• Post reply
    1,815 replies
    heatherlew
    Default Avatar
    Joined:

    "The Grateful Dead picked up their instruments and hit the first note with perfection. They never missed a note for the next three and one-half hours. People followed the flow of the tunes. Down on the floor in front of the stage was a sea of heads keeping time with the music. No one sat still. No one, except the youngsters behind us sat still. They were still and stunned." - The Power County Press

    And what a stunner it was, that show at the Boise State University Pavilion in Boise, ID on September 2, 1983. Dave's Picks Volume 27 contains every stitch of music from this mid-80s show (our first in this series), one that's as good as any other in Grateful Dead history. When the Dead were on, they were ON! Straight out the gate with a definitive take on the old standard "Wang Dang Doodle," the band swiftly switches back to a setlist of yore, firing off 70s staples like "Jack Straw" and "Brown-Eyed Women" and wrapping things up with a terrific trio of "Big Railroad Blues"/"Looks Like Rain"/"Deal" (don't you let that epic guitar solo go down without you). Primed for the second set, they tackle the complexities of "Help>Slipknot!>Franklin's" with heart and ease. It's clear there will be no stopping their flow - Bobby and Brent hanging in for a fantastic pre-Drums "Jam" and Jerry and Bobby in the zone on a not-to-be-missed melodic "Space." Not a skipper in the whole lot!

    Dave's Picks Volume 27 has been mastered to HDCD specs by Jeffrey Norman and it is limited to 18,000 individually-numbered copies*.

    *Limited to 2 per order. Very limited quantity available.

Comments

sort by
Recent
Recent Oldest A to Z Z to A
Reset
  • #831
    Mind-Left-Body
    Joined:
    I guess it's just not for me
    I keep hearing all the cool kids saying this release sounds great and features the band in top form (with just a few exceptions, such as Black Peter). I'm just not hearing it. I keep putting it back on, thinking maybe I just didn't adjust the equalizer correctly, but it still sounds awful mostly. I hear moments of good playing, but like the one guy said, every time I start grooving to something, some off kilter element yanks me out of it. I understand where you're all coming from. When we really love a version of the band, we listen to it all with passion and I think probably aren't affected by the negative elements. There can't be so many people wrong about how bad they think it is, and conversely, there can't be so many people wrong about how good they think it is. Just always going to be cheers and jeers, that's just the way it is. Get it. That's just the way it is. Love ya'll. Edit - Jason, just saw your data here, going to read it in a few, looks interesting,thanks for taking the time.
  • #832
    Jason Wilder
    Default Avatar
    Joined:
    Yeah, just comparing Dave's vs. Dicks
    There have been a lot of '80's Dead/Brent releases with the Spring '90, Warlocks, '90 TOO, RFK, View From the Vault, etc. In terms of actual releases/shows, the totals (including partials, etc) look like this, and I may be missing some of the partials/splits/multi-year stuff (Garcia Plays Dylan, etc). Generally speaking, there has been a very good job of releasing more from the peak years (IMHO = 70's, '69, '89-'90) while getting something from every year (30 Trips Helped). Did not break down by #shows, includes digital downloads, not included Pacific NW yet. Rank, Year, # Releases, # Discs 1. 1972, 16, 119.25 (peak Dead, justifiably #1, K&D & Pig) A+ 2. 1977, 15, 72.50 (peak late era K&D) A+ 3. 1990, 10.5, 64.50 (peak Brent era) A 4. 1973, 11, 41.0 (PC NW coming) (peak early Keith) A+ 5. 1978, 10, 41.0 (darn good late era K&D) A- 6. 1974, 13, 40 (PC NW coming) (darn good early Keith) A- 7. 1971, 13, 36.12 (darn good year, multiple lineups) A 8. 1969, 9.5, 31.90 (Peak Pig & TC) A+ 9. 1976, 8, 28.0 (improved Donna) A- 10. 1989, 8.5, 27.50 (darn good Brent era) A- ----------------------- 11. 1970, 9.5, 20.83 (the new tunes explode) A ------I would consider this the line for "A" years------ 12. 1980, 8.15, 19.0 B+ 13. 1979, 7, 19.0 B+ ------------------------ 14. 1991, 4, 11.50 15. 1968, 6, 11.30 T16. 1981, 3, 9.0 T16. 1983, 3, 9.0 (This is a C year) T16. 1988, 3, 9.0 19. 1987, 4, 8.5 20. 1982, 3, 8.0 21. 1966, 4.57, 7.50 22. 1985, 3, 7.0 -----mostly C years from here--------- T23. 1992, 2, 6.0 T23. 1993, 2, 6.0 25. 1975, 2.5, 4.5 (B year, just no shows) 26. 1967, 1.5, 3.1 (B year, so few tapes) T27. 1984, 1, 3.0 T27. 1994, 1, 3.0 T27. 1995, 1, 3.0 30. 1986, 1, 2.0 31. 1965, 1, 0 (studio stuff/Birth) (no tapes available). Again, remarkably good distribution overall. Not so much with the Dave's Picks. Agree that 70's is better in a lot of respects (though not as much variance and fewer different songs) and certainly the sound quality is one factor (nothing matches a Betty). However, I have too many sweet sounding 80's boards to buy the idea that there are not many good sounding tapes in the vault to release them. As good as Betty's? No. Still very enjoyable? Yes. For 1967 I buy it, not for 1985 or 1989 or 1980. But I tend to be a show quality over sound quality guy anyway. Lastly, I do have a bit of a beef (small one) with Dave's 80's picks. A summer '89 Box that has no Alpine? Come on. No full 80's acoustic shows (yes, I know Dead Set/Reckoning)? I'll amend my original structure to Dick's Picks parameters. For every series of 6: 1) At least one Pig 2) At least one early Keith ('71-'74) 3) At least one late K&D ('76-'78) 4) At least one Brent/Bruce/Vince 5) At least one Epic/Iconic show (any era) 6) At least one lesser known great show (any era) Converting to Dave's picks parameters, every 3 years (12 releases), that would generate, thru 24 releases: 1) At least 4 Pigs (he does well here) 2) At least 4 early Keith's (he does well here) 3) At least 4 late K&D's (he does well here) 4) At least 4 Brent/Bruce/Vince (not enough but getting better) 5) At least 4 Epic/Iconic shows (he does fine here) 6) At least 4 undiscovered great shows (he does well here) Again, these are small nits to pick. A tad more Brent/later era stuff with a tad better selections from that era. Summer '85. Another fall '89 or '89 pre-midi. '87 when the comeback was in full swing and good vibes were everywhere. '80/'81 acoustic. A piercing Althea. I did not mean to seem too critical, if I came off that way, my apologies. Sorry for length, lazy Sunday.
  • #833
    icecrmcnkd
    Joined:
    Well, that settles it
    Simonrob, Daverock, and the rest of us are catching flights to Vegas...... I love Amsterdam, but I think Vegas flights are cheaper.....and I speak the language......sort of.
  • #834
    simonrob
    Joined:
    Rain.
    The wet stuff is in short supply here in Europe this summer, as I'm sure you have seen on the (real) news. I also suspect that you are more than used to arid conditions there in Vegas.
  • #835
    Vguy72
    Joined:
    Breaking down Boise....
    ....simonrob didn't pull the ripcord. Took the Switzerland route. I would very much like to meet you. Down some Belgian ales, spin some Dead, smoke some lettuce and enjoy the English garden rain.
  • #836
    icecrmcnkd
    Joined:
    For the record
    I think that 5-8-77 sounds awesome. That reverb was on the first cassette I got of the show. Thus, it’s all I know. I also have the matrix and the 5.1 version. I’ll take the Full Norman version.When GSTL was released a few people complained about the reverb, I was just referencing those posts. Overall, I think the release was pretty well received..... My refusal to compare DaP27 to 5-8-77 is because 1983 is not 1977. They can’t be compared, as described extensively in posts below. During past 80’s releases as people complained about the quality other people posted theories along the lines of: There are probably a limited number of releasable non-multitrack 80’s recordings. Eventually all the releasable 60/70’s shows will be released, and then that well will dry up. By that point a lot of the people who saw shows in the 60/70’s might be deceased or in ill health and won’t be making purchases. But, people who saw shows in the 80/90’s will still be making purchases and will keep buying the 80/90’s releases. Thus, the revenue stream continues, as long as some good stuff is held back now and released later. That’s my summary of what I remember people posting in the past. Doesn’t mean that it’s the policy of Dave/Rhino. And, keep in mind that there should be DAT masters of 90’s shows. Hopefully there’s some with good mixes on them. We are due for a Bruce release.....
  • #837
    simonrob
    Joined:
    Got it, heard it...
    My copy has finally made it across the pond and I have now listened to it in its entirety, not without some trepidation bearing in mind some of the comments posted here. My personal observations, for what they're worth: Those 80's afficionados who claim this is a great show are exaggerating and those who claim that the mix or the sound quality or the performance itself are appalling are also exaggerating. The performance is mostly fine. I did not notice much that some songs were played at breakneck speed and I did not notice too many momentary disasters along the way. I did notice that Jerry's voice was shot on a couple of songs, notably Black Peter. Also the patch in Eyes brings one down to earth with a jarring thump. As for the sound quality, it is pretty good for a cassette master, certainly better than some of the earlier releases that were recorded on cassette. No real complaints there. The Mix? It was mixed for the PA in the hall, not for my living room so it is not ideal, but it is eminently listenable. The vocals are a bit too prominent but not as much as some on here have suggested. For the rest, the balance of the instruments was not perfect, but not so bad that people were missing entirely. The were a couple of places where the music got really intense and the mix made it sound somewhat confused. Again this was not as bad as many had stated. The overall sound level did vary somewhat but not so much that I had to adjust the level on my pre-amp. I was listening to this on my good quality stereo in my living room (which lacks any form of tone controls or equalization). I just insert the CD and hit play. My only point of reference is "Is what I'm hearing acceptable". One cannot expect true high fidelity from these releases. In this case, I found it perfectly acceptable. There have been better performances and better sounding releases, but there have also been worse. We were spared the Fisher-Price piano sounds from Brent, and his cringe-inducing songs. I am also not a fan of his vocals which also did not intrude here. Before I get called out as a Brent hater, I should say that I found his keyboard sound here just fine and I have always enjoyed his B3 playing (as long as it is not overbearing). This will not be sold instantly orgo on a shelf never to be listened to again. Pretty good for an early - mid '80s performance.
  • #838
    Vguy72
    Joined:
    I'm just grateful.....
    ....that these releases are coming out regularly. If they weren't, what would we all have to debate about?
  • #839
    Oroborous
    Joined:
    RE: Alvarhanso
    Right on my brother, agree with all you said. And of course people can believe what they want for good or for ill. It’s just been frustrating when other folks make these grand statements and comparisons (like 5/8/77 is a 5 outta 10), or when they have no point of reference. e.g., I think Vguy or kid said something like Cornell compared to other Beatty’s “has to much reverb for my taste” To me that’s a great example of a critique based on proper point of reference as well as his personal taste etc But your also right to suggest that apples to oranges can be compared also. A release is a release and therefore fair game....my caveat is that hopefully the critic has at least an idea of what their comparing when speaking of technical matters. Just like a experienced musician would be expected to have a better point of reference when critiquing performance..... But then the bottom line perhaps is Vguy’s example. He just pops it in and likes it or not, well, Vguy perhaps not a good example as that brother seems to dig it all. ; ) Personally, I go both ways (pun intended! for vguys comedic entertainment) I like pretty much every release, but I can certainly critique or find idiosyncrasies in any release, even good ol Cornell! But for me, I’ll take most any official release. Like someone here said, if all your looking for is the warts, well that’s all your going to see..... Finally, like you said, this isn’t aimed at you, hopefully some of us can provide interesting insight for others not as fanatical as us lol Thanks for your great posts! PS; didn’t get on the Dave train until a couple years ago, so I’d gladly take any releases from you, for a reasonable price, were you so inclined to part with any.....please PM me if your interested, looking for ....in order of preference... DAVES PICKS - #9 5/14/74 - #6 12/20/69 with bonus disc - #19 1/23/70 - #5 11/73 - #10 12/11&12/69 with bonus disc - #2 7/31/74 - #17 7/19/74
  • #840
    dilbert
    Joined:
    So I listened again to this
    So I listened again to this release and 5/8/77, and I stand by opinion that the audio is better on this release; the SBR recording places you front row center, and the volume is just exactly perfect. The aud patches are also cool, because it gives you the impression of being at the show. The 5/8/77 audio is cavernous, It places you last row upper deck, and the audio is low, you have to turn the volume up loud to hear the band.I prefer the sound of this release to the 5/8/77 mix. Performance wise - I prefer the versions of TLEO, Mama Tried, Big River, Brown Eyed Women, New Minglewood Blues and Deal on this release over 5/8/77. This is a fantastic release and I welcome more like this. And as the wise sage Master Shake once said: https://i.imgflip.com/sgkf3.jpg
user picture
Default Avatar

Member for

7 years 11 months
Submitted by heatherlew on
Forums
Dead Store Products

"The Grateful Dead picked up their instruments and hit the first note with perfection. They never missed a note for the next three and one-half hours. People followed the flow of the tunes. Down on the floor in front of the stage was a sea of heads keeping time with the music. No one sat still. No one, except the youngsters behind us sat still. They were still and stunned." - The Power County Press

And what a stunner it was, that show at the Boise State University Pavilion in Boise, ID on September 2, 1983. Dave's Picks Volume 27 contains every stitch of music from this mid-80s show (our first in this series), one that's as good as any other in Grateful Dead history. When the Dead were on, they were ON! Straight out the gate with a definitive take on the old standard "Wang Dang Doodle," the band swiftly switches back to a setlist of yore, firing off 70s staples like "Jack Straw" and "Brown-Eyed Women" and wrapping things up with a terrific trio of "Big Railroad Blues"/"Looks Like Rain"/"Deal" (don't you let that epic guitar solo go down without you). Primed for the second set, they tackle the complexities of "Help>Slipknot!>Franklin's" with heart and ease. It's clear there will be no stopping their flow - Bobby and Brent hanging in for a fantastic pre-Drums "Jam" and Jerry and Bobby in the zone on a not-to-be-missed melodic "Space." Not a skipper in the whole lot!

Dave's Picks Volume 27 has been mastered to HDCD specs by Jeffrey Norman and it is limited to 18,000 individually-numbered copies*.

*Limited to 2 per order. Very limited quantity available.

user picture

Member for

14 years 8 months

Submitted by stoltzfus on Sat, 09/01/2018 - 20:39

Permalink

an oddball show worth a listen
user picture

Member for

10 years

Submitted by daverock on Sun, 09/02/2018 - 11:45

Permalink

I've been inspired to listen to some early Dark Stars after reading the posts on here, and last night I come up against the Mickey and The Hartbeats show from 10/30/68. And very strange it is, too. As far as I can make out, this band, on this night, started out as a trio consisting of Jerry, Phil and Mickey. It opens with a 17 minute + Star that is basically a musical conversation between Jerry and Phil. Mickey contributes very little-very subdued. In fact the whole track is a bit-but its fascinating hearing Jerry and Phil try out different ideas. Very slow and ruminative. Well worth hearing. I notice they end the show with a Dark Star jam as well-although that one seems to have a cast of 1000s up and jamming-which doesn't look very appetizing-but who knows?
user picture

Member for

14 years 11 months

Submitted by David Duryea on Sun, 09/02/2018 - 14:33

Permalink

https://themidnightcafe.org/2017/04/21/lossless-bootleg-bonanza-gratefu… Grateful Dead 68-09-02 Betty Nelson’s Organic Rasberry Farm Sultan, WA Download: FLAC/MP3 This is flac encoded & tagged version of shnid: 22095 Recording Info: SBD -> Master Reel (Three half-inch four track reels, recorded on Ampex 440) -> Dat (Tascam DA30/44.1k) Transfer Info: Master Dat (Sony R500) -> SEK’D Prodif Plus -> Samplitude v7.02 Professional -> Cool Edit Pro v2.0 -> SHN (1 Disc Audio / 1 Disc SHN) Transfered and Edited By Charlie Miller charliemiller87@earthlink.net 2/5/04 Notes: Track 1 = Audience Tracks 2 and 3 = stereo mix Track 4 = nothing The Master Dat had different mixes on it. This is the one I liked the best. Setlist: d1t01 – Introduction d1t02 – Dark Star -> d1t03 – Saint Stephen -> d1t04 – The Eleven -> d1t05 – Death Don’t Have No Mercy (cut) d1t06 – Cryptical Envelopment -> d1t07 – Drums -> d1t08 – The Other One -> d1t09 – Cryptical Envelopment d1t10 – Alligator -> d1t11 – Caution (Do Not Stop On Tracks) -> d1t12 – Feedback d1t13 – Stage Announcements alt1 – Introduction -> Dark Star -> Saint Stephen (cut) alt2 – (cut) Dark Star -> Saint Stephen -> The Eleven
user picture

Member for

17 years 2 months

Submitted by Vguy72 on Sun, 09/02/2018 - 15:10

Permalink

....I just mentioned appreciation. Early Dark Stars are a gift. One could track it's progression on a nightly basis. The hi temp here today is 95. My grill has been working non stop for 48 hrs. And that's a good thing.
user picture

Member for

17 years 2 months

Submitted by Vguy72 on Sun, 09/02/2018 - 16:26

Permalink

....Normanize this beast. It deserves it. I know the PTB are reading. Just do it.
user picture

Member for

16 years 11 months

Submitted by direwulf on Sat, 09/08/2018 - 07:28

Permalink

...floor creaks, scurrying feet, nightwatchman's asleep.
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Sat, 09/08/2018 - 09:52

Permalink

He's missing his rings, four bucks in change.. and I don't think he's asleep.. more like cold and unresponsive. I'm calling the cops.
user picture

Member for

16 years

Submitted by Born Cross Eye… on Sun, 09/09/2018 - 08:40

Permalink

After about 12 listenings to this show, I still like it very much. When I first heard the announcement that this show was going to be DaP 27, sure I'll give it a try, as I do like the early to mid-Eighties. If you recall, I called myself a member of the 70's mafia - but that's another story altogether.Not exactly perfect, but it fits the bill for a 1983 show. have to thank SkullTrip for this one. Thank you, Thank you very much!
user picture

Member for

13 years 10 months

Submitted by nitecat on Sun, 09/09/2018 - 16:33

Permalink

I think many here would be interested in this new book soon to be published. Full disclosure: Jarid, the author, is a good buddy. Hello Scott, I am excited to announce the launch of the Kickstarter campaign for THIS OLD BUILDING: The Closing of Winterland, a photo documentary book of my rare images punctuated with tails of adventure from those who experienced this amazing event. This limited edition 8.5x11, hardbound, B&W art book celebrates the final show at Bill Graham's legendary music venue in San Francisco on New Year's Eve 1978 with the Grateful Dead, the Blues Brothers, the New Riders of the Purple Sage and thousands of fellow Deadheads. I invite you to reserve your copy for a pledge of $35. Throw down a bit more for additional rewards like gift giver packages or your choice of an enlargement from the book. You'll find all the pledge details on my Kickstarter page where you can view my campaign video, see photos, and hear the story of how this book came to fruition. With the 40th Anniversary of that final night nearly upon us, THIS OLD BUILDING: The Closing of Winterland will bring forth deep recollections and reignite your excitement for this historic event. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/433001477/this-old-building-the-clo... Thank you and stay in touch. Cheers- Jarid
user picture

Member for

9 years 3 months

Submitted by Kayak Guy on Tue, 09/11/2018 - 12:29

Permalink

6/8/69 2nd GD set of the night after the middle band and the koolaid seems to have been a bit strong that night. the reviews are interesting to say the least. https://archive.org/details/gd1969-06-08.123986.sbd.miller.flac16/gd69-… this one is all about the banter between songs as they try to get their acts together while ??? plays the 3rd set.
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Tue, 09/11/2018 - 18:58

Permalink

Been there.. Side 4 of ElectricladyLand. I had to up and leave until sanity returned (and the sun came up).
user picture
Default Avatar

Member for

12 years 9 months

Submitted by RV3 on Wed, 09/12/2018 - 09:56

Permalink

Well, we know we have already gotten the following releases in 2018: 1) Daves Picks 2018 so far - 1977, 1971, 1983(miracle that we got a non-1970s release) 2) 6 FULL shows from 1973-1974 (pacific box) 3) 1968 - anthem reissue plus live show 4) 3 singles package releases 1970-1971 5) The November 2017 Dave Picks release was from 1972 With that said, it seems obvious that Dave's Picks #28 should still be from years 1979-1995...will it be, WHO KNOWS?!? Dave's goto year to keep him in his comfort zone of 1971-1978 should be a release from 1976, BUT I'm guessing for the second release in a row he will move out of his comfort zone, and give us a release from 1979-1982....my guess is a Fall 1979 release, with the long shot being a 1991 show.
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Thu, 09/13/2018 - 20:38

Permalink

This one's wide open. ..but I enjoy the enthusiasm and speculation. So the drum roll of 28 begins. I won't even try to guess and I don't think Dave is talking.
user picture

Member for

13 years 10 months

Submitted by ty627 on Fri, 09/14/2018 - 18:42

Permalink

I kind of settled on 1976 as well only because of what has recently been released. I also think 1991 will see the light of day at some point. I listened to the Soldier Field show from 91 during my walk last night and it is a good one. I have been really happy with all three picks this year and feel like I am playing with house money at this point. I feel so fortunate to be able to get a new show every 3 months and already told my wife that I will be subscribing again. She was cool about it she knows how happy it makes me. Anyways my guess for 28 - 4-23-69 the Ark Boston Mass. it would make a great box for sure but I am guessing they come out one at a time. Something from 69 would really make this a banner year for the Dave’s Picks series. Just my opinion.
user picture

Member for

13 years 10 months

Submitted by ty627 on Fri, 09/14/2018 - 18:43

Permalink

I kind of settled on 1976 as well only because of what has recently been released. I also think 1991 will see the light of day at some point. I listened to the Soldier Field show from 91 during my walk last night and it is a good one. I have been really happy with all three picks this year and feel like I am playing with house money at this point. I feel so fortunate to be able to get a new show every 3 months and already told my wife that I will be subscribing again. She was cool about it she knows how happy it makes me. Anyways my guess for 28 - 4-23-69 the Ark Boston Mass. it would make a great box for sure but I am guessing they come out one at a time. Something from 69 would really make this a banner year for the Dave’s Picks series. Just my opinion.
user picture

Member for

16 years 8 months

Submitted by ds smith on Tue, 09/18/2018 - 15:17

Permalink

Give us a prime Brent or Hornsby/Vince show! Where is Roanoke 87? Any non released 88-90 Brent shows would be welcomed!
user picture

Member for

17 years 3 months

Submitted by rrussell8 on Tue, 09/18/2018 - 21:09

Permalink

Owsley distributed a powerful concoction, resulting in Garcia sitting out the second set, with Elvin Bishop and Wayne Ceballos standing in. Garcia returns for The Other One suite. source: On This Date in Deadhead History on The WELL.
user picture

Member for

13 years 10 months

Submitted by ty627 on Fri, 09/21/2018 - 16:05

Permalink

How does everyone feel about this year’s picks? I am happy. I probably will only go back to the 71 show regularly. I did like the Boise show but don’t think I will listen to it very often. I don’t think I have listened to the 77 show other than the half step and jack straw since my first listen. Will I subscribe again? You bet! 100 dollars for 4 shows is an incredable deal. Can’t wait to hear what everybody thinks 28 will be. Still sticking with the Ark last night of the run.
user picture

Member for

9 years 3 months

Submitted by Kayak Guy on Fri, 09/21/2018 - 19:28

Permalink

hopefully the 3 April 69 Ark shows will be a Plangent processed box, throw in the NYE 69 run at the Boston Tea Party, same building different name, they are too good for a Dave's Pick. i'd like to say public THANKS to Mike Wren and the server teams (Tol) at etree that seems to be offline after 20 years. the database seems to no longer be usable in a "cloud" based infrastructure and after about a month of attempts at upgrading it is now offline. after the original tape tracking site went online about 1997 called Phishhook, Etree became the go to place for archivist and tapers to standardize what circulates on the internet today and was a key requirement of new additions to Archive.org. many trading sites and later BT sites used etree as the central repository of the documentation to verify if that CM fileset you downloaded is the same as CM seeded. without etree to gather and document the filesets, there would be no Archive.org LMA. for a nice history of Etree. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etree
user picture
Default Avatar

Member for

11 years

Submitted by Mr. Jack Straw on Sat, 09/22/2018 - 10:00

Permalink

The timeline for any pick is 1968-1991. Given that the last pick was from the 1980s, we can assume it won't be from that decade. In fact, I'd bet that we can exclude 1979 and pre-Bruce 1990, as they've never done two Brent picks in a row since DP5 and DP6. We've already had a 1971, 1973, 1974, and a 1977 this year. This leaves: 1968-1970, 1972, 1976, 1978, 1990-1991. 1978 is probable the most well-mined year, with very few of the Top Shows from that era left to be released. 1972 has plenty of top shows left, but it was only one year ago that we got a 1972. But they've been known to go back to 1972 pretty quickly (see DaP 11 and then DaP 14 shortly after). 7/18, 7/26, 8/21, 8/24, 10/18, and 10/28, 11/19, 12/31 are all worthy,. We're really overdue for a 1969, I'm just not sure if the impeding Aoxomoxoa reissue takes something off the table. 2/15, 4/5, 4/21-23, 11/2 and 11/7 have to come out eventually. There's nothing in the Vault after June 1970, but there's plenty of good stuff from January/Feb left. I think they'll probably do some the June Fillmore shows eventually too. 1976 is the safe choice, especially with the returned Betty boards. I think the Boston shows will eventually be a box. 6/29/76 does have to come out eventually, and I don't think any of the surrounding shows are box worthy, so this would be a prime choice. 7/18/76 is another option.
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Sat, 09/22/2018 - 16:11

Permalink

I gave up guessing a long time ago.. Mr. Jack Straw lays out a straightforward and pragmatic assessment. I can't help but agree. I wouldn't be surprised if it was Fall of 72. Spring of 91 has been overlooked too. Some of the shows are quite good and they seemed to be decently recorded for the most part. Old Jer's voice is perhaps the weakest link in some of the strong shows from that period. I'm sure we will get some gems mixed in with the last release of this season and the four to some in 2019. Wow.. it's almost 2020, where does the time go.
user picture
Default Avatar

Member for

12 years

Submitted by SAMTHARDMAN on Sun, 09/23/2018 - 09:43

Permalink

The Grateful Dead and friends are the epitome of the gift that keeps on giving. The full shows complimenting the 50th anniversary releases of the Grateful Dead album and Anthem were from 66' and 67' respectively, so thinking a 68' show will compliment the 50th anniversary release of Aoxomoxoa. Would love to see 69' Arc or Boston Tea released. Are either stand of shows in the vault? If so, depending on if and how many, would probably be a box release? Wonder if the 69' Mcfarlin show is in the vault? That would make a doozy of a show to compliment workingman or American Beauty! The Betty Boards have rendered a treasure trove of goodies. A good number of the reportedly, 50 shows returned, have been released. We still await the 71' capitol run. (A box for 2019!!!!) and 4/5-4/8 71'. (Awesome future Dave's!). There is 5/26/73 Kezar and 2/26/77 swing. Either or both could be future Dave's or maybe even mass production stand alone's (such as 8/27/72) Speaking of stand alone's, is 6/10/73 RFK in the vault? The 76' Boston and Beacon shows have returned. Could be a future box release? Of course, I am assuming all of Betty's returned reels are in "acceptable' release condition. Also, what still remains from the 69' and 70' returned stash? If I had one show to ever see the light of day, it would be 9/20/70. Based on my research, most of the September 70' Filmore run is not in the vault (as apparently much else from the second half of 70'), but 9/20/70 never seems to say missing reels (like the previous nights Filmore shows) Probably wishful thinking, but I can dream. Love to hear from people more knowledgable on the topic than me on my thoughts. Sam T
user picture

Member for

17 years 3 months

Submitted by wilfredtjones on Sun, 09/23/2018 - 18:00

Permalink

Any chance the returned reels would include the missing tape from 10-15-76? All I've heard from the end of that show is from an AUD source. It would be great if they found tapes from 2-27-77 or 6-4-77, too but chances are fewer that will happen. How about 2-6-79 Tulsa just for curiosity's sake, or more of Carbondale '79 (again, just for curiosity's sake). Speaking of '76, DP 33 might just be the most underrated from that series. Two complete shows in 1 release. That used to be nice and would happen more often: DP 20, 25, 29...
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Mon, 09/24/2018 - 11:08

Permalink

I am going with either 79, 80 or 91 as DaP 28 and either fall '72 or fall '71 as DaP 20 to kick off next year's subscription effort. Note: This guess is knowingly incorrect. I have the absolute worst track record at dead.net for sniffing out the next release.
user picture

Member for

9 years 6 months

Submitted by novembereleven on Mon, 09/24/2018 - 21:07

Permalink

Unfortunately the only ‘76 show I’d be really jazzed about is the 7-18-76. But that isn’t likely to happen as it is a multitrack recording that was used on the King Biscuit Flower Hour. So Dave said when the 7-17-76 show was released, that this excludes it from his show options. Such an epic show, certainly in my all time Top 20, in a year that rarely excites me too much.
user picture

Member for

17 years 3 months

Submitted by outpost on Tue, 09/25/2018 - 12:42

Permalink

The Ark and Tea Party shows would make a fantastic box, to compliment the Fillmore Box. Much too good to be diluted as a DaP. Come on ... be bold !
user picture
Default Avatar

Member for

9 years 2 months

Submitted by Jason K on Tue, 09/25/2018 - 15:56

Permalink

Please help me understand how recordings from 1969 sound clear and pristine while recordings from the early 80's, such as DP27, sound horrible. Very disappointed in DP27. Thanks.
user picture

Member for

16 years

Submitted by Born Cross Eye… on Tue, 09/25/2018 - 17:34

Permalink

My guess for DaP28: 6/22/76 Tower Theatre Upper Darby, PA (near Philly)Been there, done that, its one of my favorites.
user picture

Member for

9 years 3 months

Submitted by Kayak Guy on Wed, 09/26/2018 - 04:24

Permalink

based on the other 2018 choices there is one noticeable absence in the set lists, Dark Star.to close out the year and boost interest in next year there should be a Dark Star on what ever they announce. either a Pigpen or Hornsby era one would be nice. given my lack of enthusiasm for non Plangent processed reels, i would hope for a cassette only Bear tape or one of the DATs from the 1991 tour. like this anniversary show from 27 years ago today. Boston Garden on 1991-09-26 https://archive.org/details/gd1991-09-26.sbd.miller.95534.sbeok.flac16 i wish they would stop wasting the recently returned reels on non Plangent processed releases like this series.
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Wed, 09/26/2018 - 07:06

Permalink

I like the way some of those DATs sound. I wonder why we have seen relatively few shows released from this period. I like the sound quality of the Cal Expo and Shorelines shows from the Spring of '91. Cal expo is sans Hornsby though.. The Boston shows are really good, I am partial to 5/10/91 too but keep in mind I am a big Desolation Row fiend.. which I realize is not everyone's cup of tea. Still.. good point on 1991, we really should have seen a few more shows released from this period, some are quite good.
user picture

Member for

9 years 3 months

Submitted by Kayak Guy on Wed, 09/26/2018 - 07:50

Permalink

it' s only really a 2 disker, but with a little related filler to add the Playin they started the night before and then teased the Dark Star right before the Drums, it makes a nice 3 disk set. April 1, 1991 Greensboro Coliseum - Greensboro, NC SBD -> PCM Master CD1 Set 1: d1t01 - Jack Straw d1t02 - Peggy-O d1t03 - It's All Over Now d1t04 - Candyman d1t05 - Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues d1t06 - Picasso Moon d1t07 - Bird Song CD2 Set 2: d1t08 - China Cat Sunflower -> d1t09 - I Know You Rider d2t01 - Looks Like Rain disk 2 filler to finish off 3/31/91 2nd set from Dick's Pick 17 3. Playin' In The Band > (15:09) 4. Drums > (4:37) 1. Space > (15:20) small splice at 1:46 2. The Wheel > (5:41) 3. Around & Around > (7:51) 4. Johnny B. Goode (5:13) 5. Knockin' On Heaven's Door (8:40) CD3 d2t02 - Dark Star -> d2t03 - Drums -> d2t04 - Space -> d2t05 - Dark Star -> d2t06 - Playing reprise -> d2t07 - Black Peter -> d2t08 - Turn On Your Lovelight d2t09 - It's All Over Now, Baby Blue
user picture

Member for

17 years 3 months

Submitted by Oroborous on Wed, 09/26/2018 - 09:56

Permalink

I am not a robot....or am I??.....ancient alien theorists say YES!! Recent episode speculates that due to new DNA info found theorist believe we were injected long ago by aliens so that basically we’ve become organic robots! Woooooo- spooky lol DROPOUTS remeber folks, any recording is susceptible to dropouts anytime a musician adjusts their volume, especially if the person responsible for the recording is looking after other responsibilities etc. This could be especially true with WOS shows as there was no house mix at all, everything was controlled on stage by the band.....i.e., if say Jerry felt he was too loud and turned down, and no one adjusted tape levels accordingly, he would sound too low on the tape.... AUDS Also, as some have mentioned, drums and vocals (or other “acoustic”) instruments are often mixed louder than guitars that are often already significantly amplified. This is why as KG and others have suggested that matrix or very good AUD recordings can sound much more lifelike or “real” than soundboards..... PREDICTIONS 28: will repeat my predictions from months ago.... 28- will be something from 69-71, but not something that might end up as full treatment box shows...this era is definetly due, and most people like this era so it plays to the masses to end the year/subscription on a high note.... 29- will be 76. This year is also overdue, but it’s perhaps not as popular for some folks. Mellow dead for the winter doldrums.. Of course these too could get flipped so the 69-71 would be the new year/script carrot...in fact I think that makes more sense; 76 for 28 and a 69-71 for 29. 76 might be too divisive for some? 30: 79 is also overdue and gets enough mention here that the mob would not lynch ole Dave and CO. Don’t know the catalog well enough to pick informatively, but personally I think some combination of 1/10/79 and 1/20/79 would make a great spring/bonus release. Last Steve and Dark Stars for a while, as well as some other great nuggets. 1/20 has no Donna so has that historic/different variable. 31: some 91 or other post Brent 90s. (Since there has been a lot of 90 already).Another era that is due and has some great shows! Wild card could be some 89 that’s not multi-box worthy? Of course more 72 is always in play.... 32: will return to one of the BIG? Years or perhaps 69-71 or 91 if not covered earlier as these are certainly due. Wild cards any of the above except 79. I don’t think they would use something possibly divisive for the end of the year. Time will tell and as ole Jim says “I reserve the right to be comepletly wrong” ; )) 77; I know there is a rabid vocal majority that can’t get enough, but for THE REST OF US enough for a while...No offense meant to anyone or their personal tastes, but imho there are a significant number of us that would like to gather a well rounded collection of good shows, that sound decent. They all don’t have to be top shelf (where mama hides the cookies!) multi-trac pristine....MANY of us love ALL years worts and all. Just throwing it out there, no need to tell me how wrong I am and other negative condescension. We’ve all heard it enough ad nauseam! Like going in about fourwindsblow’s mere suggestion of a summer 85 box. To some, we like the dangerous, dirty dead. No one seems to complain about 60s stuff where they sometimes go for it but miss etc. and there are plenty of bad vocals (from all eras!) Some us of feel 85 was similar, that does not make us WRONG, just different than YOU! And like Jim said, Jerry’s voice gained a deep character that a 20 something doesn’t necessarily have. Sometimes it was painful, but some would say something’s actually sounded deeper and more emotional as his voice aged. This is why ALL eras are worth checking out!! You can just listen to something else if you don’t like certain eras. You don’t have to be negative and cut others down. Some asked how we felt about this years releases....I think they were all at least good. Know the 77 is not some folks top pick, but for a 77 I really liked that show. Personally liked the 71s better than last years (a little to white bread). I liked the 83 worts and all because it was something different and was from the year I was finally able to do more than just one off local type shows. Time will tell about 28 but I’m sure as usual Dave will not let us down. I agree though with KG that there should be different tiers or what not for releases. I.e., - Super premium Betty Boards etc, that they could charge more for to cover extra expenses and help fund other, less exconomicalky viable releases like - Doctored matrix and/or AUDs from 80s/90s. Low budget packaging/costs sort of like Dicks or Road trips, or even more so. Stuff that will never be used for Boxes etc. just spit em out so those that want can get something more than the same old stuff...Could do more frequently due to less costs/production etc - Continue Dave’s with his niche.. - Boxes: of course keep the big beautiful stuff coming aka PNW, E72, 69, 90, 89 etc. Don’t see why they couldn’t do this? Obviously there is currently demand, and as I’ve said before, they could choose/schedule run numbers AFTER they receive pre-order funds to maintain costs. You get 10,000 pre orders run that plus a few for late comers. Everybody wins....Big boxes and/or premium releases could still be “numbered”. That is All! Have a Grateful Day!
user picture

Member for

6 years 8 months

Submitted by SkullTrip on Wed, 09/26/2018 - 16:14

Permalink

'77 has always been a sweet spot for me, all the way back to my tape trading days. In fact, 2/26/77 was the tape that motivated me to see my first live show in '83 (4/26/83, to be exact). So I'll never turn away from any official '77 release, or any release between '68 and '78 for that matter. That being said, I do dip into all eras of the Dead, depending on my mood, and agree that a bit more variety in the releases wouldn't hurt. Especially since there's a certain satisfaction in owning official copies of shows you've attended.
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Fri, 09/28/2018 - 19:40

Permalink

Hey Skulltrip.. I have to ask. After having/listening to 2/26/77 and then seeing 4/26/83 as your first show, were you impressed, disappointed, had a great time, thought the show was so/so? Feel free to ignore the question altogether and use your own words, but the contrast between an early tape (one of the greats) and your first show (which I am familiar with) is stunning. I went to my first show in 82 with little knowledge or expectations and walked away mind = blown. ..but comparing your first show to 2/26/77 must have been a mindf**k of sorts. Anyway.. your post made me curious, so I had to ask.
user picture

Member for

6 years 8 months

Submitted by SkullTrip on Sat, 09/29/2018 - 02:25

Permalink

Hey, Jim — great question. I guess my answer is somewhat mixed. Though I had a blast at the show, and kept seeing the Dead live until 10/19/94, I always felt like I was seeing a compromised version of the band. To my ear, the 68 to 78 sound was simply more appealing. They had a richer, earthier tone, as opposed to a plinky, synthesized one. But the only way to hear any of those songs live, or experience the interplay between the core members, was to see the line up of the day. So there were highlights to each show that made it worthwhile, and moments I simply endured until the next highlight (hopefully) came along. That said, I’ll easily listen to full shows from the aforementioned ten years; whereas I only listen to select tracks from the 80s and 90s. Not sure if that answers your question or not, but that’s all I got.
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Sun, 09/30/2018 - 07:02

Permalink

Good story S.T. It took me a couple years before I was getting decent tapes.. so the first few shows were like the switch from black and white TV to technicolor. A grand adventure.. I like the 80's and dip in and out somewhat frequently, but The 77 Swing is one of my more liked shows. A great one. Take care all.. have a great rest of the weekend. I'm still no through my first listen of the box, but making steady progress.
user picture

Member for

7 years 6 months

Submitted by MDJim on Thu, 10/04/2018 - 06:40

Permalink

Who, us?? We're never wrong, just ahead of our times. I have no idea.. but I get the feeling they are going to mix things up just a bit more... 79 Spartan Stadium is a good guess. One of the tapes I got pretty early on. I still remember making the label for the tape, used red ink for some reason.
user picture

Member for

13 years 10 months

Submitted by nitecat on Thu, 10/04/2018 - 20:10

Permalink

Would be great, I was there! Who's that new guy? Bobby wore sunglasses...
user picture

Member for

9 years 10 months

Submitted by Sixtus_ on Fri, 10/05/2018 - 11:40

Permalink

...this message has landed in my inbox.... "Mark your calendars and ready your phones, tablets, and laptops for Friday, October 12th at 10AM PT because as history shows, our numbered limited-edition Dave's Picks Volume 28 will sell out fast." Mad Speculation? Sixtus
product sku
081227931599