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find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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grendel

Books and Music

+24543


Submissions

6
Candyman
Oct. 28, 1977
Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Hall

There's a Betty Board of this one available. And it's gorgeous. What's stopping you?
9
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

Comments

Comes A Time
July 17, 1976
Orpheum Theatre

Never get tired of hearing that gorgeous outro jam.
Franklin's Tower
Nov. 29, 1980
Alligator Alley Gym, University of Florida

I wish they'd made more attempts at Shakedown>Franklin's. While the transition here isn't in their seamless transition hall of fame, it's not awful, and it is fun and adventurous if nothing else, but lost in discussion of the hand off is how good this standalone Franklin's really is. What I love most about it is how direct it is. No meandering here like many longer (and higher ranked) versions are. Jerry just attacks every lead and the band is fully cranked up behind. There's nary a note wasted here and there's a lot to get excited about, plus the novelty of emerging from the shake. Easy ups for me on this one.
Sugar Magnolia
June 20, 1983
Merriweather Post Pavilion

Frenetic, energetic, explosive especially in the latter part of the tune, but, it has to be said...pretty darn sloppy overall. Donnie's criticism might be a bit overdone but he's not totally wrong. Can't upvote this one even though the energy of it is undeniable. Must have been a blast to be there.
Wharf Rat
Dec. 27, 1977
Winterland Arena

Lost in a sea of great Rats from this year, I suspect, but yeah, like almost every song/show from the end of this Winterland run, this one is outstanding.
Cassidy
March 28, 1985
Nassau Coliseum

Three tiered monster, every turn executed beautifully, a fine example of a long version success. Would likely have more votes if a strronger SBD version was available but there's a decent one to be found. Worth the listen.