For a number of years I've been keeping a Grateful Dead notebook. Eventually, I began writing impressions and capsule reviews of shows I have in my collection. I've adopted the style Dead archivist Dick Latvala used for the sake of organization, but also as a small tribute to the man. This blog will be an online version of that notebook. Feel free to leave comments or to email me. I want this space to be an open forum for all Deadheads.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

1974-02-23 - Winterland


Venue: Winterland - San Francisco, CA
Tape History: SBD
Release History: None

Set 1
Around & Around, Dire Wolf, Me & Bobby McGee, Sugaree, Mexicali Blues, Here Comes Sunshine, BIODTL, Ship Of Fools, Jack Straw, Deal, Promised Land -> Bertha -> GSET

Set 2
Row Jimmy, WRS Prelude -> WRS Part One -> Let It Grow -> Stella Blue, Big River, Ramble On Rose, Me & My Uncle, He's Gone -> Truckin' -> Drums -> The Other One -> Eyes Of The World -> One More Saturday Night, E: Casey Jones, E: Johnny B. Goode, E: And We Bid You Goodnight



Comments:
04-11-2012: Middle show of a three night run at Winterland. First set is not the strongest, though “Here Comes Sunshine” (see video above) is a very strong tune, expert jamming and uninhibited playing by all. Keith especially shines on this track. The second set is where the money’s at, for sure. “Let It Grow” is a raging version. One of the best for the year. “He’s Gone” -> “Truckin’” -> “Drums” -> “The Other One” -> “Eyes” is a brilliant sequence, full of intense jamming and exceptional work by the whole band. I usually don’t compliment Weir’s playing, but his rhythmic backdrops in this sequence are what give Jerry the space and framework to take off on his breathtaking runs. I have heard this show a number of times, and feel it could grow on me with repeated listenings. Not sure if it can match the next night, one of my first tapes. I’m withholding the Lightning Skull because those kinds of shows must A) have an immediate effect, and B) a lasting effect. Nevertheless, this show is excellent, and a great table-setter for the next evening. Last “HCS” until 12-06-1992.