Quinn the Eskimo (Bob Dylan)
Copyright 1996, Dwarf Music
Arranged by Robert Heirendt
Robert Heirendt – Vocals, Mbira, Bass, Keyboards, Programming
Michael Roe – Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar
Recorded by Robert Heirendt at Old Home Place Studios, Grass Valley, Ca.
Mixed by Mikail Graham & Robert Heirendt at The Other Studio, Nevada City, Ca.
Quinn the Eskimo was written by Bob Dylan in 1967 and first recorded by Dylan and the Band during the “Basement Tapes” recordings. The first official release of this song, however was a 1969 recording by Manfred Mann, and their version is seen by many as the definitive version of this song. Manfred Mann’s “Mighty Quinn” single reached the number one slot on the UK Singles Chart. The version of Quinn the Eskimo which was released on Self Portrait was a live recording of Bob Dylan with the Band at the Isle of Wright Festival on 8/31/69.
“When I do covers, I generally want to do something different with the song. When you compare Dylan’s version with Manfred Mann’s version, you can really appreciate how they made this song their own. When listening to “Quinn”, I envisioned a ramped up “mbira centric” groove with slightly altered chord changes. The surrealistic humor of the lyrics was also appealing to me. I really loved what Michael brought to the guitar parts and what Mikail brought to the sonics. This was a fun collaboration!” – Robert Heirendt
Robert Heirendt’s artistic vision is about interweaving. From the weaving together of complex patterns, juxtaposed rhythms, multiple diverse influences, experiences, and feelings, he strives to create sounds and textures which take the listener to new places. He plays the mbira dzavadzimu, a type of kalimba instrument from Zimbabwe, and has studied traditional Zimbabwean trance music for over a decade. Robert works as a music therapist/social worker, using music to help children and families connect with their higher selves. He also plays in the instrumental ensemble “Tumble” and in a bluegrass band “Boston Ravine” with his daughter Mei Lin.
Website: http://robertheirendt.com
