headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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Ernie5

No cholesterol.

+3668


Submissions

2
Candyman
July 12, 1976
Orpheum Theater

Spare, almost vulnerable take on this classic. Godchaux brings the church and Garcia brings the stained glass. An American beauty.
5
Estimated Prophet
Jan. 30, 1978
Uptown Theater

You can hear the swagger in their mutterings before they play. And the performance bears that out. Sure, smooth, and effortless.
1
It Must Have Been The Roses
Aug. 4, 1974
Philadelphia Civic Center

Letter perfect - the Godchauxs take this to a loftier level. Beautiful dynamic push-and-pull by the whole group.
3
Tennessee Jed
May 25, 1972
Strand Lyceum

Planting the Flag of Civilization on this tight scorcher. New from factory - Inspector #9. Under penalty of law, this tag may not be YEAH GARCIA!
5
Candyman
Jan. 31, 1978
Uptown Theater

Dreamy, motionless rendition on a sea of individual human reactions [audience tape]. A wonderful time for this gem.
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Comments

Playin' In The Band
April 8, 1972
Wembley Empire Pool

Prime Playin'! The band simply doesn't get a whole lot more dynamic than this. The absolute insanity of Garcia's playing is muted only slightly by the underpants drawer brilliance of each (and every) player. Il pacchetto completo. 11 minutes and no fat. First half of '72 for this song: smooooooch!
Playin' In The Band
Dec. 31, 1976
Cow Palace

The sound of Lesh's bass would go way downhill in a few short years - here: just enjoy the bracing attack and depth. That's my advice anyway. This a version and recording in which to bask.
Playin' In The Band
Sept. 11, 1973
William and Mary College Hall

Like Carrion says, unassuming, slowburn but after not too long, spark dancing on a wire. As is often the case at this time, Kreutzmann & Garcia lead the charge.
Big River
Nov. 15, 1972
Oklahoma City Music Hall

1972 is home to so many best-ofs. This or '73 would be the answer to whither Big River? Spotlight on Weir's guitar - killer. Of course.
Brokedown Palace
Nov. 17, 1972
Century II Convention Hall

One of the great shows. Although it gets a little rickety at the end, Garcia's light wah/phasey guitar break is unique and mind-numbingly lovely. I might have to take a breath, too, if I played something like that.
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