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find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

+23517


Submissions

8
Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
Dec. 27, 1982
Oakland Auditorium

Seek out the CM SBD (2d set only). This is a fine combo w/Brent & Jer driving Scarlet & Phil prominent in Fire. '82 was a sweet year for S>F!
7
The Other One
Oct. 12, 1977
Manor Downs

Another roaring out of the gate and sustained thereafter 01 that should not be ignored. '77 had its great share & this is one of 'em. Heavy on Phil!
9
Brown Eyed Women
Oct. 4, 1981
Rainbow Theater

While I prefer the 1977 BEWs overall this one is excellent for its speed & precision & Jerry nailing all the lyrics w/ gusto! Don't overlook this gem!
4
Cold Rain and Snow
Oct. 4, 1981
Rainbow Theater

The overlooked European tour. Love Jer's voice for this song in '81.Hangs an extra vocal note or 2 on the chilly winds don't blow refrain. Great stuff
5
Ramble On Rose
Oct. 26, 1971
The Palestra, U. of Rochester

One of the earliest live versions ever and boy oh boy is Jerry into it. Belts out the lyrics. Quick tempo & a real joy to hear!

Comments

China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
May 26, 1973
Kezar Stadium

This version has the X factor, the little twists and turns that set it apart from its many great counterparts of the year and era. As many have said here the shorter Feelin' Groovy Jam really works in the less is more sense but mostly it's the relaxed, confident tone Jerry takes on his turns and Bob's really outstanding counter rhythms that make this one shine. Sounds even better with new boxed set clean ups...deserves to move up the ladder.
Althea
Feb. 26, 1981
Uptown Theater

Great end jam & if you don't get bothered by Garcia lyrical miscues, go ahead and upvote. But the mumblecore thing keeps me from sending this one up the ladder. Too bad b/c Jer does shed the end jam...it's just that there are many other versions (5/1/81 just for starters) where he does the same but doesn't butcher the words.
Let It Grow
Dec. 5, 1981
Market Square Arena

If you've heard the masterful 5/1/81 version & loved it you'll fall head over heels for this one, too...just about its equal and that's saying something. Garcia is lightning on this but in total control and the rest of the band is just in heavy beast mode, letting up on the throttle only to ease seamlessly into the two quiet drifting sections like a feather on a gentle breeze. Superior rendition.
Aiko Aiko
Oct. 7, 1977
University of New Mexico

Smooth like silk version with good pep and pace. Hey Now.
Not Fade Away
Aug. 30, 1980
The Spectrum

excellent recommendation thank you--the slow, slinky NFA's are my favorite & this one delivers!