headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

please login or register.

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.

Comments

Black Peter
Nov. 29, 1979
Cleveland Public Hall

Jerry's playing is better at this show than even four days before, like he's finally getting used to Tiger. Listen to the control and emotion in the solo.
Franklin's Tower
Nov. 9, 1979
Memorial Auditorium

The end of this is outrageous
Estimated Prophet
Nov. 5, 1979
The Spectrum

Phil plays something wild at the end of the jam. Doesn't even sound like him - maybe he's plucking with his fingers? Anyway it's cool
Althea
Nov. 4, 1979
Civic Center

Jerry sings this carefully and with feeling. Last solo is big.
Not Fade Away
Nov. 2, 1979
Nassau Coliseum

At 10 minutes there's the ghost of a St. Stephen tease that has all of Long Island cheering, but of course the boys succeed in disappointing. Great NFA.