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find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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Submissions

7
El Paso
May 11, 1977
St. Paul Civic Center Arena

Crisp and nimble
12
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
April 9, 1983
Hampton Coliseum

One of the best of the year
28
Loser
Oct. 29, 1977
Evans Field House, Northern Illinois University

Every song from this show should be on here. This Loser is certainly deserving, solo is on point.
19
Good Lovin'
Nov. 4, 1977
Cotterell Gym - Colgate University

Intense and quick jamming. Charged Bertha > Good Lovin' to open the legendary trio, 11-4, 11-5,11-6
5
Mississippi Halfstep Uptown Toodeloo
Nov. 23, 1978
Capital Centre

Stunned this wasn't posted earlier. Superb 1/2 step opener, Garcia plays melodically and beautifully.

Comments

Casey Jones
May 26, 1973
Kezar Stadium

Smokin!
Mississippi Halfstep Uptown Toodeloo
May 26, 1973
Kezar Stadium

One of my favorite versions, great fill-ins by Keith and Lesh. Garcia leads this one well, and although a slight flub his lyrics are heartfelt and soulful. The leads are punchy and flow well. Achieves everything I look for in a Mississippi Uptown. In addition, one of my favorite shows, from my favorite year of Grateful Dead music.
Ship of Fools
June 23, 1974
Jai-Alai Fronton

This version for me is slightly better than the 5.9.77 version, and for me personally the reason stems from the fact that the 1974 sound in my opinion suited this song's mood better than latter day versions. Being one of my favorite Jerry tunes, this version satisfies my need for a great ship of fools. Whenever I want to listen to one this is the one I choose.
Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
May 17, 1977
Memorial Coliseum

Legendary. That transition is mind-blowing. The fire is a fluid and all together rewarding stream of licks and improvisational greatness.
Jack Straw
Oct. 29, 1977
Evans Field House, Northern Illinois University

The lead-up into "Jack Straw from Witchita" is off the friggen' chain. Garcia goes berserk and the whole band rips it apart.