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find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

+24543


Submissions

4
Ramble On Rose
Dec. 30, 1977
Winterland Arena

Faster than usual tempo with just a brilliant Jerry bridge jam and no missed lyrics make this one a not-to-be-missed version.
14
The Other One
May 18, 1977
Fox Theatre

Not sure why everyone ignores '77 versions, but you're missing out if you haven't heard this one. Power packed Jerry-led fury.
4
Spanish Jam
May 21, 1995
Sam Boyd Silver Bowl

In the band's worst year they somehow came up with a really short but spot-on SJ that emerges nicely out of space. Ignore the date-check out the tune.
4
It Must Have Been The Roses
March 13, 1981
Utica Coliseum

Seek out the SBD (unknown lineage) then bask in what's possibly the best-sung, most heartfelt & lovely "Roses" ever.
54
Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
May 11, 1977
St. Paul Civic Center Arena

It's criminal that this hasn't made the list yet. Like super-smooth '77 versions? You MUST hear this.

Comments

Eyes Of The World
March 29, 1990
Nassau Coliseum

Have loved this version for so long I only recently remembered I never voted for it! Shame to take it for granted. Just such a brilliant meeting of the musical minds, Branford sounds like he's been with the band since Day 1. It's not as intense as some other versions, and really no one expects Jerry to go off like he did in '77 or '74, but his maturity and the whole band's pacing in this rendition make it an all-time classic that stands up to any version in any era. Gorgeous.
Row Jimmy
April 18, 1987
Irvine Meadows

Was at all 3 of these Irvine shows...really fun time, although you sure can see a drop-off in the exploratory jamming mode in '87 in favor of shorter "get to the point" numbers. This RJ is kind of an exception as Jerry is clearly enjoying what he's up to, especially in the final stanzas.
Mountain Jam
July 28, 1973
Grand Prix Racecourse

Should have and would have if I'd been more on the ball. Was just listening the other day to the birdsong and wharf rat from the soundcheck and delighted at how great it was. This is killer mt jam stuff!
They Love Each Other
Feb. 15, 1973
Dane County Coliseum

@ freedomhall You probably already know it but just in case you don't my all time favorite show is 10/29/77. I'll certainly brainstorm others and would appreciate your recommendations as well!
They Love Each Other
Feb. 15, 1973
Dane County Coliseum

Absolutely! This is one of those "assumed it was there already " versions. Peppy and self-assured early rendition. A fine pick!