headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

please login or register.

hvd

sleuth

+21570


Submissions

4
Let It Grow
Oct. 9, 1984
The Centrum

Liquid fire jamming
6
Feel Like A Stranger
Oct. 18, 1984
Meadowlands Arena

Super tight, and funky version. Contender for best of 84'.
15
Estimated Prophet
Dec. 16, 1994
Sports Arena

This estimated prophet is wild, intense, and as wicked as they come. With Branford Marsalis, the jam is almost as cosmic as a Dark Star.
17
Samson and Delilah
Nov. 6, 1977
Broome County Arena

As is the case with nearly all 1977 versions, this Samson and Delilah is huge and each member provides an energetic presence.
3
Bird Song
April 14, 1971
Davis Gym, Bucknell University

Early version of the song, but definitely finding its way nicely, a great mellow version that is jammed 10+ min.

Comments

Hard to Handle
July 31, 1971
Yale Bowl, Yale University

Although Jerry doesn't have the clearest twists and turns in his solo, it is still coherent enough--melodically-- to be considered a top H2H solo. This song is generally a pretty good barometer to test if Jerry is really on during a specific performance. He rips this version up basically meaning he's on this show, check it out.
Mister Charlie
Aug. 6, 1971
Hollywood Palladium

Power packed but condensed to such a sort time frame that it feels at any moment the song will just combust and explode. If you want to dabble in labeling certain versions "best ever" or whatever, this one certainly qualifies. Flawless energetic and booming.
Stella Blue
Oct. 14, 1983
Hartford Civic Center

Sublime and serene, regardless of era, the emotion of this version stands out. Vocals are chill evoking, great song, this version does it proper justice.
Black Peter
June 5, 1970
Fillmore West

Surprised hadn't been posted earlier. One of the best acoustic Black Peter's i've heard. Garcia sounds great. Dark but not intrusively so, last verses especially are powerful in a way only this song can provide.
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Nov. 11, 1973
Winterland Arena

Certainly one of the top versions, probably top 5. Seamless transition, one of the better China Cats ever and the Rider smokes quick. Impossible to go wrong with Fall 73'