headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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Mercury

colorful wookie

+6575


Submissions

1
China Doll
Sept. 24, 1973
Civic Arena

First one that does not follow an Eyes. Deserving of the new sources finally coming out.
1
Let It Grow
Aug. 24, 1980
Grand Center

Healthy serving, plenty of noodles
4
Beat it on Down The Line
Oct. 29, 1973
Kiel Auditorium

Potent Keith dancin' all over that pianer
1
Black Peter
June 21, 1983
Merriweather Post Pavilion

Hey, this is very well done!
2
Loser
June 21, 1983
Merriweather Post Pavilion

A tight and upbeat windup bridge
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Comments

Jack Straw
Aug. 4, 1974
Philadelphia Civic Center

Interesting observation (applies to other songs/ works both ways, e.g. jam extended, jam shortened). Often occurs gradually, but not necessarily. The kite string definitely runs out aways on 7/31 too, but this period seems to be a turning point. So many previous versions you wonder why it gets 'cut down' so quickly. In any case, yeah, Jer's solos scale a chain of high peaks here.
Help On The Way > Slipknot > Franklin's Tower
Oct. 1, 1976
Market Square Arena

This one's 43 yo today and still my favorite. So many reasons... but Jerry's leads are just so inventive, creative, and varied.
Not Fade Away
Feb. 13, 1970
Fillmore East

No longer off my radar! +1
Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
Sept. 2, 1978
Giants Stadium

High ranking version for me. Countless listens. Although the verse is omitted, one interpretation is “let’s just get right to the jamming” – and this take has one of the best breaks ever. The transition is like no other… another life-altering journey for this puppy.
New Minglewood Blues
May 7, 1977
Boston Garden

One of those glitches seems to keep this from the main list. But you don't need a lawn sign on your way home that says vote for this one. Phreggin' Ragin'/ haven't found another that tops the energy.
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