Wisp Transforms Green Day’s Classic with Ethereal Cover on ‘Like A Version’
Rising shoegaze artist Wisp debuted on Australia’s renowned triple j segment ‘Like A Version’ with a captivating reimagining of Green Day’s 2009 ballad, “Last Night on Earth.” The performance showcases Wisp’s signature ethereal sound, offering a fresh perspective on the punk-rock trio’s emotive track.
A “Cute Song” and Creative Inspiration
Wisp explained her song choice as remarkably simple, stating, “I chose this cover, it’s a very simple reason, I just think it’s a cute song.” Billboard reports that she added, “It’s easy, it’s fun and I had it on a playlist for a long time, so I knew all the words already.”
The cover isn’t just a fan tribute; it’s also playing a role in Wisp’s creative process. She revealed that “Last Night on Earth” was part of a curated playlist used for inspiration even as writing her next album. ABC notes that Wisp frequently creates playlists for herself and her fans, and this Green Day track held a prominent place on a personal moodboard.
From Ballad to Shoegaze
Originally released on Green Day’s 21st Century Breakdown, “Last Night on Earth” is known for its stripped-back emotional resonance. Wisp’s rendition diverges from this, transforming the song into a shimmering, distortion-laden soundscape characteristic of her shoegaze style. AceShowbiz highlights the ethereal textures Wisp brought to the cover.
Wisp elaborated on the reworking process, stating she experimented with guitar tones and effects to infuse the song with her unique sound. ABC reports she focused on building a bigger chorus and incorporating “fun ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’” to create a distinctly “Wisp-y” feel.
‘Like A Version’ and Beyond
‘Like A Version’ has a long history of showcasing innovative reinterpretations of popular songs. Wisp’s cover of “Last Night on Earth” continues this tradition, offering a compelling example of how artists can breathe new life into familiar tracks. Alongside the Green Day cover, Wisp also performed her original song ‘Black Swan’ during the ‘Like A Version’ appearance.
Fans can experience Wisp’s full ‘Like A Version’ session through triple j’s official channels, including a performance video available on YouTube.