headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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NW05

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Submissions

2
Terrapin Station
Feb. 14, 1986
Henry J. Kaiser Center

Jerry screws up the lyrics on Lady With a Fan, but overall this is a pretty good version. The outro jam is pretty unique also.
3
Catfish John
March 1, 1980
Capitol Theatre

From GarciaLive 1. Very funky with very good vocals from Jerry. Give it a listen!
2
Mama Tried
Feb. 14, 1986
Henry J. Kaiser Center

Not a very special version, but has some good vocals. Not too rushed either.
2
Big River
Feb. 14, 1986
Henry J. Kaiser Center

It was very rare for the Dead to play a slow River in the 80s, but this is almost ‘74 speed! Love it!
4
Day Job
Oct. 11, 1983
Madison Square Garden

Great version of Day Job coming out of the quintessential Hell in a Bucket. This song has an early Beatles vibe that I really dig.

Comments

Truckin'
Sept. 8, 1973
Nassau Coliseum

There are a few separate moments in the ending jam that are straight I Need a Miracle for a few minutes. I hadn’t noticed that on my first listen but it was kinda crazy hearing that riff for a minute. The jams are stunning. Bob is crazy, glad he’s up in the mix
Samba In The Rain
March 30, 1995
The Omni

This is another Ready or Not cut, and it’s enjoyable, though it is far from the best version. Jerry seems like he’s more present than usual for this era, and everyone else is really tight. I think this song gets too much hate. It’s FAR from their best, but it’s definitely good when it’s played well.
So Many Roads
June 23, 1992
Star Lake Amphitheater

I believe this is the one on Ready or Not. I had not heard this one until today(on Ready or Not). This one is so soulful and emotional it’s almost upsetting. It’s so great. The drumming sounds almost like how they did it in the 60s and early 70s, and Jerry’s vocals and solos are something else. The end though is what got me. I’ve never heard Jerry scream like that before. This was performed at a point of bad health for Jerry, so it makes this one even more emotional. All time version for sure
Terrapin Station
Nov. 1, 1979
Nassau Coliseum

‘79 Terrapins are extra beautiful and sweet, and this one is no exception. Though the playing is exceptional, I think the vocals are the real sweet spot with this tune. Jerry sounds like he’s about to break down and cry with his delivery. As far as playing goes, Bob is doing some need stuff with his wah-wah(I think) pedal, and Brent adds some nice colors. Overall great version
Mississippi Halfstep Uptown Toodeloo
Nov. 21, 1973
Denver Coliseum

The way this one slides effortlessly into Playin’ is spectacular. The whole tune is great but those last 15 or so seconds when they reach the transition is otherworldly