headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

please login or register.

parrott56

millennial head

+4803


Submissions

15
Dark Star
April 17, 1969
Washington U.

Worthy, discursive version from an amazing month.
18
Mississippi Halfstep Uptown Toodeloo
July 12, 1989
RFK Stadium

Jerry just attacks this one (vocally too) right from the outset. I love summer '89.
5
Pretty Peggy O
Dec. 30, 1977
Winterland Arena

Lively version, practically rollicking!
5
Row Jimmy
Dec. 30, 1977
Winterland Arena

As focused and energetic as the rest of the show, Jerry plays with the phrasing of his solos without missing a beat.
1
Looks Like Rain
Dec. 30, 1977
Winterland Arena

Another noteworthy '77 version. Listen for Jerry's melodic lines over Bob and Donna's vocal coda.

Comments

China Doll
Oct. 6, 1984
Richmond Coliseum

Several spine-tingling moments in the extended jam. These ’83-’84 China Dolls are in a class of their own.
Ramble On Rose
Aug. 5, 1974
Philadelphia Civic Arena

The quintessential ’74 version? Jerry simply cuts up the instrumental break. Simultaneously jagged and deeply groovy.
Playin' In The Band
Oct. 8, 1983
Richmond Coliseum

If I could only listen to Playin’ from one post-retirement year, it’d probably be 1983. This is a great example of why. Absolutely deranged. I can only imagine what would have happened if they’d let this one go on longer and melt down completely.
Lost Sailor -> Saint of Circumstance
Sept. 3, 1980
Civic Center

I find this one very convincing all the way through. The jam after is icing on the cake.
Friend of the Devil
June 24, 1976
Tower Theatre

June ’76 is unquestionably the best month for FOTD. Jerry’s solo here is a little less exciting than in some others, but everything is so well-played — it’s an easy upvote. Frankly, this one’s a Godchaux powerhouse, between Keith’s assured, lilting accompaniment and Donna’s career-best ’76 harmonizing.