Article Contributed by Gratefulweb
Published on September 21, 2025
Maryland’s Old Head have carved out their own niche in the ever-growing world of Grateful Dead tributes. While many groups cover the entire songbook, Old Head digs deep into the psychedelic years of 1965 through 1970 — a period defined by primal jams, Pigpen’s raw blues energy, and the band’s transformation from acid-test warriors to pioneers of improvisational rock.
Led by guitarist Jeremy Reichwein, Old Head approaches this formative era with reverence and authenticity. Their performances transport listeners back to the Fillmore and Avalon days, when songs like “Viola Lee Blues,” “Dark Star,” and “The Eleven” stretched into uncharted territory. Period-correct tones, faithful arrangements, and a commitment to the spirit of experimentation set them apart from more generalized tribute acts.
The band’s lineup reflects that mission with a strong, versatile cast of players: Terry Collins (drums), Mike Kirby (drums), Andy Harden (bass), Jeremy Reichwein (guitar), Todd Pafford (guitar), Eric Buchner (keys), and Larry Byrne (keys). Together, they create the full palette of the Dead’s early sound — twin drummers driving the improvisation, deep bass grounding the jams, and a swirl of guitar and organ tones evoking the late-’60s San Francisco ballrooms.
Based in the Maryland/Baltimore/DC corridor, Old Head’s appeal resonates far beyond local venues. Fans chasing the early Dead’s wild energy — the swirl of psychedelic improvisation mixed with Pigpen’s gritty vocal power — will find Old Head delivering the goods. Though primarily rooted in the mid-to-late ’60s catalog, the band occasionally steps outside those boundaries for a surprise tune from later years, always keeping audiences on their toes.
With a growing presence across Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, Old Head has been steadily building a loyal following. Their videos showcase the band’s dedication to the sound and feel of vintage Dead, offering a taste of what fans can expect in person. For Deadheads who want to experience the formative years in all their exploratory glory, Old Head is a name worth remembering.
Hop on board the trip — the bus is heading back to 1969, and Old Head is at the wheel.
Find more about Old Head:
Website: www.OldHeadMusic65.com
Facebook: facebook.com/oldheadmusic65
Instagram: instagram.com/oldheadmusic65
YouTube: youtube.com/@oldheadmusic65
