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

Jack Straw
June 23, 1974
Jai-Alai Fronton

Restraint carries the day. Everyone plays slightly behind the beat, but it never drags. In fact, it pulsates. A lovely, skittering version. And, fuck, it was performed at a Jai-Alai Fronton! That's just bizarro. This one should probably be better known.
The Other One
Oct. 19, 1971
Northrop Auditorium, U. of Minn.

This, to me, is the first moment one realizes that Godchaux's bringing Blue Note onto the stage. Forever changing everything.
Eyes Of The World
Dec. 31, 1976
Cow Palace

Full-throated! Lesh gets things off to an inviting start and the rest of the track does not disappoint. The transition to Wharf Rat is beautiful and Who-like.
New Potato Caboose
Oct. 12, 1968
Avalon Ballroom

This show is almost like a Best Of. Every song here is in ace form. Thus, the New Potato Caboose is a fierce calliope, out-of-control.
New Potato Caboose
Feb. 14, 1968
Carousel Ballroom

This may be my favorite take. The group handles the complex and dynamic elements like graceful sleepwalkers. I, too, arrived relatively late to the bosom of this amazing piece of psychedelia. This version gets absolute complete commitment from everyone - even Pig at his most melodic and spaced. I'm not sure there are any bad New Potato Cabooses, but this one is at the top of the mountain. My various breads and various butters.
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