headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

+24543


Submissions

130
Wharf Rat
Oct. 7, 1977
University of New Mexico

Most pristine version I've ever heard. So smooth, so clear. Keith leads the way, Jerry brings it home. . Essential for all Wharf Rat fans
18
Aiko Aiko
Aug. 10, 1982
Iowa Fieldhouse - University of Iowa

Another kick-ass version out of Space...not as long&rising a wind-up as the 9-14-82 tripiness), but raucous, fun & full of N'awlins cajun rock!
36
Cold Rain and Snow
Oct. 12, 1983
Madison Square Garden

Powerhouse. Garcia belts out vocals. Hear amazing riff of added notes in the main theme instrumental sections.Drums pound away as well.
7
Brown Eyed Women
Nov. 29, 1979
Cleveland Public Hall

Jerry commits strong vocals to this rendition--he's into it big time...& Brent adds great accompaniment. Very strong Garcia bridge jam as well.
118
Cumberland Blues
April 8, 1972
Wembley Empire Pool

They could actually hit the high notes in '72, and the jams? Goodness gracious--this one just rips a hole in the space/time continuum!

Comments

Shakedown Street
April 26, 1983
The Spectrum

When this site is working its best magic, it's pointing me to versions of songs like this, that were totally off my radar, far down the list, yet worthy of being so much higher. This whole shows is just chock full of A+ material and this Shakedown is probably head of the class. Confident even in Jerry's vocal delivery (mostly, it is early 80s after all), but chiefly it's the fierce funk of the faster tempo but un-sloppy delivery and the massive dig down dirty jamming post-lyrics that makes this a best of 80s candidate. Also check out the stellar Help>Slip>Franklin's. Women R Smarter, and much more. Excellent recommendations/comments by all. +1 easy.
He's Gone
April 17, 1972
Tivolis Koncertsal

Almost like a different tune it's so high energy. Jerry digs in with great leads. Missing the "goin' where the wind don't blow so strange" bridge that would be added later.
Help On The Way > Slipknot > Franklin's Tower
April 29, 1977
The Palladium

One of those shows that screams for a clean SBD. Suffers not from performance but from available sound quality.
Big River
May 16, 1972
Theatre Hall

why am i not seeing this song listed on any of the archive versions of this show?
Playin' In The Band
April 2, 1973
Boston Garden

^^^^ It happens sometimes, brother, it happens ;-) Sticking by my two cents on this one, though...love what it does.