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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

Scarlet Begonias -> Fire On The Mountain
Nov. 30, 1980
Fox Theatre

In terms solely regarding TRANSITION into FIRE this is a top 3 all-time. The rest is very good.
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
April 14, 1971
Davis Gym, Bucknell University

Great early power version. Garcia especially shines and the origins of what would become the best known transition jam are evident.
Beat it on Down The Line
March 18, 1967
Winterland Arena

Surfer punk indeed!! Jerry does a rolling riff near the end of the tune that is so fluid and perfect it makes you shake your your head yet again at how many different styles this band could master!
The Music Never Stopped
Oct. 1, 1977
Paramount Theatre

After further review: The best.
Bird Song
March 22, 1973
Utica Memorial Auditorium

Shares many of the spacey, Dark-Star-like elements as PNE Coliseum 3 months later (that one is still the gold standard), but this version deserves far more attention/listening and votes. Soaring, dreamlike Birdsong.