headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

+24543


Submissions

31
Let It Grow
Oct. 2, 1977
Paramount Theatre

The most "Spanish-flavored" of LIG's, evokes old southwest almost Mariachi vibe. Brilliant Garcia changes-Rise&Fall!
25
Althea
May 6, 1980
Rec Hall, Penn State U

Recent Road Trips release is a perfecto: Outstanding vocals from Jerry and a jam after the lyrics that grooves and rocks super-hard. 5-star version!
46
Deep Elem Blues
May 2, 1970
Harpur College

Jerry's voice just exactly bluesy perfect...groovy & slow acoustic cadence & the boys harmonizing sweetly on the chrouses. Outstanding early version
30
Box of Rain
March 20, 1986
Hampton Coliseum

A+ for the crowd alone. Are there better ones? Of course. But I was there & the ecstacy after 14 years of no Box makes this version legendary.
15
Mississippi Halfstep Uptown Toodeloo
Sept. 18, 1990
Madison Square Garden

Astonishingly strong Jerry vocals, especially given the year, and some of the prettiest Hornsby-led fills make this one a real great sleeper pick.

Comments

Let It Grow
Oct. 29, 1977
Evans Field House, Northern Illinois University

100% agree (best of '77) and Garcia goes just ballistic in the latter half of the song.
Bird Song
Sept. 27, 1972
Stanley Theatre

Phil can be heard after they finish saying "Dynamite!" Agreed.
Eyes Of The World
April 27, 1985
Frost Amphitheatre

Yes, the jamming is nice & the transition into Eyes is a fun, rare treat, but it has to be noted also that Jerry's voice is absolutely terrible here* (as it was for much of '85). Not trying to hate at all, just saying that when it comes to overall headiness of this version, this should be taken into account. * Just listen to him barely croaking out the opening line in Scarlet, and Eyes isn't much better.
Good Lovin'
Oct. 29, 1977
Evans Field House, Northern Illinois University

Jerry's 2 solos push this into legendary territory. No surprise from the show that never stops giving.
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Sept. 21, 1972
The Spectrum

This whole show is spectacular (especially the DS)...Top 3 of '72, and yes, that includes the Europe shows.