Outstanding late-late-era Dead.

NFA as a Jerry tune? Yup, here it is! "But you drive me back -- huh!" Hell yes!

Overlooked GEM! Swift yet deeply felt. Jerry CRUSHES it.

This is indeed a really cool version. For my money, though, it doesn't beat 9/18/87. EDIT: Just one day later, I'm not so sure! Maybe this IS the one...

This version rules.

I am currently engaged in the quixotic task of compiling a collection of the "definitive" versions of all GD tunes -- i.e., for each song, I *have* to choose one and only one version. Ultimately, it usually comes down not just to apples vs. apples, but also apples vs. oranges vs... I dunno, kiwi? This is the version that made the cut. The only other serious contender, IMO, is 10/21/78. That version is scorching. We definitely have an apples vs. oranges thing going here.

I am currently engaged in the quixotic task of compiling a collection of the "definitive" versions of all GD tunes -- i.e., for each song, I *have* to choose one and only one version. Ultimately, it usually comes down not just to apples vs. apples, but also apples vs. oranges vs... I dunno, kiwi? This is the version that made the cut. Obviously, then, I'm an all-inclusive lover of the Dead: I find things to enjoy and appreciate in shows from every year. Still, I struggled with this one. First, apples vs. apples: I *used* to prefer 10/9/89 to this version. I like the quicker tempo; I think it has some better vocal moments, and though the guitar solo on 7/7 is better, 10/9 has some superior work (e.g., Jerry's little line leading from the end of the second bridge to the final chorus). Even so, 7/7 wins out overall. As for apples vs. oranges: I initially picked 5/19/77 as my 'definitive' version. In this case, I prefer the emotive vocals of '89 over the overall tightness of '77. For me, this is a tune that needs to SING, with passion -- and for my money, Jerry did all of his very best singing post-coma. (Though, needless to say, he also did all of his very worst singing post-coma...)

The first time I heard this show, I was duly impressed by the Help > Slip > Frank, but it was this Ramble on Rose that got me sitting up straighter, thinking this might end up being one of truly great late-late-era shows. Turned out to be true!