headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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MrMystery

Dead on arrival

+2490


Submissions

4
Dear Mr. Fantasy
May 5, 1990
California State University Dominguez Hills

There are surprisingly few really great versions of this tune, and this is one of them. Jerry takes his time, layering burning, melodic phrases.
6
When I Paint My Masterpiece
April 3, 1990
The Omni

They found the right (slower) tempo for this in later years. Also Bobby learned not to oversing. The moments when his voice fills with rage now work.
3
Space
April 5, 1989
Crisler Arena

Jerry's playing simultaneously causes and scratches an itch inside your brain. Spooky comping by Bobby.
1
Feel Like A Stranger
Feb. 5, 1989
Henry J Kaiser Convention Center

Busting out of the gate in the first show of the year. Great interaction between Bobby and Phil, tasteful commentary by Jerry.
1
When I Paint My Masterpiece
Oct. 14, 1988
Miami Arena

Great version because Bobby is understated, even weary. This gives Jerry the space to jump into the choruses with emotion. Dodging lions.
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Comments

Smokestack Lightnin'
March 28, 1985
Nassau Coliseum

Emphatic. Matt Kelly sounds great.
Morning Dew
Oct. 12, 1984
Augusta Civic Center

The depth of feeling in Jerry's note bends at the beginning of the coda makes this version remarkable.
Cold Rain and Snow
June 13, 1984
Red Rocks Ampitheatre

Listen to Phil on this one. Crazy, crazy, crazy. Listen to the Suraci aud.
China Doll
April 27, 1984
Providence Civic Center

This is a beautiful China Doll with just the right lurching, hesitant quality the song requires. Great coda jam at the end, Bobby and Phil especially, with a slight Crazy Fingers tease.
Estimated Prophet
April 19, 1984
Philadelphia Civic Center

Monster version. You may not think so considering how loudly Jerry plays the wrong chord coming out of the first solo, but as is so often the case, he makes up for it in the jam. Listen to him reiterate the theme at around 10 minutes and then 12. Bobby's whammy bar playing is sublime.
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