headyversion
find the best versions of grateful dead songs
Grateful Dead Nov. 20, 1971
Pauley Pavilion Los Angeles, CA | Listen on archive
13
The Other One
Totally overlooked: An intricate, mercurial, and explosive monster masterwork. Overshadowed by but totally different from the enormous 12/02.
2
Not Fade Away
Check out the cool China Cat jam leading into GDTRFB! Some pristine versions of NFA>GDTRFB from the Fall '71 tour - this one's no exception.
1
Jack Straw
This version soars thanks to Keith's dynamic piano work. You'd never know they'd only been playing JS for a month...great one.
6
Cumberland Blues
Keith made all the difference turning this into a barrelhouse powerhouse. What a tremendous performance of a fun song.
2
Big Railroad Blues
Has that great chugging rhythm of '71 versions. Keith (per usual) is a huge factor, but Billy's drumming is just as potent here. Awesome version!
3
You Win Again
Just the third performance, and it's an A+ banger of a country twanger. I wish they'd kept this song in the rotation.
1
Sugar Magnolia
Explosive, propulsive, a juggernaut of barrelhouse piano and tasty Garcia licks. Just what a Sugar Mags should be.
2
One More Saturday Night
This song was a firestorm in the early Keith era - just listen to him bang those keys here! You can practically see the smoke billowing from his keys.
2
Bertha
The new DaP release showcases how good this, especially w/Keith way up front in the mix & kicking the tune into ragtime jazz gear-a fantastic version!
1
Casey Jones
The band hits another gear toward the end, especially after the false ending. I've never heard Billy go as crazy as this before. Great one!
2
Sugaree
Long before this song was a 15-minute soloing showcase, Jerry put the gusto into his vocals. This one exemplifies that - the whole band sounds great!