Last year, a young woman from Maine broke into the music world’s consciousness in a big way. As a part of her Columbia University music program course, she played her song for iconic songwriter and producer Pharrell. The song she played, “Alaska,” brought the man to tears – the video went viral, she got signed to a major label for the release of her debut EP Now That The Light Is Fading, and she just about instantly sold out her first ever tour. Today, British indie rockers The Kooks have released their own version of that song, playing it live on Jo Whiley’s BBC Radio 2 program.

“Alaska” made mxdwn’s Best Songs of 2016 list, coming in at number 12.

The Kooks, who are currently on their 10th Anniversary tour, last released an album in 2015. That album, Hello, What’s Your Name, featured remixed versions of songs heard on their fourth proper LP, Listen.

Photo Credit: Brett Padelford