headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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quinn_76

thunder mtn

+1495


Submissions

7
Jack Straw
Oct. 31, 1980
Radio City Music Hall

Opens the first electric set from the last (and best) show from the 8 night run at NYC's Radio City Music Hall. Its nomination is long overdue!
5
Eyes Of The World
Oct. 17, 1978
Winterland Arena

This should be on the map. Follow it to find the treasure!
2
Me and My Uncle
June 8, 1974
Coliseum Stadium

Alert! This one not a throw-away. The best one of '74, no foolin'. Played with a perfect balance of gusto, gumption & grit.
3
Promised Land
March 16, 1973
Nassau Coliseum

A charged version that starts off a triple-thread run for this massive second set.
7
Cassidy
May 10, 1978
Veterans' Memorial Coliseum

This deserves to be on the map!

Comments

The Other One
Sept. 17, 1972
Baltimore Civic Center

I share an enthusiasm for this song and the period as well, although I’ve never placed that much importance on this particular version, especially when considering its length. Make no mistake -- I think it’s a good one (and the show as a whole is very good) -- but like the Dark Star of 5/11/72 or the Playin’ of 5/21/74, its “beast status” is surely marked in part by its length alone. This version is a magnum opus! But does the end justify the means? Does the payoff justify the investment of time? I should say so -- but with reservation -- especially when considering the siblings of the era that I think are more entrancing and exhilarating in far fewer minutes (9/3, 9/9, 9/15, 9/28, 10/19, 10/24, 11/17 come to mind). But that hardly matters, of course, if one loves this version, and has 40 minutes to lend an ear! I’m just saying there are better versions that offer higher dividends for lower investments (read: 9/28 & 11/17). But this is only one head’s opinion, and I love the fact we all can come on here and discuss – with passion – the merits of Grateful Dead music at large. With that, I’m going to brew another cup, and spin a long Other One (how about 11/17/72?) I’ve got forty minutes to spare, and a smile to go with it!
Sugaree
Oct. 9, 1976
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Stadium

It's tough to say, but 6/11, 7/17 & this version all burn nicely before the wildfires of '77. They're all worthy.
Cassidy
Oct. 10, 1976
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum

^Very true. I'm encouraged to see that '76 has seemingly garnered more attention of late, though. Better late than never. I still can't say enough about this show, and the night (day) before. Dick was spot-on releasing both shows in their entirety together.
Cumberland Blues
June 30, 1973
Universal Amphitheatre

Jerry: "Don't panic folks, this is the movies, remember?"
Big River
Oct. 21, 1973
Omaha Civic Auditorium

As the ever trusty Carrion_Crow mentioned, the rapid switch from Big River into the Playin' Reprise is outta sight. The kinda thing that could steal your face if caught off guard!