I was reminded of this song while learning the traditional song Pretty Saro the other night, and it just goes to show that whether you’re a feedback-laden guitar group from Scotland or a singer in the Appalachian mountains, you still share the same concerns.

“Something I Can’t Have” is possibly my favourite Jesus And Mary Chain song. The original is a glorious storm of pop-noise, confrontational and touching in the way that only Jim and William Reid ever really manage to be. You just know that behind the arrogant, disinterested posturing, there have always been a couple of sentimental old fools who love a good tune.

I’ve recorded it very simply indeed - just acoustic guitar and acoustic bass. I might start playing it live - something I’ve never got round to doing, despite having learnt it (ahem) about 15 years ago when the Sound Of Speed E.P. first came out!

Download Something I Can’t Have (3.3 MB)