headyversion
find the best versions of grateful dead songs
Grateful Dead May 20, 1973
U.C. Santa Barbara, CA | Listen on archive
14
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Really tight and uptempo. Jerry sings through a cold, but energetic and inspired guitar work. Perfect transition into Rider.
7
They Love Each Other
Most rockin' version I know. The boys sound big and tight throughout this wonderful show.
20
Playin' In The Band
Massive Phil and Jerry co-soloing in a supersonic mindmeld for 19 minutes. Very special with a raw, almost brutish energy.
11
The Other One
Starts like a rocket, lands on Mars bigtime, then light-speed re-entry to a killer Eyes in under 10 minutes after a balls-out Truckin. Great set.
7
Big Railroad Blues
Seriously massive energy. Love the sloppy solo Jer tosses in during a verse just for shits!
9
Truckin'
This one gets wayyy out there for Truckin after a "Nobody's Fault But Mine" jam before > Drums...PITB-esque
2
Deal
A big showcase for Jerry's vocals - he's nice and aggressive here. Keith and Billy sound great as well backing him.
2
Looks Like Rain
Keith's gentle keys add SO much to this version - a very emotive rendition, just as it should be
1
Johnny B. Goode
Love versions of this track from 72 and 73, and this one's no exception. Keith's piano is great, Jerry's playing with gusto, everyone's locked in.
2
Promised Land
Opens set two with energy. Keith and Jerry duel it out the whole way through the song.
2
El Paso
As is typical of this era of the band, Keith totally owns this version. I can't get enough of just how tasty his piano fills are here.