Before finding fame as one of the greatest actors of his generation, Johnny Depp played guitar, and at times he’s returned to it. With his acting career forced on hold, he’s been strumming again, touring with the equally legendary Jeff Beck. In fact the pair have a joint album coming out, of Beck and Depp doing covers… except one song.

The covers album came about when Beck agreed to work with Depp on a song the latter had written in 2019, and it’s the song we’re reviewing here: This Is A Song For Miss Hedy Lamarr. It’s a multi layered rock song with vocals by Depp, and it’s actually very good.

On the surface it’s all about Hedy Lamarr, an actress who experienced cancellation in the 30s after a scandal not of her making, but who survived and remerged with a new name. Obviously there are parallels to Depp who lost his film career after attacks from his ex-wife, and it’s good to hear him get catharsis. However, we think the chorus chant of “I don’t in humans anymore” would fit anyone aware of politics going on in the English speaking countries of the world.

In fact, it’s good enough to make you wish Beck had teased more originals from Depp for the album.

8/10