This being the end November, we have a bit of music from 1972, and of course some terrific material from 1973.
Our first selection this week, which really should have been played last week, I suppose, is from Wichita, Kansas, and as mentioned last week, is one of the finest versions of the The Other One played in 1972, featuring a perfect blend of rock, jazz and psychedelia. I have no idea how to qualify that it is one of the best of 1972, as there were so many stunning versions played throughout 1972, but I sure do like this one. From 11/17/72, Truckin'> The Other One>Brokedown Palace. I can't get enough of this one, up there with 9/17/72 to these ears. Keith, Phil, Bobby, Jerry and Billy play some stunning parts on this night. It lands so smoothly into Brokedown Palace. And what a Brokedown Palace; they are singing their hearts out on the final part of the song.
Next stop this week will be Tempe, Arizona, at Feyline Field on 11/25/73 in the rain. From that interesting show, we have the ultimate, new from 1973 combination of Eyes of the World>Weather Report Suite. Now that's a pair of songs that always brings a smile to my face.
Finally this week, from a few days before the Tempe show, we have this outstanding second set jam from 11/21/73 in Denver, the second of a perfect two night run of shows that falls virtually right in the middle of one of the finest two month stretches in Grateful Dead history. From this magnificent show, we have Mississippi Half-Step>Playing In The Band>El Paso>Playing In The Band>Wharf Rat>Playing In The Band>Morning Dew. Check out those tones Phil is getting during the final segment of Playing In The Band. And what Jerry's doing under that. Whew! Only in 1973!
As you may or may not be aware, this installment of the Tapers Section is our 52nd weekly edition, one year strong, and we're very pleased to say we'll keep going as long as you keep digging it. Thanks for checking in every Monday, and as always, we really do welcome all comments, questions and suggestions. Please send them to the email address below. See you next week!
David Lemieux
vault@dead.net