When mainstream artists choose to re-make older songs, the tracks that are re-done are often radio hits that exist in several forms already. With Mandy Moore's 2003 album, "Coverage", this practice took on a slightly different feel. While all the tracks on the record are covers (hence the title), they are relatively unknown to today's fans.

It's unusual for someone choosing to cover 70s and 80s songs to pick hits by artists like Todd Rundgren, Carly Simon, or Cat Stevens. This, however, is exactly what Moore has done. There are no Eagles or Fleetwood Mac to be found; not that those artists are bad, per se, but that their music is so often re-done that modern listeners are already familiar with it.

Not only are the songs different choices for a teen singer to cover, but the tracks are well-done. The original versions shine through, and while Mandy has put her hallmark vocals on the hits, they aren't changed around beyond recognition. For perhaps the first time since the 1960s, when re-making songs was common practice, tunes are displayed with respect to the original artist.

Normally, I stray away from covers. But this CD is simply full of good music. Listening to these tunes, I have a new appreciation for the lesser-known tracks by Elton John and Cat Stevens. And isn't that the whole idea behind listening to music?