very well put, kc.  i too heard 'One Short Night' that was accidentally leaked from a daytrotter session - i have found that particular recording to be my favorite versions of the song (really glad I was able to save the file - i listen to it often)  the unique lyrical weight of that song does demand a lot instrumentally/musically and i couldn't agree with you more when you say that "The recent acoustic version reveals the excellent heart of the song still waiting to arrive."