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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.

Comments

Shakedown Street
Dec. 13, 1978
Curtis Hixon Convention Hall

Tempo is too fast but Jerry's playing in the jam is sick.
Goin' Down The Road Feelin' Bad
Dec. 12, 1978
Jai-Alai Fronton

Uptempo version with Jerry on fire.
Terrapin Station
Oct. 18, 1978
Winterland Arena

One of the great things about Jerry is his fuck it attitude when he forgets lyrics. Here he goes into an extended, unique solo. When he does sing there's an interesting sad quality to his voice. Coda is burning.
U.S. Blues (Wave That Flag)
Oct. 17, 1978
Winterland Arena

They sound happy to be back
Fire On The Mountain
Sept. 16, 1978
Sphinx Theatre

Everyone sounds great here. Love the chromatic intro. This show is underrated because of the mythology of the Dead blowing the big ones. The first show was awful, the second one was bad, and this one was awesome.