Perfect full band gelling in a dramatic end jam portion, leading effortlessly into China > Rider

Why the dead chose to neuter the peak jam inherent in early incarnations of this song is one of the most perplexing mysteries ever. This is crisp tho

This hit me perfectly. Well paced, lyrically nailed the poignancy, peak was driven. Nice late-era Peter

I was surprised to look back and see how relatively short this version was, because it had wonderful pace and the punch was ferocious.

I have a huge heart for 89/90 era Knockin's, most especially for Jerry's perfect, blissful ambient tone. This one slays exactly as it should

Super bouncy, precise version. Crisp

I credit the mere existence of this jam to the Billy the Kid, channeling his inner Art Blakey and refusing to let the end of Truckin' dissolve to natural conclusion. Bill kept the driving the splashy high hats, then Bobby caught wise with a clever rhythmic pattern, then Phil dove in with the foundational low end. To my ears, this is one of the most easily identifiable and exemplary jams that highlight just how much certain Dead jams could be classified as pure free-form jazz. The period before Spanish Jam could have been pouring out of Blue Note, rather than the Philly Spectrum. Bill takes home the MVP on this in a big way, but everyone makes incredible contributions on this all-timer version. Very grateful to finally have a polished SBD in the new Dave's release!

Agree with comments above. The mid/end "jam" is funky, unique, and hints strongly at the impending Samson. Def worth a spin

In a night that is a veritable human highlight reel, this Playin' is a shining example of why this show should be unquestionably in the upper echelon. The initial jam is absolutely hypnotic and entrancing, then Jerry's driven lead is a mature, pointed, and a clear emotional communication. He is on a mission. Purposeful, doesn't devolve into chaos - there is thoughtful intent throughout. Always been a top 3 for me and finally having the joy of hearing on vinyl after a recent buy. This one deserves way, wayyyy (like WAY) more dap

Lengthy (relatively speaking), dreamy jam in the middle. Whole band connecting as a unified voice.