headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

please login or register.

grendel

Books and Music

+24538


Submissions

26
Dupree's Diamond Blues
Feb. 4, 1978
Milwaukee Auditorium

Can't beat this one. Played w/out a hitch, Jerry nails all the lyrics, and when it's over Phil says: "And that's a true story, folks!"
20
Eyes Of The World
April 3, 1982
The Scope

Unlike nearly every other '80's version, this one isn't all speeded out and rushed; instead it's groovy, jazzy, intricate, very pretty for its time
19
Promised Land
Nov. 11, 1973
Winterland Arena

Yep...too rocking a tune to be ignored. Hard to beat this one, especially as kick-off of trio: Promised>Bertha>GSET
46
Fire On The Mountain
July 13, 1985
Ventura County Fairgrounds

Extremely rare stand-alone "Fire"...2nd song, first set, and a real barn-burner!
4
Deal
Oct. 30, 1977
Assembly Hall - Indiana University

Garcia's solos roll like lightning & rock like thunder. Sings it w/gusto, too. Not to be missed.

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!