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find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

+23519


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

Friend of the Devil
April 15, 1978
William and Mary College Hall

Might just be the greatest instrumental bridge jam section prior to final verse that they ever did in this tune. Spellbinding flowing layered & beautiful
Mississippi Halfstep Uptown Toodeloo
April 15, 1978
William and Mary College Hall

Love Jerry’s vocal on this one. Into it from the get-go with lots of grit and gusto
Here Comes Sunshine
March 18, 1994
Rosemont Horizon

Upping this for the energy/effort factor. Not crazy about the aforementioned Vinny synth sounds (I’m no midi fan either) but this is an uptempo, highly groovy reading of a classic & one of my favorite Wake of the Flood tunes, and I appreciate the band still giving it their all in a pretty rocky year. (Best to go in without first hearing one of the old gems from ‘73 though, because there’s virtually no long jazz jamming in this latter day version)
Brother Esau
April 20, 1984
Philadelphia Civic Center

The versions with the long wind-ups are my favorite & this one features a cool, patient, slinky intro section. Such an underrated Bobby tune--very nice one here. 10/28/85 at the Fox is another good one.
Aiko Aiko
March 27, 1988
Hampton Coliseum

Tight li'l nugget right here, surprised it's not higher--Jerry belts out each verse!