headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

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Submissions

41
Sugar Magnolia
Oct. 29, 1977
Evans Field House, Northern Illinois University

Best ever. No fooling. Don't miss Mickey and Billy dueling each other at the frenzied end jam before heading into SSDD. Whole version insane!
80
Jack Straw
Oct. 20, 1984
Carrier Dome, Syracuse U

Crazy hard driving insanisty to end the first set. One of those jam segments that builds and builds and KABOOMS into final verse. Phil fans: a must
15
Stella Blue
April 19, 1982
Baltimore Civic Center

Sweet & melty....gorgeous harmonies from Brent.
88
Sugaree
Oct. 16, 1977
Louisiana State U

1977 was a helluva year for this song. I have no quarrel w/ 5/5, 5/19, or 5/21, but I think this one beats 'em all by a nose!
53
St. Stephen
Oct. 29, 1977
Evans Field House, Northern Illinois University

With all due rfespect to Barton Hall & others, this is the best version out there (IMO). Bluesy, rockin', jammin', just exactly perfect
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Comments

Box of Rain
Feb. 28, 1973
Salt Palace

Agree that we shouldn't overlook official DP releases. This version is about as good as it gets outside of the studio version. Phil nails all the lyrics and Donna adds nicely...both the emotion & execution are there. Also check out the outstandingly smooth Row Jimmy from this release (the Utah show.)
The Music Never Stopped
Sept. 25, 1981
Stabler Arena

Very solid version from an overall ridiculously hot show. Also check out the Scarlet>Fire and the tasty Sugar Mag sandwich. One of the best of '81 easily.
Touch of Grey
March 16, 1990
Capital Centre

Easily the cleanest version, & one of the most energetic ever performed. #1 as far as I'm concerned and it needs way more votes. Excellent call.
Eyes Of The World
May 13, 1983
Greek Theater

Best of 1983...true, not an outstanding year for this tune, but on this one they provide the kind of long, relaxed jamming style they would revive in the early 90's to great success. This version sounds much like the excellent 3/31/91 rendition from NC...if you like that one, you'll like this one as well.
Mason's Children
Jan. 24, 1970
Honolulu Civic Auditorium

Must agree...plus I never even knew the Dead played Hawaii!
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