There is something about a good cover song that makes you appreciate the original in a new way. It also allows you to listen to the covering bands in new way. Often, these cover bands are breaking of out their normal genre and just rocking out on the cover.
I imagine it is similar to acting; completely getting into a new character and making it your own…

Locally, the Love Monkeys are particularly entertaining on stage with their covers…
Check them out here: http://www.lovemonkeys.com/the-band.html
See them live if you can!

On a “national” stage, I very much enjoy listening to Coverville, the podcast. I’ve discovered ‘new to me’ artists busting out their vocal chops on known songs from folks like Led Zeppelin, Metallica, and Brittany Spears. Most of the covers make you listen to the original in new ways, and while some just really suck hard, it is worth the listen. Check them out here at the Coverville podcast…