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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

Sugaree
June 18, 1976
Capitol Theatre

I should add, my possible all-time favorite is June 15, 1976, which encapsulates just about everything beautiful about the Spring '76 iteration. https://archive.org/details/gd76-06-15.sbd.kempa.241.sbeok.shnf
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
March 14, 1981
Hartford Civic Center

Just got back from the gym and listened to this classic on the elliptical. Perfect! This C>R chugs like the best of the 80-81s and Garcia, as others have mentioned, is out front and at his 80s space-bluegrass best. Notes within scales within chords. Nobody approaches a break like this guy. Not even close. A great sounding recording just highlights the majesty of Garcia's playing - you can hear it echoing off the concession stand and bouncing off the scoreboard.
Althea
March 14, 1981
Hartford Civic Center

Just soaking in the audience ambiance - perfect for an '81 Althea. Probably one of Garcia's last great songs and, of course, he simply tears it up here. Shimmering gold leaf guitar accents. Just in time for the holidays!
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Sept. 3, 1972
Folsom Field, University of Colorado

Don't sleep on this one! Of course, it's a 1972 China>Rider, but it doesn't really distinguish itself from the other greats until Garcia's second guitar break, which is a taste treat - then the third break is JUST insane. He digs deep and does something . . . I dunno, completely new? Then the breakdown/transition is super patient and simmering. All the while, the whole crew has its collective hat set at a jaunty angle. You would too. Admit it.
Bird Song
Nov. 12, 1972
Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Hall

As noted, if you love stringed instruments, this one has Garcia, Weir, and Lesh in absolute peak collectors condition. Highlights their great interplay & illustrates the impact these three have on the overall group dynamic. Strange recording, but a whole mess o' fun.
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