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grendel

Books and Music

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Submissions

130
Wharf Rat
Oct. 7, 1977
University of New Mexico

Most pristine version I've ever heard. So smooth, so clear. Keith leads the way, Jerry brings it home. . Essential for all Wharf Rat fans
18
Aiko Aiko
Aug. 10, 1982
Iowa Fieldhouse - University of Iowa

Another kick-ass version out of Space...not as long&rising a wind-up as the 9-14-82 tripiness), but raucous, fun & full of N'awlins cajun rock!
36
Cold Rain and Snow
Oct. 12, 1983
Madison Square Garden

Powerhouse. Garcia belts out vocals. Hear amazing riff of added notes in the main theme instrumental sections.Drums pound away as well.
7
Brown Eyed Women
Nov. 29, 1979
Cleveland Public Hall

Jerry commits strong vocals to this rendition--he's into it big time...& Brent adds great accompaniment. Very strong Garcia bridge jam as well.
118
Cumberland Blues
April 8, 1972
Wembley Empire Pool

They could actually hit the high notes in '72, and the jams? Goodness gracious--this one just rips a hole in the space/time continuum!

Comments

Box of Rain
Nov. 17, 1972
Century II Convention Hall

May be the best live version of a tune that, frankly, wonderful as it is, was almost never performed well on stage. (The studio version remains the standard.) But they nail all the lyrics here and Jerry has some sweet riffs. Phil still can't sing, though.
Wharf Rat
Oct. 14, 1977
Hofheinz Pavilion

This month and year was phenomenal for the Rat.
Uncle John's Band
Nov. 17, 1972
Century II Convention Hall

Since getting DaP11 I've been digging this version big time, and it gets better and better after each spin. It's played at a jaunty, peppy pace--a little moreso than most versions--and is really tight. The vocals are spot-on and the jam section before the final reprise is full of swagger and hot jammy goodness. Deserves to climb the ladder here!
Playin' In The Band
Sept. 21, 1972
The Spectrum

New appreciation for this one after recent multiple listenings. So many great versions from this year, but this one gets my upvote for Keith's contributions in the more mellow and thoughtful passages. This whole show is spectacular.
Eyes Of The World
Nov. 4, 1977
Cotterell Gym - Colgate University

Needs more bump-up. Jerry plays at ludicrous speed and yet it doesn't sound at all sloppy. A unique version for '77 and one that deserves to be in at least double digits on the big board.