I'm in two different camps about this one.

I really liked the first version. But I really like the fact that this one is sadder and darker. So the real question is what is your aim for this song?

I also think that both songs could use a little more mixing, such as in the second song the banjo gets in the way of the vocal IMHO. A few minor fixes like that would take both version over the top.

PS - either way this is one great song.

Whenever I get something stuck in the back of my throat, I dislodge it by drinking a beer.
It's called the Heineken Maneuver.

64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware