I may be in the minority on this one (particularly if you’re a fan of Almost Famous), but I’ve never much cared for Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer.” Among his impressive decades-long discography of familiar tunes, the song is near the bottom of any ranking I’d make, though definitely a rung or three above “Nikita.”

But thanks to a tip from Popjustice, there’s a new cover of “Tiny Dancer” that’s making me reconsider my negative position. British singer/songwriter Mary at Midnight (aka Kiran Hungin) has turned out a lovely take on Elton John’s 1971 original, even if at one point in the recording process she seemed to doubt what she’d chosen to tackle, tweeting, “Wavering between loving and being very confused by what I’m doing.”

Shortly before posting the finished work to the world as a free download, she explained her approach to the cover: “I have messed with it a fair bit and am hoping that people will embrace the fact that I have done it in my own style, rather than ripping me apart for doctoring a great track. Let’s hope people keep their minds open.”

Whether or not “Tiny Dancer” devotees embrace Mary at Midnight’s version, I’m won over. I  love the samples she’s threaded throughout, from industrial-lite flutters to the all-male chorus occasionally swooping in and out behind her. Shades of Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” comes to mind midway through the six-and-a-half-minute track, a memory that offers a good indication of the intimate gorgeousness that awaits you below:

Kudos to Mary at Midnight, as I now detest “Tiny Dancer” so much less. Though I dare anyone try doing the same with “Nikita” and succeed. I think that song’s beyond redemption.

Free download of Mary at Midnight – “Tiny Dancer” (Elton John cover) via the player above.