Fabulous Muppets: The Green Album Raises the Question: What are the Best Muppet Covers?

The wonderful trailers for Jason Segel's Muppets movie already have me torqued for a reboot of Kermit the Frog's kingdom, but now consider me extra-amped: This new disc of Muppet cover songs featuring Weezer, OK Go, the Fray, and Rachael Yamagata is so solid and original that I can't believe an alternative version like it has never been attempted before. You can listen to the whole Green Album online now, but first, think: What are your favorite Muppet covers? And do these live up?

Rivers Cuomo is truly a lovely vocalist, and his version of "Rainbow Connection" here is stellar and heartfelt. The others will floor you too, including Sondre Lerche with his cute version of "Mr. Bassman."

[Listen via NPR.org]

As for the greatest Muppet covers ever, these three can't be denied. We begin with Ray Charles's definitive version of "Bein' Green," which proves just how gritty and poignant the world of green felt can be. Then we have the Carpenters' take on "Rainbow Connection," which is dreamier and airier than an angelfood cake on a cloud. It also helps that Karen Carpenter is my choice for the single best vocalist of the 20th century. Then, to end on a somber but gorgeous note, we turn to the medley of Jim Henson's favorite songs sung at his amazing memorial service. The heart-stopping versions of "Halfway Down the Stairs," "I'm Going to Go Back There Someday," and "Just One Person" will resonate with Henson fans forever.

Any we forgot?

[via NPR]