headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

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Submissions

34
Dupree's Diamond Blues
Nov. 6, 1977
Broome County Arena

Outstanding version with a nice Jerry-led jam early in the tune, after the first verse.
8
Eyes Of The World
Sept. 15, 1978
Sphinx Theatre

Almost criminal this isn't here yet. Grab the Egypt '78 CD & hear one of the loveliest "Eyes" ever. Jazzy, intricate, sweet, & inspired!
13
Loser
Oct. 14, 1977
Hofheinz Pavilion

Possibly the most underrated version of all time with an absolute MONSTER jam by Jerry. Must listen!
8
Looks Like Rain
March 24, 1988
Omni Coliseum

Listen closely: I HATE THIS SONG. Always have. So when I say this is killer it means a lot; & fans of this song tell me it's legendary.
18
Row Jimmy
May 3, 1977
The Palladium

After 3/20/77 and 4/12/78 this may be the best RJ ever. Check out the Miller version that fills in a tape-flip gap & revel in more Garcia magic.
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Comments

Box of Rain
Nov. 17, 1972
Century II Convention Hall

May be the best live version of a tune that, frankly, wonderful as it is, was almost never performed well on stage. (The studio version remains the standard.) But they nail all the lyrics here and Jerry has some sweet riffs. Phil still can't sing, though.
Wharf Rat
Oct. 14, 1977
Hofheinz Pavilion

This month and year was phenomenal for the Rat.
Uncle John's Band
Nov. 17, 1972
Century II Convention Hall

Since getting DaP11 I've been digging this version big time, and it gets better and better after each spin. It's played at a jaunty, peppy pace--a little moreso than most versions--and is really tight. The vocals are spot-on and the jam section before the final reprise is full of swagger and hot jammy goodness. Deserves to climb the ladder here!
Playin' In The Band
Sept. 21, 1972
The Spectrum

New appreciation for this one after recent multiple listenings. So many great versions from this year, but this one gets my upvote for Keith's contributions in the more mellow and thoughtful passages. This whole show is spectacular.
Eyes Of The World
Nov. 4, 1977
Cotterell Gym - Colgate University

Needs more bump-up. Jerry plays at ludicrous speed and yet it doesn't sound at all sloppy. A unique version for '77 and one that deserves to be in at least double digits on the big board.
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