Originally produced by Tommy Ramone and recorded by The Replacements for their fourth studio album, Tim (1985), Swingin’ Party marked a shift from their raucous, punk-inflected bar rock to a more melancholic sound, making it ideal cover territory for Dean Johnson. Johnson’s quavering tenor suits those melancholic vibes, delivered through his brighter cosmic lens and aided by a well-matched, wistful pedal steel.
On the single, Johnson Shares: “I just had to learn to play this song because I love it so much and have always felt strongly connected to the beautiful lyrics. I’ve done it in my own simple (at least one wrong chord) way, but I think The Replacements’ recording is one of their most magical. Their eclectic range has always been inspiring.
The single is out now on Saddle Creek, the same label that released I Hope We Can Still Be Friends last year.
He’s touring with Cat Clyde now; see dates below.
LIVE DATES
11/12/2026 – Fort Collins, CO @ Aggie Theatre*
11/13/2026 – Colorado Springs, CO @ The Black Sheep*
11/14/2026 – Denver, CO @ Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox*
11/17/2026 – Fayetteville, AR @ George’s Majestic Lounge*
11/19/2026 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Resonant Head*
11/20/2026 – Dallas, TX @ Sons of Hermann Hall*
11/21/2026 – Austin, TX @ Sagebrush*
11/22/2026 – Houston, TX @ The Heights Theater*
11/24/2026 – Santa Fe, NM @ The Bridge Indoors*
11/27/2026 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The State Room*
11/28/2026 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The State Room*
11/29/2026 – Boise, ID @ Treefort Music Hall*
12/1/2026 – Bend, OR @ Volcanic Theatre Pub*
12/2/2026 – Eugene, OR @ Hult Center for Performing Arts (Soreng Theater)*
12/4/2026 – Portland, OR @ Aladdin Theater* (SOLD OUT)
12/9/2026 – Bellingham, WA @ Wild Buffalo* (SOLD OUT)
12/10/2026 – Seattle, WA @ Neptune Theatre*
*= w/ Cat Clyde