headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

please login or register.

viewtiful_alan

Houston Head

+1413


Submissions

3
Let It Grow
Oct. 26, 1980
Radio City Music Hall

What this one lacks in deep exploration, it more than makes up for in exceptionally tight playing and strong vocals. A top-shelf performance from all.
2
Mama Tried
June 16, 1990
Shoreline Amphitheatre

Tight version with a spirited solo from Jerry.
1
Johnny B. Goode
April 3, 1989
Civic Arena

Fun MIDI solo from Jerry that's answered by an equally hot keyboard solo from Brent. One of the better 80s versions.
5
When Push Comes to Shove
April 1, 1988
Meadowlands Arena

The band takes their time and digs into this one more than usual. You can tell they're having a lot of fun.
8
Friend of the Devil
July 24, 1987
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Stadium

The only thing more mind-blowing than this version is the fact that no one has nominated it yet.

Comments

China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
May 12, 1974
University of Nevada

China Cat has some interesting Jerry leads, but the band doesn't really hit full power until Rider, which is a really phenomenal version. I'd upvote Rider, but not China Cat.
Dancin' in the Streets
May 4, 1977
The Palladium

This one deserves to be in the top 10.
Wharf Rat
May 3, 1977
The Palladium

Keith plays some beautiful, inventive lines as the song moves into its bridge. While Keith's contributions may be the main reason I upvoted this version, the vocals are also strong.
They Love Each Other
May 4, 1977
The Palladium

Disagree with the characterization by FreedomHaul, this is full-band cohesion at its finest. Everyone is actively creating the space that Garcia then maximizes. Lovely version
Good Lovin'
May 3, 1977
The Palladium

Not quite as rich in content as the Pigpen versions, this rare standalone version has a unique character that makes it worth seeking out.