headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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Ernie5

No cholesterol.

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Submissions

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.
2
Candyman
July 12, 1976
Orpheum Theater

Spare, almost vulnerable take on this classic. Godchaux brings the church and Garcia brings the stained glass. An American beauty.
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Comments

Playin' In The Band
April 8, 1972
Wembley Empire Pool

Prime Playin'! The band simply doesn't get a whole lot more dynamic than this. The absolute insanity of Garcia's playing is muted only slightly by the underpants drawer brilliance of each (and every) player. Il pacchetto completo. 11 minutes and no fat. First half of '72 for this song: smooooooch!
Playin' In The Band
Dec. 31, 1976
Cow Palace

The sound of Lesh's bass would go way downhill in a few short years - here: just enjoy the bracing attack and depth. That's my advice anyway. This a version and recording in which to bask.
Playin' In The Band
Sept. 11, 1973
William and Mary College Hall

Like Carrion says, unassuming, slowburn but after not too long, spark dancing on a wire. As is often the case at this time, Kreutzmann & Garcia lead the charge.
Big River
Nov. 15, 1972
Oklahoma City Music Hall

1972 is home to so many best-ofs. This or '73 would be the answer to whither Big River? Spotlight on Weir's guitar - killer. Of course.
Brokedown Palace
Nov. 17, 1972
Century II Convention Hall

One of the great shows. Although it gets a little rickety at the end, Garcia's light wah/phasey guitar break is unique and mind-numbingly lovely. I might have to take a breath, too, if I played something like that.
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