headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

please login or register.

merryjerry

wacked

+6595


Submissions

7
Wharf Rat
July 21, 1974
Hollywood Bowl

Gorgeous, well-paced high energy version. Playin'>Wharf>Truckin'>NFBM (theme only)>Playin' reprise
18
Playin' In The Band
July 21, 1974
Hollywood Bowl

You'll hear voices and see faces in this abstract assault which showcases exceptional group interplay. Bertrando's AUD is VG+.
18
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
July 21, 1974
Hollywood Bowl

Warning: May cause goosebumps. Bertrando's AUD is VG+.
24
Greatest Story Ever Told
April 2, 1973
Boston Garden

I always thought that Summer '74 was the best period for this tune but this version is sick.
8
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
April 6, 1984
Aladdin Theater

If you want to hear something sweet from 1984, check this out!!!
show more submissions

Comments

China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Feb. 22, 1974
Winterland Arena

While I feel that 'CCS'>'IKYR' could be a scorcher with any vintage of the band, it just might be that 1974 represents the apotheosis of this pairing, as nearly every version is a unique little sonic galaxy, with its own twists and turns and unique ornamentation. Here we have the first version from this year and recording-wise it's very good, with even the crowd well-captured (the SBDs from this Feb. '74 run are airier and, I think, richer than SBD recordings from later in the year, certain technical glitches notwithstanding). Note the interesting back-and-forth leading into the 'Feelin' Groovy' jam.
Dark Star
June 24, 1973
Memorial Coliseum

Welcome aboard, DeadheadDan. You're right, this one deserves more fanfare. The pre-verse portion seems to epitomize the prevailing notion of '73 Dead being jazzy and mellow (although mellow is a relative term). After a nice, gentle but engaging intro, Phil begins to play a Stanley Clarke-like Latin fusion sounding line that the rest of the boys attack like an open buffet. Mandatory listening for fans of the era, for sure.
Eyes Of The World
March 28, 1973
Civic Center

Indeed, the outro portion is where this version really shines.
Jack Straw
April 16, 1978
Huntington Civic Center

In fact, this is my favorite of the era.
Eyes Of The World
April 16, 1978
Huntington Civic Center

Doesn't feature the most eloquent solos (although in his solo after the second verse there is something--maybe just a single well placed note-- that cuts deep) but it's an undeniable mood enhancer. This is a good version for listening to in the car with a cup of your favorite coffee on a bright, Saturday morning.
show more comments
headyversion loves the dead but is in no way affiliated with The Grateful Dead or affiliated enterprises. find out more >:) >:)