I’m having quite a Scottish day, wouldn’t you say? I think it important to mention that The Delgados are central figures of the Scottish pop movement of the past ten years, having started the label Chemikal Underground and launching the careers of both Arab Strap and the now-defunct Bis. They have been terrifically critically overlooked, thanks to the looming shadow of fellow Scots Belle and Sebastian and Mogwai. However, their contribution to indie pop reverberates throughout the region and, over the years, they have begun to receive the appreciation they have rightly earned. Now occasionally, I can’t get my hands on something I hear and so desperately want. Among these cherished discoveries was The Delgados delightful cover of ELO’s “Mr. Blue Sky”, recorded during a session with the late John Peel for BBC’s Radio One. It glimmers so brightly that in many ways, it completely outshines the original version. It brightens up any room in my home instantly, and it has the power to vanquish gloomy days with a single listen. I want to apologize in advance for the quality of the MP3 file, if anyone wants to try and drum out some of the hiss, please feel free to send it on. It is available exclusively on their 3-song EP, All You Need Is Hate, the single from the band’s 2003 release Hate. It is a favorite among fans in Europe, it was a favorite of John Peel’s and is, indeed, a favorite of mine as well.

UPDATE: Big thanks to Easy Rider West for providing a MUCH better version!

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