London-based producer duo Rare Element have boldly reimagined Fields of Joy, originally written by The New York Rock Ensemble and later popularized by Lenny Kravitz. In collaboration with ethereal vocalist Britt Foe (Lunar & The Deception), this new rendition offers a striking departure from the traditionally male-led versions of the song. With its blend of electronic textures, cinematic orchestration, and raw rock energy, Rare Element takes this classic into an entirely new dimension—one of beauty, urgency, and emotional depth.
First released in 1971 by The New York Rock Ensemble—whose members included legendary composers Michael Kamen (Robin Hood, Die Hard) and Mark Snow (Twin Peaks, Starsky & Hutch)—Fields of Joy has remained a hidden gem in rock history. Most notably, Lenny Kravitz brought it into the mainstream when he covered it as the opening track on his 1991 album Mama Said.
What makes Rare Element’s take so compelling is their decision to shift the song’s perspective. Until now, Fields of Joyhas always been delivered through a masculine vocal lens. By placing Britt Foe at the center, the track gains an entirely new emotional resonance—one that leans into fragility, hope, and strength in the face of adversity. The result is a deeply moving experience that feels fresh while still honoring the original’s spirit.
Rare Element—Hedge Seel (drums) and Jerry Kandiah (guitar, programming, synths)—are known for their high-energy fusion of IDM, metal, modern classical, and progressive psychedelia. Their signature sound is fully realized here, as they build a rich, cinematic backdrop for Britt’s stunning vocals.
The track begins delicately, with Britt’s voice floating over a dreamy, atmospheric soundscape. As the song progresses, layers of orchestral strings (performed by Barbara Bartz), swirling synths, and electronic percussion gradually build, creating an epic sense of movement. The production is intricate but never overpowering, allowing the vocals to remain the emotional core of the track.
A standout moment arrives with the searing guitar solo from Gus Robertson (formerly of Razorlight). His playing injects a surge of raw energy, serving as a counterpoint to the song’s ethereal qualities and anchoring it in the rock tradition from which it was born.
Britt Foe’s vocal performance is nothing short of mesmerizing. As the frontwoman of Lunar & The Deception, she is known for her otherworldly voice and theatrical presence, and both are on full display here. She delivers the lyrics with a mix of delicacy and conviction, weaving a tale of love and unity against an apocalyptic backdrop. Her voice soars in the chorus, carrying the listener into an almost transcendental state.
By choosing to feature a female vocalist, Rare Element breathes new life into the song, transforming it from a rock anthem into a haunting, almost cinematic experience.
Lyrically, Fields of Joy has always been about finding beauty and peace in the chaos of the world. However, with Rare Element’s production and Britt’s delivery, the song takes on a deeper, almost prophetic tone. The mention of “apocalyptic turmoil” in their press release is not just poetic phrasing—it genuinely feels like this version of Fields of Joy is a love song set in the last moments of civilization.
There’s an urgency here that makes the song feel incredibly relevant. Whether intentional or not, it speaks to the uncertainty of our times—climate crises, war, social upheaval—and offers a glimpse of hope within the storm.
Rare Element’s Fields of Joy is more than just a cover—it’s a re-imagination of a classic, infused with modern sensibilities and a sense of epic storytelling. It honors the song’s history while pushing it into unexplored sonic territory.
With its ethereal vocals, masterful production, and gripping emotional depth, this version has the potential to introduce Fields of Joy to a whole new audience. Whether you’re a fan of the original, Lenny Kravitz’s rendition, or simply appreciate innovative music, this track is a must-listen.
As Rare Element continues to blend electronic experimentation with rock’s raw energy, they prove that classic songs can find new life in the hands of visionary artists. And with Britt Foe’s transcendent vocals leading the charge, Fields of Joybecomes not just a song, but an experience—one that lingers long after the final note fades.
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