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find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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MrMystery

Dead on arrival

+2574


Submissions

7
Ramble On Rose
July 14, 1990
Foxboro Stadium

This version rewards multiple listens. Like it was good the first time, great the second. I hesitate to listen to it again. Bobby leads the way.
2
The Other One
June 15, 1990
Shoreline Amphitheatre

Jerry plays one brilliant idea after another as Phil provides counterpoint.
4
Dear Mr. Fantasy
May 5, 1990
California State University Dominguez Hills

There are surprisingly few really great versions of this tune, and this is one of them. Jerry takes his time, layering burning, melodic phrases.
6
When I Paint My Masterpiece
April 3, 1990
The Omni

They found the right (slower) tempo for this in later years. Also Bobby learned not to oversing. The moments when his voice fills with rage now work.
3
Space
April 5, 1989
Crisler Arena

Jerry's playing simultaneously causes and scratches an itch inside your brain. Spooky comping by Bobby.

Comments

Stella Blue
July 26, 1987
Anaheim Stadium

From the word "combine" you can tell this is one of those priceless, emotional late-era Jerry vocals. Listen and vote.
Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues
June 27, 1987
Alpine Valley Music Theatre

Possibly Phil's best vocal performance of all time.
Franklin's Tower
June 20, 1987
Greek Theater

For some reason Phil loses his fucking mind and decides to completely go for it on this version. Wild. Check out the SBD matrix.
Jack Straw
April 6, 1987
Meadowlands Arena

Burning. Emphatic. Mickey, Phil and Jerry lead the charge.
Blues For Allah
March 23, 1975
Kezar Stadium

Should be #1. Can you imagine going to this show and hearing this followed by Johnny B. Goode? The octave pedal on Jerry's guitar sounds insane and frightening. They accomplish in the Stronger Than Dirt jam what they never could regain in the next four years of playing Dancin' in the Streets.