Warren Haynes reveals first sneak peek at symphonic album

Warren Haynes has released a live version of “Banks of the Deep End,” the first preview of his upcoming symphonic album Dreams & Songs, which will be available in the U.S. through Evil Teen Records.

Originally appearing on The Deep End, Volume 1 in 2001, “Banks of the Deep End” has become a staple for Gov’t Mule fans. The new orchestral arrangement was recorded in 2019 at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Haynes’ hometown of Asheville. The performance marked the debut of his Dreams & Songs symphonic show alongside the Asheville Symphony Orchestra and a backing lineup featuring Oteil Burbridge on bass, John Medeski on organ and keys, Jeff Sipe on drums, and Greg Osby on saxophone.

“‘Banks of the Deep End’ is one of the songs that we probably play more than any other,” said Warren Haynes. “Although it doesn’t vary as much on a nightly basis as some of the other tunes, it somehow takes on its own personality just based on the song itself and the lyric and uniqueness of the chord structure and the melody. Playing it with a symphony emphasizes all the dramatic and dynamic changes that song presents, and it’s wonderful hearing it in that light.”

On April 30, the Warren Haynes Band will perform its Dreams & Songs Symphonic Experience with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra at The Orpheum Theater. The show explores music from Haynes’ catalog, including material from Gov’t Mule, The Allman Brothers Band, Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia, and his solo work.

The following night, Gov’t Mule will headline the venue for the final date of its spring headlining tour. After a short break, the band will return to the road in July and August for a summer run featuring headlining shows, co-headlining dates with Joe Bonamassa, and festival appearances.

More details on Dreams & Songs are expected soon.