headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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Ernie5

No cholesterol.

+3673


Submissions

4
Ship of Fools
Oct. 18, 1978
Winterland Arena

An especially sharp and spirited specimen - expressive vocals, the rhythm section is precise, and Garcia's guitar break is masterful. A still life.
6
Tennessee Jed
Oct. 1, 1977
Paramount Theatre

Energetic, serene AND Garcia's break is pure ragtime gold. In a good TJ, the guitar is a character. Here: a little insolent. Quality.
2
The Wheel
June 28, 1976
Auditorium Theatre

That spacious, unadorned June 1976 sound is so perfect for The Wheel. This one's dynamic and delivered with feeling. Cool show.
2
Cumberland Blues
March 20, 1971
University of Iowa

Oh man: LISTEN! Vocals are mixed a bit high, but this Cumberland has all the important "little" details. Notes the quotes. B'AM!!!!
1
Tennessee Jed
July 12, 1976
Orpheum Theater

1976: Your standard issue tipsy, warm-hearted TJ of the period. The guitar break is more conversation than guitar solo. Standard but special.
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Comments

Playin' In The Band
March 25, 1972
Academy of Music

Beautiful combination of the tight pop song version pre-/early-Godchaux & the trans-lunar injection subsequent versions will reveal. The light is going off in a big way. What sounds like a horn @4.07? I know it's not a horn, but's kind of crazy what these guys could conjure.
Playin' In The Band
Nov. 24, 1979
Golden Hall, Community Concourse

A sweet, energetic Estimated and then @ 3:30, Garcia kicks in the Mu and things kick into a whole different gear. The space out is somewhat monochrome - but intense and interesting.
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Nov. 26, 1980
The Sportatorium

Big. This is why people return to 80-81 China-Riders. Plunging forward like a train, but never out-of-control. Garcia stakes his claim with 13+ lbs. of wood and wires.
Estimated Prophet
April 27, 1977
Capitol Theatre

Beautiful early Estimated. Starting to take serious live - it's easy to see how much fun they're having playing. Maybe Godchaux not so much. But a joyous Estimated. My opinion. Watch the joy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oktHSQTUbGE
Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
April 27, 1977
Capitol Theatre

Effortless and high NRG. You can probably stash every Spring 1977 S>F in the upper echelon - they all have something slightly different to offer. The group had learned to be equal parts tight/in the pocket and loose/mysterious. They were dealing from great strength at this time no matter what they played. I think the point is taken.
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