Dallas, TX – Masters of the modern era of glam-rock, The Dirty Shirts, has unleashed an impassioned rendition of Chris Isaak’s timeless classic, “Wicked Game.” Their version of this iconic song is a testament to the band’s musical prowess, delivering an interpretation that’s both emotionally raw and undeniably provocative. “Wicked Game” is now available for streaming and download.
“Wicked Game” is a song that’s incredibly direct with its message and taps into the exposed depths of human emotion. The Dirty Shirts’ cover captures the essence of vulnerability, a feeling that resonates with all of us. Nick Santa Maria’s soulful, sultry falsetto vocals evoke a profound sense of sentimentality and otherworldly melancholy, particularly during the haunting bridge where he sings, “I never dreamed that I’d meet somebody like you, and I never dreamed that I’d lose somebody like you.” The Dirty Shirts channel Isaak’s signature charisma into the cover, bringing it to life at Modern Electric Sound Recorders in Dallas, TX, with producer Jeff Saenz (Leon Bridges, Reverend Horton Heat, Old 97’s), engineering by Joel Raif, mastering by Jordan Richardson, and Will Van Horn on pedal steel.
The band’s rendition of “Wicked Game” takes this well-known classic and infuses it with their signature rock-leaning style, delivering a powerful and transformative musical experience. The combination of brooding, melancholic undertones, and impossibly romantic vocals, paired with languorous guitar work, elevates this rendition to a new level of artistry. “I’ve thought about covering this song for years,” says lead singer Nick Santa Maria. “I knew I wanted to honor the essence of the original recording and composition while still adding a unique characteristic that was undoubtedly The Dirty Shirts. We recorded this almost entirely live in the studio, aside from some overdubs and the pedal steel. I think you feel that energy in the final product. Me, Jeff, and Joel all have individual but strong connections to this song, and that love and reverence definitely comes through.” The Dirty Shirts’ interpretation of this well-loved classic further cements its status as a musical masterpiece and an essential addition to the band’s catalog. “It’s not a traditionally “dancey” song, and while it absolutely builds into something massive, the mood for the first half is very tense, ethereal, and subdued. But that’s exciting to me because if we can do this, we can do anything” explains Santa Maria.
The Dirty Shirts first emerged onto the alternative music landscape in 2021, quickly making waves as a dance-provoking, glam-rock band. With a history deeply rooted in the music industry, Nick Santa Maria initially toured as a sideman for various country artists. However, the turbulent events of the 2020 pandemic provided Santa Maria with an opportunity to reinvent his career, resulting in the formation of The Dirty Shirts. Drawing inspiration from musical legends like David Bowie, Gorillaz, and the Warped Tour-era alternative scene, the band released their debut album, The Get Up From The Get Go, followed by numerous singles. The Dirty Shirts’ evolved glamorous grunge aesthetic seamlessly complements their captivating performances and the ability to deeply connect with their audience. Their music has been touted by press outlets such as Wonderland, Loudwire, New Noise Magazine, and Music Connection and can often be heard on Dallas’ KXT, Idobi Radio, and Steven Van Zandt’s Underground Garage on Sirius XM.
As we usher in 2024, The Dirty Shirts continues to push the boundaries of their craft, and their emotionally charged and sensually immersive cover of “Wicked Game” is proof of that. “Wicked Game” is now available to stream and download on all major music platforms. Brace yourself for a poignant and moving listening experience that only The Dirty Shirts can deliver. Visit them online at TheDirtyShirtsUS.com, and be sure to follow their Instagram @TheDirtyShirtsUS.
