Multiple Versions Monday: White Rabbit
Five versions ... which one will you favor?
Morning. Notice, I did not type “good” morning, as it’s Monday and who truly enjoys returning to work after a far too short weekend of relaxation and recuperation? I mean, there may be a few outliers. But, it was a rough start to the week at Casa Hart.
You know what makes Mondays almost tolerable? Music. On Mondays I share multiple versions of a classic song. Today’s no different!
White Rabbit
This week we’re diving into five versions of another classic rock masterpiece, Jefferson Airplane’s psychedelic gem, “White Rabbit.” The original is an oft-repeat listen. I love the way Grace Slick slowly builds up her powerful vocal delivery, creating a psychadelic rock anthem.
I like every version I’m sharing this week, but that’s not new. I don’t share it if I don’t like it.
The Playlists
Listen with Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/multiple-versions-monday-white-rabbit/pl.u-JPAZ0mPtLZrxV7P
Listen with Tidal:
https://tidal.com/browse/playlist/a1bb3135-1e0c-46a3-aa4f-e4d5634b91b1
NOTE: While I started writing this before 8 AM, I had an issue converting my Spotify playlist to Apple Music, so it isn’t going out until after noon. SIGH!
I’d love it if you let me know what you think of this week’s multiple versions playlist. Which version stands out? Did any version surprise you?
Love this feature! Love it even more when I'm on vacation :)
To the countdown:
5) Collide
I liked this one. Faithful to the vibe of the original, but doesn't sound like a cheap copy. That synthy industrial-ish arrangement just isn't my preference.
4) The Damned
I also liked this one. It's a more straightforward rock arrangement which totally works. My main quibble would be that their vocals just dont quite hold up for me. When they're harmonizing on the "Feed Your head" part . . . errrrrrrr
3) Emiliana Torrini
A+ for maximizing everything about this version. It starts slower and softer, and ends bigger and bolder. It's the "goes to 11" version. In what will be a recurring theme, I just like Grace's singing better than all of the extra production on this version.
1b) Patti Smith
I dont know how she makes the song even starker and trippier but she does it. I think its the best arrangement of the bunch. But . . .
1a) Jefferson Airplane
At the end of the day I think Grace's powerhouse vocals put this one over the top.
I have been fascinated by this song since I first saw it in the film Platoon when I was 14. A local Bristol band, Oslo Twins do a great live version of this but have not recorded it. I actually like all of these versions but I don’t think you can beat the original. Emiliana Torrini comes a close second for me because it most closely emulates Jefferson Airplane.