Tune du Jour: “Bertha” – Grateful Dead
THE CLASH of Cover Tunes: Incidental Animals vs. Los Lobos vs. The Persuasions
VOTE, COMMENT, then ROAM (IF YOU WANT TO)
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The Original
Bertha:
THE CLASH of Cover Tunes
Incidental Animals vs. Los Lobos vs. The Persuasions
Incidental Animals:
In the true spirit of the Dead, Incidental Animals’ version of Bertha drifts a bit on the long side. But it’s extremely well done. And if nothing else make sure to stick around long enough for the terrific trumpet solo.
Los Lobos:
The Persuasions:
SPACE
Oh the disharmony! Much like Harlan County there are no neutrals here. It is your solemn responsibility to decide which cover song prevails. In other words … Which Side Are You On?!!?
Disclaimer: Votes cast from Florida may or may not be counted.
I wasn’t crazy about the Persuasions’ version, but boy oh boy, what a tough call between Incidental Animals and Los Lobos. This is a real good-time song, and they certainly were having a good time at that Incidental Animals show. Would have loved to have been in that audience. Such a nice, intimate setting. But I ended up giving this to Los Lobos. I’ve always liked their sound, and love the lead singer’s voice, and they really did a superb job with this song. I’ll be replaying this all day.
Easy call today. Los Lobos in a landslide.
Wow, always in the minority I suppose. No question Los Lobos does a fantastic, highly skilled job. And in regards to the Incidental Animals I had the same exact feeling as Arnie … I would have loved to been at that show. A very nice cover and an obvious good time. But I thought The Persuasions’ version was excellent as well. So I guess the deciding factor for me fell on creativity, which is where The Persuasions ran away with it. Los Lobos and the Incidental Animals produced beautiful recreations of the original. Jerry would be proud! But doing a 70’s hippie-guitar-song acapella cannot be very easy and The Persuasions were more than up to the task. They got my vote.
Thought Incidental Animals and Los Lobos both did respectable covers, but ultimately the Pesuasions jazzy gospelized version, well persuaded me, to vote for them!