It’s rare I see a cover of such a cherished song infuse a new emotion, a new ethos, and have me replaying it with as much eagerness as Blueburst give to this one.
Blueburst’s rendition of “Train in Vain” offers a captivating reinterpretation of The Clash’s classic track. Inspired by a profound revelation during the tumultuous Summer of 2020, guitarist/vocalist Craig Douglas Miller found a new meaning within the lyrics. While originally a breakup song, Miller saw it as an opportunity to convey the disillusionment and disappointment felt by many Americans during that time. The band approached the cover with a somber tone, adding a layer of introspection and melancholy to the track. It has a certain calmness, best expressed in the performance of the chorus. “You didn’t stand by me”.
“Train in Vain” serves as a companion piece to Blueburst’s original single, “Amplify Me,” which explores the anger and frustration that arises when one feels their voice is ignored. Both songs are deeply influenced by the events of Summer 2020, drawing from the collective unrest and social upheaval that characterized the period. One hard-hitting and raging, the other more melancholic and calm.