headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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Ernie5

No cholesterol.

+3668


Submissions

10
Jack Straw
June 10, 1973
RFK Stadium

Relaxed and joyous space-age electric guitar semi-ballad.
9
Bertha
Feb. 21, 1971
Capitol Theater

Warp speed, precise, slightly unhinged, and driving into the greenish-blue evening.
1
Jack Straw
Oct. 30, 1971
Taft Auditorium

Godchaux leads a version that seethes with the excitement of a new song.
3
Brown Eyed Women
May 20, 1973
U.C.

A giggly, slangy Garcia masterpiece (in sweet show sauce). Goes down EZ.
8
Mexicali Blues
Feb. 28, 1973
Salt Palace

So good you can practically see the border town.
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Comments

Dark Star
Sept. 21, 1972
The Spectrum

My favorite Dark Stars are generally from 1970, but almost everything from Fall '72 is so freakin' good it just seems difficult to single out one version over another. They were so on top of their game and so consistent. We all have our favorites from this era (I'm still working on mine), but it's subtle and subjective. Kind of splitting the atom to find the BEST.
Dark Star
Sept. 21, 1972
The Spectrum

I think one can extol the virtues of this Dark Star without disparaging another (more popular) one. This version has its own kit - different than Veneta. Very deliberate and detailed. I dig when they're off to the races @14:00 and they keep building, as surefooted as if they had the blueprints. I guess I think 8/27's a little tighter, but I ain't pickin' one.
Dark Star
Sept. 21, 1972
The Spectrum

I'm on it!
The Other One
Sept. 17, 1972
Baltimore Civic Center

OK - on my list: Topics For Further Research. One of my favorite songs in one of my favorite periods. How do I not know this one intimately?
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Sept. 27, 1972
Stanley Theatre

Fall 1972 is the peak time for C>R in my mind, so even an average version is still special. Weir taking liberties throughout China Cat is weird, highly original, and flavorful. He's simply slashing at times & it's pretty awesome. I dislike the Feelin' Groovy transition for the most part (a little cutesy), so no demerit from me.
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