Jimi Hendrix – Drifter’s Escape
Ah, Jimi Hendrix’s rendition of “Drifter’s Escape” – a fascinating crossroads where two iconic figures in music briefly meet. Originally penned by the enigmatic folk legend Bob Dylan, the song first appeared on his 1967 album, John Wesley Harding. It was a stark departure from Dylan’s earlier, more overtly political work, embracing a stripped-down acoustic sound and cryptic lyrics that spoke of a restless spirit and a search for meaning.
Background
Hendrix, on the other hand, was a blazing comet in the rock and roll sky. By 1970, the year he is believed to have recorded his version of “Drifter’s Escape”, he had already established himself as a guitar god, a pioneer in using effects pedals to create otherworldly soundscapes, and a master of psychedelic rock.
So, what happens when the introspective folk of Dylan collides with the electrifying rock of Hendrix? The answer, unfortunately, is a bit murky. Unlike many of Hendrix’s studio recordings, there’s no definitive version of his “Drifter’s Escape”. Several bootleg recordings exist, some featuring a loose jam session with his band, the Experience, while others showcase Hendrix tinkering with the song solo. The exact date and context of these recordings remain unclear [Sources: Elsewhere by Graham Reid, MusicBrainz].
Despite the lack of a polished studio take, the surviving recordings of Hendrix’s “Drifter’s Escape” offer a tantalizing glimpse into what could have been. In some versions, we hear Hendrix wrestling with Dylan’s melody, stretching it and bending it to fit his own bluesy phrasing. His voice, raw and soulful, injects a yearning quality that complements Dylan’s cryptic lyrics. The band, when present, lays down a loose, funky groove that hints at the possibilities of a fully realized Hendrix interpretation.
Then there’s the guitar. Even in these rough recordings, Hendrix’s mastery shines through. He teases out feedback wails that echo the song’s sense of restlessness, and throws in unexpected flourishes that hint at the sonic tapestries he was known for weaving. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Hendrix’s creative process, a chance to hear him explore a new territory, one that bridges the gap between folk and rock.
While the world never got a definitive Hendrix version of “Drifter’s Escape”, these fragments remain a captivating listen for music enthusiasts. They offer a chance to witness a meeting of two musical titans, a moment where Dylan’s introspective lyricism collides with Hendrix’s sonic alchemy. Though short-lived, this encounter serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music, and its ability to bridge seemingly disparate styles and create something entirely new.