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find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

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Submissions

5
The Weight
June 7, 1991
Deer Creek Music Center

This is really the best one I've heard--everyobody nails their parts/lyrics...great piano fills on the side (yay, Bruce!). Just exactly, etc.
20
Althea
Sept. 9, 1982
Saenger Performing Arts Center

Incredible. Check out Brent's fills during the epic post-lyrics outro. A must-listen top tier Althea w/bounce, power, & panache!
17
Deal
Feb. 23, 1974
Winterland Arena

Apparently no one is aware that a fellow named Keith played in this band or this version would have 50 votes already. Needs to be heard!
1
Pretty Peggy O
Sept. 4, 1980
Providence Civic Center

Outside of 1977 this may be the best version I've heard. A+ vocals from Jerry, killer mid-solo; slightly faster tempo. Must hear. Gr8 Matrix!
4
Greatest Story Ever Told
Oct. 11, 1989
Meadowlands Arena

Bob's lyric phrasing on this version is unique. He sings it in a way so different than any I've heard before & it's inventive & super-fun. Must hear!

Comments

Pretty Peggy O
April 14, 1978
Cassell Coliseum - Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

The solo on this one is just transcending, and a little bit longer than most. Instead of Jerry returning to the verse after the "high point" conclusion of his solo, he re-enters the gentle main theme for a bit, letting everyone settle down, before continuing on to the final 3 verses. Just extraordinary stuff.
Bertha
June 7, 1977
Winterland Arena

Needs to move up! Everything you want from a Bertha, and a perfect way to start a classic show
Jack Straw
Oct. 10, 1980
Warfield Theater

I don't care where this one ends up but it can't stay here (4 votes with mine just added.) This is a rip roaring version that builds to several peaks before the final Wichita verse comes crashing down. I know this show gets all its attention for the acoustic set but if you ignore this A+ electric JS it's truly your loss. I recommend the Matrix available... best sound around for a show with few high quality sound options. UP IT!
Dark Star
Jan. 17, 1969
Civic Auditorium

Yes! My favorite kind of Dark Star...more music, less dissonance. To each his own, but these more music-oriented '69 versions are my go-to's. (10/25/69 still my #1 fave,)
Terrapin Station
July 8, 1978
Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Great show & version indeed. Should be higher. 1/22/78 gets most of the attention from this year but this one's along the same lines.