One doesn’t have to be an astrologer to surmise we’ve been living in the year of The Ox, because 2024 saw not only the reissues of John Entwistle solo works but also the arrival of the second installment of the late legend’s rarities series. And this year’s not over yet: before it ends, one more album related to THE WHO bassist will see the light of day. Titled “Sing Wistle Tunes” and comprising 17 covers of John’s classics, the forthcoming release has been masterminded by Roger Houdaille, the leader of American indie heroes EX NORWEGIAN, who recorded their favorites Entwistle tracks in the company of their friends.
“I have a penchant for tributes that others might not conceive, much less execute,” says Roger. “In 2021, my band EX NORWEGIAN released a full album tribute to Liverpool singer-songwriter Jimmy Campbell, once described by ‘The Times’ as ‘the era’s lost songwriter’ of the Seventies. Continuing that theme of honoring underappreciated writers, John Entwistle stands out for me. My favorite songs by THE WHO are largely his, filled with humor delivered in a deadpan style that resonates with me.
“As I was wrapping up this tribute, news surfaced about reissues of nearly all his solo work – a serendipitous moment. Initially, I aimed for a collaborative project with various guests, much like ‘Ex Norwegian and Friends Sing Jimmy Campbell.’ However, coordinating such an effort proved challenging, and I found myself as the main driving force. Despite this, we have notable contributions: John Howard reimagined ‘What Are We Doing Here?’, Keith Smart of ST JOHNS WOOD AFFAIR took on ‘Doctor, Doctor,’ and Mark Johnston lent his voice to ‘Whiskey Man.’ Instrumentally, Fernando Perdomo and Nick Frater added their talents, along with ‘Fiddle About’ and ‘Boris The Spider’ submitted, respectively, by God Bless The Evil Child and SUPER 8.
“This album is a fun, low-key endeavor – perhaps, in the spirit of John’s own ‘Rigor Mortis Sets In’ and ‘Mad Dog.’ It gave me an excuse to experiment with new technologies and software. I’ve decided to release it as a bit of a surprise; if people stumble upon it and enjoy it, that’s wonderful. If not, that’s okay too. There’s not going to be a big push of it as I feel it’s too much of a mixed bag. Ultimately, I hope it encourages others to explore Entwistle’s newly reissued records and appreciate his legacy. Long live the Ox!”
As for the tracks on what will be out on October 9th, they run like this:
Sing Wistle Tunes
1. My Size – EX NORWEGIAN
2. 905 – EX NORWEGIAN
3. Apron Strings – EX NORWEGIAN
4. It’s Your Turn – EX NORWEGIAN
5. Cousin Kevin – EX NORWEGIAN
6. Fiddle About – GOD BLESS THE EVIL CHILD
7. Peg Leg Peggy – EX NORWEGIAN
8. Whiskey Man – EX NORWEGIAN
9. My Wife – EX NORWEGIAN
10. What Are We Doing Here? – EX NORWEGIAN
11. When I Was A Boy – EX NORWEGIAN
12. The Window Shopper – EX NORWEGIAN
13. Boris The Spider – SUPER 8
14. Talk Dirty – EX NORWEGIAN
15. Doctor, Doctor – EX NORWEGIAN with Keith Smart
16. I Wonder – EX NORWEGIAN
17. I Believe In Everything – EX NORWEGIAN
