barkin’ and the day is a-getting’ dark.” Listeners will be able to experience staying for “one too many mornings” and also the feeling of being “a thousand miles behind” after the end of the relationship.

Vargen’s rendition of “One Too Many Mornings” is an example of a cover song done correctly. It features an interesting arrangement to capture a listener’s attention, and is performed in the way that the songwriter intended it to be performed. This recording is a complete package of musical excellence from its stellar vocals to its sound production choices. Fans of Dylan as well as a universal audience with fall in love with Vargen's interpretation and performance of Dylan's music. Find on Bandcamp or Amazon

Links on Songwhip

For more information on Vargen, please visit their website.

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