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

Jack Straw
June 10, 1990
Cal Expo

Needs a bump for certain. There are a ridiculous number of super-hit versions of this song. They performed it well in every era (though the extended jam portion/touchdown didn't really take off until 1977), but this version is so good it belongs in any "Top 10" discussion. I'll still rank several higher (such as 10/29/77, 6/4/78, 4/6/87, and 12/29/77 to name just a few, but I'd never rank this version anywhere below #10 all time.)
China Doll
Oct. 23, 1980
Radio City Music Hall

This to me beats every electric version and really brings out the true essence of the song. It's never sounded more beautiful or haunting. Also love the crowd reaction after the "Take up your China Doll..." chorus.
Pretty Peggy O
May 5, 1977
New Haven Coliseum

Has one of the best mid-song jams ever performed in this tune There are a couple others I like a tad better overall (12/27/77, 5/19/77), but this is easily a top-tier version that also gets my vote.
Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
May 5, 1977
New Haven Coliseum

My guess is that there are so many incredible S>F combos in May '77 that equally worthy entries like this one just get over- looked. This whole show cooks (check out the Peggy-O), and this combo is up there w/any of the best from this golden month/year.
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Dec. 9, 1981
Activity Center - University of Colorado

Not only is this version sick, it is sickeningly underrated here. The transition jamming is furious and the "Rider" may actually be better than the "China", which is extremely rare indeed. PLUS you get the added fun of Bobby actually saying "Here comes the breakdown, ladies and gentlemen" during the acapella coda section at the end. If this isn't the best China>Rider of 1981 I don't know what is (yes, it's better than MSG from March), and it stands as one of the best post 70's versions ever played. So many more votes needed here. For real.
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