The Deadcast explores “China Doll,” perhaps the most delicate Dead song, the innovative studio techniques pioneered for From The Mars Hotel, the formation of Round Records (& the making of Jerry Garcia’s sophomore solo album), & the infamous Wall of Sound test at the Cow Palace.
by Jesse Jarnow
“China Doll” was part of a sequence of quiet songs that Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter composed, arguably beginning with “Mountains of the Moon,” “Rosemary,” and “What’s Become of the Baby” on Aoxomoxoa, but developing through “Black Peter,” “Brokedown Palace,” “To Lay Me Down,” “Wharf Rat,” “Comes A Time,” and “Stella Blue.” We previously heard about Elvis Costello’s adventures at the Bickershaw Festival.
David Gans is the author of many excellent Dead books, including This Is All A Dream We Dreamed (with Blair Jackson) and most recently Improvised Lives, available from his site. Brian Anderson is working on Loud and Clear, a history of the Wall of Sound.
Comment
That was just great
Such an interesting breakdown of a beautiful song. Really enjoying the unfolding Wall of Sound story too.
Such an interesting breakdown of a beautiful song. Really enjoying the unfolding Wall of Sound story too.
Lots of cool info in this one.
Peace