headyversion
find the best versions of grateful dead songs
Grateful Dead Feb. 18, 1971
Capitol Theater Port Chester, NY | Listen on archive
250
Dark Star
Notable for so-called Beautiful Jam out of Wharf Rat and back into Dark Star...MUST LISTEN
14
Hard to Handle
Pigpen's voice is deep, SC-soaked and clear. The jam is ballsy and pushing out against the seams.
19
Loser
First Loser ever and the last Mickey show before his break. Brilliant version, hot energetic vocals and that good '71 sound.
15
Greatest Story Ever Told
Primordial version, first time played, introduced as "Mickey wants to call this one 'The Pump Man' for reasons of his own." Raw and unlike any other.
10
Playin' In The Band
First performance ever and it's slower, but beautiful and raw. Bobby sings like a country warbler typical of the '71s. Historically interesting.
9
Uncle John's Band
Energetic encore. Rolling drums and tight energy ending a brilliant show like they were ready for another set.
9
Me and Bobby McGee
Maybe I'm the only Head out there who digs this song, but damn if this isn't a beauty. Tight harmonies and a good-times feeling.
1
Mama Tried
More relaxed pace than usual, which allows Bob to give a nice, thoughtful vocal performance.
3
St. Stephen
They sound a bit bored with it to my ears until Phil kicks them into gear around the 4:00 mark. Probably smart that they gave it a break after '71...