Grateful Dead

Plus, it was Ithaca, NY, a truly wonderful and magical place. Where else in the lower 48 would it snow in May after a Grateful Dead show? Larry www.GDBartonHall1977.com (photos of the show)

I received a call one day from a friend who had 100's of soundboards and his reason for the call, was to ask what I thought made 5/8/77 so unique. (I was honored that he called me with this question and wanted to give a thoughtful answer)Of course the band was on! but, room-sound system-Betty made for a rare combination of natural sounding reverb and space between instruments. The perfect amount of energy (caffeine?) allowed for awesome sounding and inspired drum arrangements AND Jerry's flat picking(accompanying) was so lively that it could have been a banjo or mandolin on the first set Bobby tunes ! One more honest opinion was Donna. Donna was perfect. Donna was in tune, light when needed and did just exactly what was needed. The transition jams were patient, yet fierce. From the sound emanating from the speakers, they hit nirvana. Phil's fist analogy. When listening to this show, I can almost NOT imagine these folks ever having a disagreement. Finally, to be this 'tight and loose' at the same time, they were enjoying themselves.....listening to themselves!