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.
show more submissions

Comments

The Other One
Nov. 8, 1969
Fillmore West

Sweeps through like a cyclone. The way they completely sneak up on the verse from the side - cheek. And then it just ignites.
Dark Star
Nov. 8, 1969
Fillmore West

Finally! At long last I get to spend some QT with this show. This is a beautifully detailed, relaxed, smooth Dark Star that ebbs into many mystery coves while never going off-course (those detours were built into the itinerary). Everyone shines, but TC definitely plays a large role in the mood of this classic.
Help On The Way > Slipknot > Franklin's Tower
Feb. 26, 1977
Swing Auditorium

I'll stand up for the Help here - I think it's pretty swanky. The gorgeous DP29 re-master puts Lesh right on your fucking couch. Luxurious electric bass. Obviously the Slipknot! is another level. Garcia is working some shit out. Almost sounds like a bowed instrument at times. Insane guitar playing. Everyone's hopping.
The Music Never Stopped
Feb. 26, 1977
Swing Auditorium

Just follow the bouncing Lesh. Then a twinkletoes Garcia strobes through like glitter. Yes, he's in fine fettle. Gets weird @3:15, but picks up its dribble and slides gracefully down the runway. And mixes its metaphors like similes. O no work tomorrow.
Tennessee Jed
Feb. 26, 1977
Swing Auditorium

Sleepwalking on a tight rope. Sweet, swaying, dreamy old ditty. It's really hard to isolate any one player on this take - everyone is just fucking Charles In Charge. Perfect bridge between Fall 76 and Spring 77. Closer to the latter, but 1976 is still pulsing there. When Godchaux and Garcia go mano y mano, it's highlight reel stuff. Telepathic. Honors a great song.
show more comments
headyversion loves the dead but is in no way affiliated with The Grateful Dead or affiliated enterprises. find out more >:) >:)