They just don’t make music like “Should’ve Never Let You Go” anymore. This duet from John “Swanee” Swan and Melinda Schneider has all the magic of a track from Tony Bennett or Frank Sinatra, but it’s actually a cover of a song Neil Sedaka released in 1980 with his daughter Dara. There’s a beautiful stillness about what they do here. The artists respect the melody and give the lyrics time to breathe. It doesn’t sound like anything people are releasing today, and that’s a big part of what makes it so special.
“Should’ve Never Let You Go” is one of the impressive collaborations featured on Swanee’s new album Believe. Fifteen of its 16 songs are collaborations with friends and family members including Jimmy Barnes, Alan and Mahalia Barnes, Diesel, Joe Camilleri, Dave Gleeson, Jack Jones, Colin Hay, Ian Moss, and so many more. Fourteen of its tracks are covers, and it’s fascinating hearing what they bring to such fantastic material.
“Believe is the supreme pizza of Australian rock and soul as it features my friends and family from my 50-year working career,” Swanee said. “This album is about resilience, redemption, and refusing to give up – in music, and in life. I called it Believe because that’s what it takes. Belief in yourself, in second chances, and in the power of a great song.”
While “Should’ve Never Let You Go” is on streaming services, you won’t find the Believe album there. Swanee’s gone old school. You can purchase your choice of CD or double vinyl directly from his website.
Image used with permission from Checked Label Services
