headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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ferretstew

bumpin' tunes

+1460


Submissions

1
Around and Around
Feb. 1, 1978
Uptown Theatre

This song is not often a highlight for me, but this version is an exception. The band is giddy (well, Bob anyway).
7
Casey Jones
Jan. 15, 1979
Springfield Civic Center

This one does not disappoint in the middle of a week of hot Casey Joneses.
27
Bertha
May 5, 1977
New Haven Coliseum

Slow and thunderous, it rumbles along joyfully.
12
Black Peter
Jan. 31, 1978
Uptown Theater

Jerry shreds.
45
Wharf Rat
May 25, 1972
Strand Lyceum

UJB>Jam>Wharf Rat>Dark Star. The Wharf Rat comes out of a soft, full, thoughtful space - a detour on the journey to the Star.

Comments

Black Throated Wind
Aug. 27, 1972
Old Renaissance Faire Grounds

The main guitar riff in this song has more punch in this version than any other I've heard. It's a fat, twisted, melty sound. 9/28/72 comes close.
The Music Never Stopped
Feb. 3, 1978
Dane County Coliseum

This is the power and the glory, out of control. Definitive. Check out the audience tape too.
Playin' In The Band
Nov. 30, 1973
Boston Music Hall

This is a more straightforward version than some from late '73 and is my go-to 1973 Playin to just get lost in.
Playin' In The Band
Aug. 6, 1974
Roosevelt Stadium

Agree with the jazz fusion comment. This is probably as close as the Dead got to electric Miles. Plus there's a hard funk jam leading into a boppin' '74 Scarlet, followed by the best most rockin' reprise ever. Yeah, this version is pretty great.
Playin' In The Band
June 16, 1974
Iowa State Fairgrounds

This is one of the most interesting versions. Lots of ear-catching moments.