There have been some great versions of the Steve Winwood/Eric Clapton penned ‘Can’t Find My Way Home’ over the years, not least of all Clapton’s own live version from 1975 with Yvonne Elliman and Joe Cocker’s 1991 recording, well suited to his aching vocal style.

This new recording from US band My Mom Is Here might just be one of the best versions set down to date. Although very little has been done to change the vocal melody, the music is presented in a much grander way than most have managed previously. The listeners hopes are immediately set high when the intro shares a swirling orchestral melody, and from there, the track goes from strength to strength.

One of its biggest strengths is the decision to shift the rhythm from a folky/hippie rock sound to something that leans much more closely to an R&B workout, topped with jazz elements. The bigger sense of groove offsets the vocal brilliantly, and although Samantha Seiff clings to Winwood’s meter fairly closely, by introducing a more soulful feel, this recording really sells that melody in a way that feels fresh again, and with Samantha’s tones occasionally sounding a little like Holly Palmer, there’s an occasional fragility within her performance that really works.

Perhaps the recording’s biggest curveball comes from its much-publicised guest star. A huge guitar solo is supplied by the legendary Jake E. Lee, best known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne, and more recently a member of Enuff Z’Nuff. It’s definitely an odd choice, since Lee’s metallic tones are genuinely out of step with the lush strings and brass that dominate the track. It never spoils the overall effect, however; in some ways, it really highlights what a bold recording this is.

For lovers of the track in all of its previous forms, this is a genuine treat. Take a listen below.