If you don’t already think of 1987 as one of those years in which the Grateful Dead often played their original compositions perfectly, then you’re in for a happy surprise. Following his 1986 illness, Garcia repossessed his catalogue of songs with massive joy and a voice that was mightier than it had been in years.
This is a very narrow mix of Garcia singing his heart out on classic Hunter/Garcia compositions (plus “Dew”) in September 1987. I selected from soundboards with mixes that make his voice the center of the performances. The cities are Providence, Washington D.C., New York, and Philadelphia.
Two-hour+ mp3 mix zipped up here (3 LPs or two discs, as you wish. Dates and cities included in mp3 title tags.)
Side One:
- West LA Fadeaway
- Ship of Fools
- High Time
Side Two:
- They Love Each Other
- Fire on the Mountain
- China Doll
Side Three:
- Dire Wolf
- Wharf Rat
- Eyes of the World
Side Four:
- He’s Gone
- Row Jimmy
Side Five:
- Black Peter
- Morning Dew
- Brokedown Palace
Side Six (Encore w/different sound board balance):
- Loser
- Might as Well
- U.S. Blues
CURATORIAL/EDITORIAL CAVEATS:
- The last three selections don’t have Garcia’s vocals as forward and clear in the mix as the rest of the tracks, but the singing and band performances insisted that they be included.
- There are two edits on this mix. “Wharf Rat” and “He’s Gone" switch from 9/16 to 9/20 to combine the better sung version with the more amazing conclusion.