I listened to the Van Morrison version earlier and I really like the sax on it, but overall it seems a bit too smooth for the song.

I agree with you about the Paolo Nutini version; it's starts off in fairly commonplace style but really does take off with the siren.

Wasn't bothered about Frank Black or the Tom Waits versions.


It must say something about the song that it's attracted people from quite diverse styles to cover it. (And the original Oh Boy! link comes up with video unavailable now, but here's a new link Mike Preston - Dirty Old Town (complete with heavenly choir!)).


Mick