Playin' In The Band
Feb. 15, 1973
Dane County Coliseum
All versions performed in February of ‘73 are superlative, but this one is truly unique. Spanning only 15 minutes, this “Playin’” is kept on a shorter leash for the era, but not a note is wasted. It’s reminiscent of the more energetic, compact versions offered during the European tour the previous year, but it’s infused with more measured and thoughtful directions. Jerry seems to place his notes and voiced phrases with careful lyrical expression. At the 2:55 mark, he employs his familiar “underwater” tone, exploring various peaks and valleys before arriving at a segment described by a reviewer as a “wonderful, spooky jam.” Commencing at 7:10, Jerry plays a repeating lick for 20 seconds before the pseudo theme dissolves into an impressionistic jazz wash with Keith and Billy banging, and Phil deftly milking his bass. At 11:55, the band journeys into an almost quiet, spacey abyss for a moment before Jerry hints the telltale notes to bring them back home… but hold your horses! Jerry then mysteriously drops out for a few seconds, before returning in earnest with a swirling flurry of dreamy, delicate notes that seemingly dance off his fret-board effortlessly.