headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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Houston Head

+1516


Submissions

1
Mexicali Blues
Oct. 28, 1990
Zenith

An uncommonly rich version--Jerry and Bruce both make great use of their solos while Bob, Vince, and Phil add vibrant texture throughout.
3
It Must Have Been The Roses
Oct. 2, 1976
Riverfront Arena

Sung passionately, played precisely. Just exactly perfect version.
3
Its All Over Now
Oct. 2, 1976
Riverfront Arena

Unusually professional sounding for a cover. This one is nice and tight with just the right amount of bounce.
1
Tennessee Jed
May 12, 1974
University of Nevada

In full command of the Wall’s sonic clarity, Jerry executes on some softer, more intricate lead parts. Lovely version.
4
Little Red Rooster
April 2, 1989
Civic Arena

The Brent-driven portion of the jam is downright smoldering. The rest of the band can't resist getting in on the action.

Comments

Franklin's Tower
Nov. 9, 1979
Memorial Auditorium

My controversial opinion is that Franklin's Tower can sometimes be a touch monotonous on tape. This version absolutely lays waste to that idea. Smoldering, energetic, varied... everything you ask for in a Dead song.
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
May 3, 1972
Olympia Theater

The pre-transition jam in China Cat feels like a bunch of old friends co-chilling at someone's place. They're all kind of doing their own thing, but everything feels casually harmonious. There's nothing else quite like this.
Bertha
April 14, 1972
Tivolis Koncertsal

This is a perfect version of Bertha. 10/10, no notes.
You Win Again
Nov. 20, 1971
Pauley Pavilion

Extremely lyrical guitar solo. It almost reminds me of what Jerry does with Loser when he essentially brings the protagonist of the song out of the sung verse and into the instrument.
Truckin'
Nov. 20, 1971
Pauley Pavilion

Everyone is absolutely dialed in, but Keith shines brightest at several points. He's still in his exploratory phase and is loud in the mix. Jazz meets Honky Tonk.