Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
Feb. 5, 1978
Uni Dome, U of Northern Iowa
This doesn't need another comment but it deserves it. I like Cornell but as a whole this piece beats 5/8/77. This is simply a beautiful piece of work. The interlude on Scarlett is the finest. Touching guitar work by Jerry. The transition between songs is long and spacey. I can never stay focused through the whole thing. My mind always drifts to parts unknown. I can't help it.
Fire is strong and long. Not as powerful and relentless as the finish on Cornell, but prettier and the interplay is much stronger. But persistent too. It always feels like an orchestral composition more than an in your face, take no prisoners bombardment. I'm impressed and worn out after Cornell, but I'm satisfied, awe filled and delighted after Cedar Falls. The word beautiful applies to this version, which is not true with Cornell.
This is bliss.