headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

please login or register.

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.

Comments

The Other One
Sept. 2, 1968
Betty Nelson's Organic Raspberry Farm

Garcia's compressed Les Paul entrance slashes through the crazy-tight group. '68 Other Ones are fun little bite-sized power packs. Smokin' hot.
Cryptical Envelopment
Sept. 2, 1968
Betty Nelson's Organic Raspberry Farm

Light-footed and deft.
Help On The Way > Slipknot > Franklin's Tower
June 3, 1976
Paramount Theatre

Although not the debut, this marks the first time road-testing this 3-cylinder. They're very deliberate, but they're still really smooth. And a nice, roomy Slipknot!
Here Comes Sunshine
June 10, 1973
RFK Stadium

Probably ought to have more votes. Doesn't have the pedigree of later '73 versions, but just as sweet. Smooth and 3-D. And this one has the advantage of Garcia's Strat - still the vessel of his finest work to my mind. + some very psychedelic playing. I wouldn't kick it out of bed for being a killer version of Here Comes Sunshine.
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
July 21, 1972
Paramount Northwest Theater

First in a run of great Paramount Theatre performances, this show doesn't get a ton of play, but J. Louise! Seething version. Promotes the good fight against tooth decay.