Grateful Dead

Hey Weve- There are some great Box Set suggestions in your message. 1990- by far prefer the Spring with Brent. Since this tour is recorded on multi track, it seems like a prime Box Set candidate at some point. Like you said, there are a number of Releases from this time frame, and it'd be nice to see something different. I'm a big 70's fan too, though really a fan of well played shows, regardless of the time. Frost 82, Red Rocks 85, Greek Theatre 84, some great picks. I'd love to see any of your suggestions as the next Box.

Listened to most of the First Set so far. The sound is incredible. Thanks

First of all, I LOVE this release. I did already have a good sounding recording of this show, but this Normanized version is light years better (still only on disc one). Liner notes from Blair Jackson are some of his best - I really like the idea of an in depth history of the venue (in this case the Mosque), interesting stuff (I do teach history though). Performance, as we already know, is great - I tend to prefer the more leisurely, ambling, loping Dead, and this first set is a perfect example of that. The cadence/rhythm of Jack Straw just has something about it that sets it apart (Bobby really stands out here). As for complaints about packaging and filler: I agree with those who say you can't win with this one if you base it on anecdotal comments from discussion forums (and I'm not sure they do). If Rhino/Dave really wants to know what us fussy, pain in the ass Deadheads want, a survey would help. They might be surprised to find that, though 80% of comments are complaints that filler ruins the flow of a show, in a survey maybe 80% of the responses would be in favor of filler (or maybe the survey would confirm what was being said in the forum). Of course, then some of us would complain about the survey - "Dude that's so corporate to survey us!" or "The survey font is hard to read!" heh.

I received my copy of this show last week. As I listened to it, I thought to my self, "There has to be better '77 stuff than this out there", but after diving in for another listen, I found the playing truly inspired. The ebb and flow of this show is remarkable, it builds and builds throughout the first set and the final few songs of the first set really shine. The same can be said about the second set, once they find their footing, somewhere in the middle of He's Gone, the rest of the show just keeps building into and amazing Around and Round. The Chuck Berry tunes smoke on this show! Random though #2 I see threads developing regarding a new box set. It seems like everyone is on board with something from the 90's. I too would like to see something done from this period. I, for one, would love to see the Boston Garden run from 1991 released. The setlists and playing are truly great. I recently passed on a bunch of old analogs from this run to a young Deadhead and she flipped out over these shows. MSG from 91 is pretty good too. These two runs are the last shows they played before Bill Graham passed away. A friend of mine who saw the last show at the Boston Garden in 91 remembers that everyone ran out of the place screaming with excitement after the show. David Lemeiux, if you see this thread, take a look into this September 1991 run! Random thought #3 Also how about a Greek 85 set or a 1975 set?

The sound on this set is excellent. But, the packaging is crappy! The cardboard is weak and flimsy. For a "Limited Edition" it should be sturdier. Somewhat like Road Trips. I spent $100.00 for this series, and I expected quality packaging. Come on Blair, fix this please. Also, how about selling a box to hold em all?

I don't understand who are the people buying the new dead releases on cd. Do the buyers want more vintage stuff or newer 90s stuff. I own all the late 80s and 90s stuff but find I hardly ever go back to them. Jerry's voice is horrible and the spacey bridge stuff betweens songs is light. It is hard to believe that only 10000 units are being sold of new releases. It seems from the information being released that the Band isn't too thrilled with their later material. I know there is took of a new box set and think it will be the greek shows from 85 which is ok with me. What I worry about is that due to the numbers are the releases going to slow down. As far as a box goes I would like to see something from 70 or 71 but think 85 is due and there seems to be no other releases slated from then

Yesterday, I finally received the Mosque show. I'm still loading it to the computer so I cannot yet comment on the music/sound (though I must admit that I'm already swayed by what Blair wrote concerning the Scarlet>Fire here...!). What I WOULD like to comment about is the concept of the packaging. NO, not the actual paper and plastic part, but rather the looks and included photos and booklet. One word: outstanding. I signed up for the subscription based upon what I was hoping the music was going to sound like. I didn't know that I was going to be as impressed with the visual contents, but I am/was. And, I must admit, I am slightly embarrassed as well...but more on that in a bit. Somewhat glossing over the cover art (can someone please explain that to me? I simply don't get the connection...), the picture inside as one opens up the package is just a great photo - especially when one realizes that except for a slightly missing bit, that photo is one and not two separate photos. The other photo, inside extreme left cover, gives the appearance of the band - I don't know, just...waaay out there perhaps as if from another time's forgotten space. It's the inclusion though of the little newspaper snippets under the first and second discs that show the research that truly went into this first volume of Dave's Picks. The Richmond News Leader was Richmond's afternoon paper that throughout its history, generally gave more "space" to concerts than the Times-Dispatch did. This was certainly not the exception. These snippets give insite into the sale of tickets as they were only on sale from the Mosque's box office (?). The included booklet and the excellent write-up by Blair was the cause of my little bit of embarrassment... understand that the Mosque is NOT what it used to be. There are very few bands that ever play there now - if any at all, and excepting for the Richmond Symphony, the Mosque is used mainly as a forum for speakers that routinely tour and for comedy events (ie, Bill O'Reilly and Jerry Seinfeld). So, when I read that Jimi Hendrix and the Who and Buddy Holly, and Buffalo Springfield played there, I was embarrassed that, given how long I've lived in Richmond, that I didn't know the real history of that place and who had played there. Wow. It makes me wonder what happened and why (essentially) the music stopped. The included review from the Leader was interesting in a couple of ways. Though the marquee listed the band as The Grateful Dead, Jim Mason kept refereeing to them throughout the review as simply Grateful Dead. Not a big deal, but it does make for some horrible reading! Another thing, Mason makes note of the nights Drums - "But it was a 10-minute solo by the group's two drummers...that ushered in one of the concert's two highs..." but instead of a ten minute Drums, my disc has only a 5:52 version. Hmmm...? And finally, where can I get a copy of that "Starlit Begonias?" Was that a special vinyl only outtake?!?!?! Without listening to the music yet, I say BRAVO to David and Blair and Co for this production. If this packaging is any indicator of what I am about to hear, $99 for my subscription will have been a real STEAL for these first four volumes. Now, off to share an anticipated great Scarlet>Fire with my two year old daughter!!

This richmond show is rockin love it now im ready for the whole spring tour 85 box set or maybe the summer 85 tour box set merriweather shakedown needs to come out.

Everybody who wasn't at this show would have been at the movies for the opening night of Star Wars, hence the synchronicity. Well, in hindsight at least!

Thank you Highthyme. I was not yet six when Star Wars came out, so I for sure had no clue about the Grateful Dead and the experience they would bring to me years later.

Wonderful.Spirited. On cue. David L got the sound just right, and it all feels brand new. The band is SO into their music, I really think this is one of the good ones.

I recieved my copy this past Monday and have had a chance to listen to this release a couple of times through. Hats off to everybody involved for their part of this fine release. The engineering, mastering, the essay, packaging, artwork and original recordists and the band itself have all done a stellar job. Thanks to all of you guys. The next slated release for this series, 7/31/74 Dillon Stadium with the limited edition bonus disc from 7/29/74 Cap Center should convince even the most fickle and snobbish of collectors to appreciate the awesomeness of this new series.

...

Since I'm being forced into a multiple post block - How about an '84 release from Pine Knob, Red Rocks and/or Greek?

The cover art is an homage to "Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope," which was released on the same day the Dead performed at The Mosque.

After having recently re-discovered my love of The Dead, I decided to keep the flame burning by subscribing to the new Dave's Picks series. More than a few fellow Deadheads have told me the sheer excellence of the Dick's Picks series, so I figured, "Why not?" and signed up. Wow, what an amazing show! Jerry and the gang really tore it up at The Mosque in '77! I've listened to a number of other live Dead albums (e.g.: Skull & Roses and Europe '72 vols. 1 & 2 to name a few), and there's something unique about this particular concert. Their songs feel much tighter, and I can feel a certain level of excitement from the band, something akin to sheer excitement to be back on the road. Which, if you read the liner notes--and I suggest you do so--makes sense after such a long hiatus from touring. My hat goes off to everyone involved in putting this package together, too. From the music to the packaging to the liner notes themselves, bravo! If only more bands could leave behind such an epic legacy as The Dead.

just noticed the B&W photo of "Space" & Jerry inside where the booklet is kept..nice addition. Sound quality is excellent! As for a show it is a good Spring 77 show but on first listen I found Set 1 the stronger...special notice to Mexicali. I think TLEO is an ok song...but why must they play it so slow....their is a version somewhere, I'm guessing, between '78-'82, which is played with tempo of "Second That Emotion"...it works so much better.

... the more I love. Thank you again Dave and co. Subscription was a great idea! The sounds is great, I think that packaging is fine, and the MUSIC! I have a lot of that Spring 77' tour, but this ranks up there with Boston and (my personal fave, Buffalo.) Anyway... thanks again, and I cannot wait for the next release!

Received this new offering in the mail yesterday. Sadly, the first impression was the package seems flimsy, even though it includes plenty of that nasty plastic. The spine will tear with the slightest abuse. The photos and essay are pretty decent, and including a few local press clippings is a real nice touch. But luckily, wow the music is superb! A nice pick, and a VERY NICE mix! Every instrument is coming across crystal clear. The hall quality is present, but with only a hint of crowd noise. Great work, everyone! ~hj

I posted this in the Dave's Picks thread but that has vanished so I'll post a summarised version (and apologise to everyone who must be sick of reading this by now): I haven't received my Road Trips 4.5 yet. I've just received my Dave's Picks 1 and previously received the Dead movie Blu-Ray. Clearly something has gone wrong with my RT4.5. I have contacted customer service six or seven times now. The latest they told me was that they had intended to send a replacement, had not done so but would do so shortly. Since then (almost a month ago) I've heard nothing. I've sent two further emails and received no reply. My RT subscription order has only been 3/4 fulfilled. Can you please suggest something or, better still, help to resolve this? My customer support number is 400725066‏. I can provide copies of the emails, my original order number, anything. I just want someone to resolve this for me and right now it looks like Customer Service is just not bothering to send me what I paid for. Pretty please?

as richmonder since 73 i must point out that mosque (now officially called The Landmark Theater for political sensitivity reasons) actually still hosts some good music, i saw both neil young solo and paul simon with his awesome band there in 2011 also seen phil and friends, ratdog, WSP, sting (not so good) government mule and even dylan there among others in the last 10 years the sound there isnt usually so good for loud bands but the two shows i mentioned from 2011 sounded great, ive seen the allmans there at least twice and lets just say id much rather hear them outside although this mosque 77 release sounds awesome i wonder what it it was like at the show, aud tapes dont indicate very good sound in the house, unfortunately i had not discovered the dead yet in 77 oh yeah alison krauss and jerry douglas are coming to the mosque in april

as I said in the Dave's Picks thread, I'm looking into it. And since then, I've emailed with Dr. Rhino who says he's already got someone on the case.

before I came along, the Dr. had requested a re-ship of your Road Trip.

Thank you. I apologise for not seeing your reply in the other thread. I can't find the other thread. I appreciate your help. I guess I'll just sit tight. Cheers.

(repeat)

Nope, I just can't stop. Jerry's guitar is like an old friend coming to visit. Freakin love it!!

The music and mix as always, is excellent. Thanks David, Jeffrey & Team! I do wish that the Dave’s Picks series had followed in the footsteps of the Dick’s Picks series, dropping the “Limit Edition” marketing. Just produce whatever quantity makes financial sense to recoop production costs and to make a decent profit, then continue future production runs based on customer demand. Once something is tagged as “Limited”, the profiteers are guaranteed to buy up a fair amount to re-sell on eBay. The gouging doesn’t start in a “couple of years”, it starts immediately. In addition to the standard liner notes, I would love to see some mastering notes from Jeffrey Norman. Thanks!

The Grateful Dead are Great!!!

THANKS Dave. Grateful for the pick. Fantastic liner notes by Blair. He describes this performance at The Mosque like Gibbon did Rome ;)Great start to the new series and looking forward to more. Lets hear some picks from 76!

I wish every show sounds as great as this one. It's really the gold standard for how excellent a 77 show can sound. There are quite a few highlights here- One that surprised me is Donna's vocals during the transition to Fire- about as perfect as can be. Thanks again for another fantastic release!

received my all music edition of europe 72 about 3weeks ago.have no issues at all with the cardboard sleeves.al discs are easy to remove and have not found a defective disc yet.but the the packaging for dave's picks,digi-packs are fine but how flimsy and weak is the cardboard,it's more like paper

I agree with Zuckfun about Donna's vocals on Scarlet. She really sounds great through the entire show.

The sound is incredible, and the show sounds fantastic, BUT the packaging is horrible! Cheap flimsy cardboard. For a "Limited Edition" I expected better quality. Come on Blair, please fix this.

Think I'll turn it up on disc 2, with the steller Scarlet > Fire duo: that should shake the bones of my 85 year old father-in-law and get him out of the sack! BTW, I just noticed a Jerry photo inside the booklet sleeve. I like this packaging better than that used for Europe '72, No.2, and on the Road Trips June 16 -18, '74. Of the 3 cd's, my Windows Media Player only shows the title and songs on cd #3. #1 & #2 show as "unknown artist". Betty Cantor sure did a wonderful job with the original tape recordings on these '77 shows. Looking forward to Dave's Pick #2!

I agree that the show sounds fantastic. I love the design of the packaging although I do think the weight of the cardboard should be heavier. Please use heavier stock for future releases! I am very careful with my Cd's and Lps and most of my collection, even releases from the 1950's are near mint. I usually handle media with kid gloves but I will be extra careful with this packaging as I am with the Europe 72. With a thicker cardboard these would be just exactly perfect. Other than that minor fixable issue, I am pleased with this release! Thanks Dave, Blair and crew.

Posting the same comment daily is spam. We get your drift. Please cut it out. Any further such posts will be deleted. Thank you. Mary the moderator

I just listened to the first disk. Anyone else notice the sound rolling in and out on promissed land? I would think that would be something they could fix in mastering. Or do I have a messed up disk? Otherwise sounded really good, wasn't sure what to expect because i haven't heard this show i don't think. Jerry doesn't sound as on a tear as some other shows right around this one but some really good sound by the whole band. Listening to set two now. Need to give one another listen. I don't really care about the packaging except for me sturdier is always better. As far as future releases i would definitely love to hear one of those smokin' 76ers that I have only heard parts of like when they were doing king solomans. As others mentioned I would also love to hear some mid to early 80's even 87 has some super sweet stuff. Whioever mentioned that september '91 run also makes a great point. Those were some awesome shows, one of my fav Jack straws is from the msg run, jerry just unleashes hell in the second solo. And finally as far as fillers go i say throw stuff in that will never get released on its own because parts are missing or f'ed up. Extra music, I'm not going to complain. If you just want the show in pure form then just copy it to new disks however you want. All my old boots that had room had fillers and they never bothered me. Just my two cents

really glad that my first volume arrived yesterday. pretty good shipping time for Canada imo. These discs sound really good. I just put on disc 2, and as others have said donna's vocals are nice. I am also happy with the packaging. This should preserve the discs nicely. I have a couple discs from the winterland 77 box that have been rendered UN listenable, which is a shame. Just glad I always rip the discs to my hard drive. Excited for volume 2. However I would like to say it would be great to get a show from the 80's or 90's with this years subscription.

Yes, I also noticed the sound rolling in and out on Promised Land, levels jumps back and forth between the left and right channel. It is very obvious when listening with headphones. Is everyone else hearing the same, or are we dealing with defective disks?

Didn't really notice today when listening for first time, but i was listening through a surround sound stereo system, not sure how that would affect it.

Yes, I hear the same during Promised Land, probably a glitch on the master reel. Fortunately, the rest of the show sounds superb. 77 at it's finest- brilliant choice

Just started giving a second listen. Great half-step. By the way the '87 they just played on sirius was awesome. Would love to hear one of those shows re-"mastered" if they can keep the raw intensity included. Might not be the prettiest vocally but I really love that shit Just realized the jack straw that i reffered to earlier was 9:19:90, not 91. Another awesome concert musically. Also meant 1990 tour, not '91¡. Cool beans. I'm seeing Phil next week and Furthur in April, very happy that I got back into what these guys are doIng now

Got mine yesterday, on the third listen and it just gets better and better. Gongrats to all involved, this is a great release with superb sound and packaging. Don't understand the people complaining about the packaging, how are they handling this stuff? Seems sturdy enough to me to do what it is intended for which is to store CDs.

Love everything about this cd, except the fading in and out on promised land. Sound quality othrwise very good. Personaly I am a fan of the Donna and Keith years. For me, this was a great kick-off to this new series. Thanks to everyone involved.

I hear them too. Kinda interrupts the flow of a great show. Can anyone "official" confirm that they exist on the source and that it's not a CD/pressing error?

The show came in earlier this weekend, I loaded it onto ITunes and gave it a listen. Now that the kids are asleep I am spinning it on the stereo system and it sounds even more spectacular in its full lossless glory. Keep up the great work!

Copies of the master reels of this show, which exist on archive.org, share the same Promised Land flaws....

sweet melt brah as for the music after a solid listen im so glad to have this, sounds so good.

The following is a re-posting of the list of dates that appeared before the Dave's Picks logo. This list is not complete, and again Thanks to cbs73, who had the foresight to write many of these down: 9/28/75 Lindley Meadows- Golden Gate Park- San Francisco, CA 6/10/73 RFK Stadium- Washington, DC 6/30/73 Universal Ampitheatre- Universal City, CA 9/11/73 College Of William and Mary- Williamsburg, VA 6/14/76 Beacon Theatre- New York, NY 6/22/91 Soldier Field- Chicago, IL 6/23/74 Jai-Alai Fronton- Miami, FL 1/2/70 Fillmore East- New York, NY 3/29/93 Knickerbocker Arena- Albany, NY 11/2/84 Berkeley Community Theatre- Berkeley, CA 4/15/78 College Of William and Mary- Williamsburg, VA 10/27/90 Zenith- Paris, France 5/26/73 Kezar Stadium- San Francisco, CA 5/17/74 PNE Coliseum- Vancouver, British Columbia 1/22/78 McArthur Court- Univ. of Oregon- Eugene, OR 3/9/81 Madison Square Garden- New York, NY 4/23/69 The Ark- Boston, MA 5/19/74 Portland Memorial Coliseum- Portland, OR 5/26/77 Baltimore Civic Center- Baltimore, MD 10/3/76 Cobo Arena- Detroit, MI 11/4/77 Cotterell Gym- Colgate Univ. Hamilton, NY 9/18/87 Madison Square Garden- New York, NY 7/31/74 Dillon Stadium- Hartford, CT

I have finally had the time to listen to this. good show with some great moments. The sound quality is excellent as well. I've put it on the ipod for further portable listening. I am struck anew by the differences between 72 and 77. We are all aware of the band's evolution but listening to first night return to London and then putting this show on is a revelation. Just like listening to Fillmore 69 and popping in one of the 72 europe shows right after. I love the guitar tones in both periods for different reasons. The 76-early77 is very smooth, fluid and dare i say it-stately-I have thought electric string quartet with flashes of the cosmos thrown in. The Cassidy solo in this show-wow. Scarlet/Fire -wow. Thank you David, Blair, Jeffrey, et al. Keep them coming as long as they let you. PS-some great piano on this as well.