John Oates joined a giant saxophonist Sasquatch – called Saxsquatch, of course – for a new EDM twist on Hall & Oates’ classic “Maneater”.
“I have had many supernatural experiences in my career, but none as mystical and magical as this collaboration with the incredible and exciting Saxsquatch,” said Oates of the unlikely collaboration in a statement (via Ultimate Classic Rock). “He brings funk from the forest and puts a smile on the face of the world. Meeting him in the forest to record the video was a life-changing moment. As soon as we started recording, I knew we had something special. The hallmark of a good song is that it can be reinvented in many ways, and this is, without a doubt, the coolest version I’ve ever heard. “
While Daryl Hall deals with vocals on the original 1982 single, Oates stands in front of the microphone for a radically overhauled version that focuses on Saxsquatch’s sax work.
Saxsquatch added in a statement: “I like music that makes people stomp their feet. It was a difficult year for everyone. We could all use songs and stories that would help us dance and feel less alone. I know a lot about how to feel alone. “
The pair further detailed their strange journey together – Oates stumbled upon Saxsquatch in the forest of Chapel Hill, North Carolina – in a new interview with Forbes, with Saxsquatch calling the sax solo the original “Maneater” (performed by “Mr. Casual” Charlie DeChant) “one of the most iconic solos of all time.”
Saxsquatch and Oates will meet on Saturday as part of the live broadcast of the Oates Song Fest 7908, scheduled for March 20 in nugs.net. In addition to the sax-playing monster, the virtual show benefiting Feeding America will also feature Daryl Hall, Dave Grohl, Bob Weir, Jim James, Sheila E., Jewel and more.