Pittsburgh native Kevin Garrett recently released a cover version of “Pure Imagination”, a song you may know from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.
When I think of the 1971 classic film (the only version that matters, in my opinion), my mind goes to memorable scenes like Charlie Bucket’s mother tending to her laundry stew, or shady Grandpa Joe transforming from a bedridden old fogey to Fred Astaire the moment Charlie finds the golden ticket. Most of all, I remember the excitement of finally getting to see inside the mysterious chocolate factory at the heart of the movie. The song “Pure Imagination” is the audience’s introduction into Wonka’s magical candy forest, a place as warm and inviting as it is sinister and foreboding. A reminder that paradise is yours for the taking, but not without a price.
Garrett’s gorgeous cover of this song strips the track down to its bare bones, telling the story through the spaces between the lines and a lo-fi aesthetic. Los Angeles-based producer Xela’s pared-down production and Garrett’s understated vocals open it up for listeners to use their own imaginations to find an escape. With the current state of everything, we could all use an escape – even if only in our heads.
If you’re in need of some entertainment during these strange times, find Garrett on Twitch over at @kevinogarrett for streams combining game play, chatting, comedy, and musical medleys that will leave you wondering how one person could be this talented. Learn more about Garrett’s music at https://kevingarrettmusic.com.
