Anyone aware of how the scene is here?? Looking forward to getting to the lot early to enjoy everyone's company before the show!!

do get there early. Traffic is terrible. Lot is way cool. Enjoy.

the lot is great!!!!!!

thanks for the advice...sounds like a smokin show tonight....hope they save some for SPAC...see you there!!! look for the big green van ha ha

I've been here in saratoga since sunday. It is a beautiful town. I'm staying walking distance from SPAC, and have been riding my bike through the grounds (which are in the middle of SPA state park) since we got here. It is definately a beautiful place and should be a fantastic spot for a show. CAN'T WAIT!

the boyz love SPAC. the shows here are always awesome. i have been to everyone. i will be doing the thruway tour (spac, vernon and darien lakes) see ya all on the road.

peace

What time does the lot open?

>>What time does the lot open?<<


the SPAC website says that lots generally open 2 hours before the start of the show...so i guess around 3:30. anyone let me know if things are different....hear the scence is grate there, wondering how security is....

SPAC is an epic venue for a Dead show. I can't think of anywhere I've seen them that comes close, although I've never been to Red Rocks or the Greek. But I think it's almost in that category of really special places they play. The grounds are so beautiful, and inside the show there are trees and buildings and all this crazy shit to wander around and check out while they're playing. It's just amazing.

parking lot scence is good there are many places to park through out the grounds. the ones closest to the gates are more heavily watched by 5-0, but vending is usually allowed.

after the show you might see horse mounted 5-0 outside the gates again. we have had a lot of rain in upstate ny this spring/early summer. everything is green, green , green.

the boyz should be hitting their stride just like last years shows at the knickerbocker in albany(now called pepsi arena but it will always be the knick to me)

tm

SPAC is beautiful but some aspects of the venue suck, based on the one time I was there (P&F 2001). The concession lines were INSANELY long (relative to other venues). The lines to the washrooms were INSANELY long (ditto). Beer in the beer garden only, but no view of the stage from the garden. And they wouldn't let anyone bring any kind of drink, even water, to their seat. I ended up having a great time but I was also singing heartily along with the chorus of Ratdog's Samson & Delilah. ;)

Hope things have changed in that regard. See y'all there!

Things to know about the SPAC, having gone to numerous shows there.
Great scenic venue, plenty of places to roam and enjoy. Better off parking in one of the lots that are away from the main gates (less fuzz, more fun, and i've found that they are easier to get out of once the show is done)
Security is pretty cool (just be mellow and discreet)watch out for the horse mounted cops. One year, I think Further '97, cop saw me and my buddies puffing up by the stream that runs around the back of the SPAC. The guy took his horse down a 55 degree incline, asked us if we had anymore 'stuff' on us (we didn't) then he threw our piece into the stream and told us to hurry before we missed the show!! no hassle. if that had been jones beach or somewhere we would of been locked up. Music is always great and the scene is always loose and mellow (except for the idiots who try to climb the fifteen foot fences around the venue. STAY HOME NO TICKET NO GO!!) Can't hardly wait...thought we would get a shakedown opener but they already used it up at VA beach.

i've been there before, actually at phil and friends in 2001....just wondering if you have the option of which lot to park in, or should i get there a little later so that the closer lot will be filled?? the less fuzz the better IMHO...

I would tell you where to park but that would ruin it for those of us who know where to park - plus difficult to find after show if you don't know your way around the venue grounds.

This is a beautiful State Park and as you drive down the "Avenue of the Pines" into the main parking lot you will really appreciate the sense of grandeur.This is very near the site of the battle which is essentially considered the "Turning Point" of the revolutionary war. "USA,USA,Let Phil Sing, uh .. I mean ROB uh, Joan,oh yeah.. USA..anyway

Everything posted till now is pretty accurate BUT

WORDS OF CAUTION

1.Things, are not as our young friend Ron Steen put it "Just like the old days" Even if the old days for you were 1997. Especially if they were 1987 or before.

SPAC has changed, Saratoga has changed and though still a very cool venue, not nearly as tolerant as they used to be -Staties wll abound - so as Snoop Dogg reminds us, have fun and "Lay Low..." Don't be flagrantly foolish - Upstate N.Y. has fallen on hard econimic times and the 5-0 is lookin for revenue. So in other words - don't park illegaly.

2. For newbies especially - If you plan to "explore" the music and scene in a full and rich manner - remember where your car is- USE A LANDMARK - there are a milion parking places and finding your car, especially if your not in the main lot could be a nice LONG walk around a VERY BIG state park, Which is cool if it's not raining and the moon is full. Otherwise it can be wet and frustrating.

Bring rain gear just in case.

See ya there.

cant wait till tomorrow night. i am telling you we will be in for something magical!!!

with three shows under their belts, things should
start to get REALLY interesting. any heads on this board from syracuse?

peace

i know there are a bunch of little lots scattered around, but i was really referring to the two big lots on either side of the road near the one entrance that you cross the river on foot once you are in the gates.....can you opt to park further from the gate?? or do they direct you where to park from the beginning?? the lot across the road is definately a much cooler scene...anyone have suggestions??

yes you can park further from the gate. you just have to enter the park from another entrance. there are small lots all around, which you already know.

well i am coming to the venue from the south this year (87), so things are a little different....i believe that taking 87N you don't have to go through the "avenue of the pines" is that true?? and one other question....what route separates the two main parking lots?? that is the one i am looking for....i appreciate all the advice...you guys are grate!!! can't wait to get there!!!! work is taking soooo long today.....

you want route 50.

i thought it was route 50....the exit that has to sign for SPAC, is that route 50 right there, or am i going to have to look for it??

Exit 13N to Route 50.

what time are people planning on getting to the lots?? just curious.....

testing

People will be there all day!!!!

Party starts at Noon.See ya.

The curse of the Insomniac......

For me, 6AM isn't too bad.
I got 5 hours sleep & now I'm probably a little wound up for the show tonight.

Monday & Tuesday, 'Built To Last' (of all things) was stuck in my head. Today, it's.........




BABA JINGO

EEK!



It's really not that bad a tune musically. In fact it's pretty good. It's just Mickey's singing.


So, I expect they'll play that.

My hopes are for:

Cryptical >
The Other One >
Cryptical

Although I just really care about TOO & Cryptical is just icing on the cake.

A looooooooong

Playin' In The Band

where they go back into the jam several times during the show before doing the Reprise.

Lazy Lightning >
Supplication

19+ years waiting on that one for me

Morning Dew

with a big build-up at the end


Other than that, we'll see.

Will be in with review late Sat. or noon Sunday.

Anyone know how ticket sales are going for the tour? I got *sweet* balconies last night!

Check Out The Live Chat For
Setlist Updates In Almost Realtime
Also Listen To The 6.18.03 Show Now
Then Tonight's Show Right After The Show

>>>This is from the top of Philzone Home, can someone tell me where to find it, and how this works PLEEZ!!!!

Never mind I figured it out. For $4.95 you can sign up and listen to the shows after they are played. Cool!!

you can sign up for free B'Ville......
on Zoner Radio or 365 i guess you're talking about? it's free

Waiting patiently for the setlist. Countdown to Mansfield is on. I heard they have rehearsed about 150 songs for this tour.

SPAC 6.20.03

Here Comes Sunshine>
Jam>
El Paso>
Stagger Lee>
Dear Mr. Fantasy (SW)>
Baba Jingo>
Looks Like Rain>
Mr. Charlie>
Lovelight

Thanks to FLDeadHead & Buddy, TaperRob, Fritz

The Dead - SPAC 6/20/03

Set 1:
Here Comes Sunshine (RB)> Jam>
El Paso
Stagger Lee (Bob, Joan, Phil)
Dear Mr. Fantasy (Steve Winwood - guitar & vocals)> Jam>
Baba Jingo (Steve - keys)
Looks Like Rain (Bob acoustic)
Mr. Charlie (Joan)>
Lovelight (Bob, Joan)

Winwood on stage for Baba Jingo

Yes! Go Rob (Barroco) it's your birthday get funky!

Set 2.

China Cat
New Potato Caboose>
I Know You Rider>
Drums>
Eyes of the World (Jeff shines)
fade out Jam>
He's Gone>
Cryptical Envelopment>
The Other One>
Cryptical>
Ripple
Sugar Magnolia
Sunshine Daydream

Donor Rap:

We Bid You Good Night

Fritz, you are the best.

Is it true Mike Gordon showed up for a Bass solo?

They are doing a good job mixing up the setlists so far, but I can't believe they already repeated sugar mag. Sweet!

Ripple, Potatoe, what the hell is next Dark Hollow? On the Road again? Monkey? Stay tuned The mother of all shows is coming to a town near you. Bring your dancin shoes!!!!!!!!

What a show! If the playin lived up to the song selection then WOW.

>Ripple, Potatoe, what the hell is next Dark Hollow? On the Road again? Monkey?

Dark Hollow, On the road again, and Monkey all due at Joans Beach Acoustic set.

You got your crypt>Too>crypt (and Baba Jingo)....looks pretty cool on paper, can't wait for the reviews.

Just got home from the show. Mike Gordon joined Phil for a bass solo after drums. Setlist a bit better than the playing. More later.

>>>>>Yes! Go Rob (Barroco) it's your birthday get funky!

Well. A few months ago, but nice sentiment.

mike gordon was definetly there, and the solo was with him and phil right after drums. This was one DANK ASS SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Dead - SPAC 6/20/03

Set 1:
Here Comes Sunshine (RB)> Jam>
El Paso
Stagger Lee (Bob, Joan, Phil)
Dear Mr. Fantasy (Steve Winwood - guitar & vocals)> Jam>
Baba Jingo (Steve - keys)
Looks Like Rain (Bob acoustic)
Mr. Charlie (Joan)>
Lovelight (Bob, Joan)

Set 2:
China Cat Sunflower (Bob)>
New Potato Caboose (Phil)> Jam>
I Know You Rider (Bob, Phil, Joan)>
Drumz (w/ 2 drummers, unknown)>
Dueling Basses (w/Mike Gordan)>
Space (Joan with monkey jungle noises)>
Eyes of the World (Phil, Joan - w/unknown drummer)>
He's Gone (Bob)>
Cryptical (Phil)>
The Other One>
Cryptical>
Ripple (Bob, Joan, Phil)>
Sugar Magnolia
Donor Rap
We Bid You Goodnight

Set 1:
Here Comes Sunshine (RB)> Jam> -- pretty ragged start. Joan really fills out the vocals which sound nice. Song never really takes off. Some nice work by Jimmy but they’re not that tight.

El Paso -- eh

Stagger Lee (Bob, Joan, Phil) -- some really nice moments. They sing in character with Joan as Delia. Rob’s vocals would be better than Bob. Every time Joan sings a line, the energy level rises. She moves perfectly to the music and is a great focal point. It’s a little jarring tho’ – this band, these guys, this music -- and now with a singer who’s just sexy as hell. It’s a little weird, but in a good way.

Dear Mr. Fantasy (Steve Winwood - guitar & vocals)> Jam> -- wow! Winwood plays lead and just wails. I didn’t know he could play guitar like that. Hearing the band play this song but with Winwood’s vocal is a real treat.

Baba Jingo (Steve - keys) -- Winwood stays on and plays keyboard’s. I don't -- I have a longer walk to bathroom than he does.

Looks Like Rain (Bob acoustic) -- eh.

Mr. Charlie (Joan)> -- great version. Did I mention how sexy this woman is? It’s like Donna – if Donna sang on key, had a voice like a sex phone operator and moved a bit like a stripper.

Lovelight (Bob, Joan) -- more of the same. Bob & Joan alternate verses. Some nice verbal interplay between them near the end. Except for Dear Mr. Fantasy, Joan dominates the set. Crowd really responds to her. Some nice moments but for the most part, they just never seem to really click. Sound is good, not great and they’re just not that tight. Jimmy’s playing seems a bit choppier than usual. I’m close [20th row] and on Jimmy’s side. I can hear him clearly but I can’t really hear Weir or the keyboards.

2d Set:
China Cat – just ok except for an interesting jam in the middle. And as happens so often, the sound is now crystal clear [except for Weir’s vocals which remain a bit muddy which is maybe ok since he forgets about half the words to the damn song].

New Potato Caboose –- Phil sings>

I Know You Rider – still just ok. Sound is great, vocals are excellent [Joan really fills out the vocals when they all sing, a very full sound]. They’re getting tighter but they’re still not there>

Drums – excellent. The sound is clear and you can hear a pindrop. Percussionist from Winwood’s band joins them about half way thru. Joan spends the first 5 minutes off to the side banging on a tambourine. Sigh. Mike Gordon joins Phil for a bass thing [can’t be a solo with them both there]. Near the end, Joan does some wonderfully weird vocalizing that sounds a bit like the lobster in “Rock Lobster” [B-52’s]>

Eyes of the World (Jeff shines) -- highlight of the night. Everyone shines. Sound is tight for the first time. Winwood’s percussionist stays on throughout. A great version. And it’s so chilly for June 20th it feels like winter’s summer home

He's Gone – good, not great>

Cryptical Envelopment [Phil]>

The Other One – huge rumble from Phil. But they’re back to just not quite clicking.Nice transition to:>
Cryptical>

Ripple: Nice try but Joan’s too high in the mix. She sounds much better with Phil than she does with Weir. Weir tries to bring them to a dead stop in the middle and everyone just ignores him. Weir’s on acoustic.

Sugar Magnolia/Sunshine Daydream – powerful, excellent

Donor Rap:
We Bid You Good Night -- sweet

I'm sure most people just loved this show. I thought it was a good bit below some of the Other One's shows I saw this fall and well below most of the Phil & Friends shows I've seen over the past few years. But the potential is enormous. And I can't wait for tomorrow.

Set 1: Here Comes Sunshine (RB)>
Jam> El Paso
Stagger Lee
(Bob, Joan, Phil)
*Dear Mr. Fantasy>
Jam> *Baba Jingo
@Looks Like Rain
Mr. Charlie (Joan)>
Lovelight (Bob, Joan)

*with Steve Winwood

Well it seems I may be the first one back from the show...so I 'll just give a quick review.

HC: a bit slow, few minor miscues here and there. Seemed like they couldn't kick it into gear.

El Paso: Uggggghhhhh, the dreaded Bobby cowboy tunes...while I must admit, I don't mind them too much, it just wasn't what I was hoping for. And after a Slow HC, it just wasn't a good combo.

Stagger Lee: At this point the boys seemed to kick it up a notch, like "Practice is over it's showtime!"

Dear Mr. Fantasy: Shit man! Steve Winwood rippin' it up on his axe...very well done.

Baba Jingo: Strike me Dead, but I really liked it, Winwood wailing on keys, Jimmy ripping on guitar. A lot of energy, a nice carry over from Fantasy and you could tell the Set was building to a climax.

LLR: Well done, again a mellow selection, but with cloudy skies and a few rain drops here and there, it seemed Bobby wanted to stir up some old magic.

Mr Charlie>Lovelight: Definately the best part of the first set...the boys were ripping and whoever has anything bad to say about Joan, has got no soul. Damn, she's got the Mott's!

Set II
Set 2: China Cat Sunflower
New Potato Caboose>
I Know you Rider>
+Drums> ^Bass Jam>
+Eyes Of The World>
Jam> He's Gone (BJP)>
Cryptical Envelopment>
The Other One> Cryptical
Ripple, Sugar Magnolia
E: Bid You Goodnight

+w/ Winwood Drummers
^w/ Mike Gordon on Bass

China: Not bad, noticed a few miscues, but nicely played overall.

New Potato: Well done, a bit mellow again.

Rider>Drums: Awesome Rider! Tons of energy, great harmonies, the crowd was really pumping! Then into what seemed to be an eternity of drums...wiped out any energy that Rider had built.

Bass jam>Eyes: Mike Gordan, Phil jamming with some background drums...always a nice touch when unexpected vistors appear. Joan was doing some screeching thing @ the end of the jam. The "eyes" was nice, one miscue, Phil, I think forgot to hit his switch, anyhow great harmonies and always a great tune to hear.

He's Gone: Great job, vocally and musically.

Cryp>TOO>Cryp: All I can say about this is PHIL DROPPED THE BIGGEST BOMB I HAVE HEARD IN A VERY LONG TIME!

SMOKIN'!

Ripple: Very mellow, nicely done.

Sugar mags: fun, bouncy, and always a crowd pleaser.

Bid: As with all thing this evening, the vocals were outstanding!

Side notes:
After seeing Joan with the boys, all those naysayers out there ripping on her are totally wrong. She rips, she has a totally powerful, soulful voice. If you don't dig her, you just ain't got soul.

Overall I give the show a B+, just cause it seemed to never catch fire.

Also got to meet Mike Pace, Fritz
~D~Mamma, and D~Dream! We didn't get to chat for too long, but it was totally cool to finally meet.

Hope you guys made it home ok!

Not much to add really reddy. You pretty much nailed it. St. Stephen>11 tomorrow should smoke.

Intro to O1 was one hell of a bomb indeed.

You heard it 1st here Smarko.

I'm waitin for Bucky's review.

That cryp>too>cryp sounded like it was 1969 on the stream.

we had a really sweet chanting goose-bumpy time in the chatroom at the end of He's Gone...
y'all shoulda been there...
oh, wait... you *were* there...!

thanks rob!!!!!!

>I'm waitin for Bucky's review.

i already got his review.. im sure he will post it when he gets back home...

yeah rob, thanks ALOT! it's great that you go out and tape the shows let alone rush home and upload them so we can hear them THAT NIGHT! i've told you once and i'll tell you again, you're the man!

No Doubt!!! Those of us who are not there have an opportunity to hear for ourselve so soon after. The wonders of technology give us an unprecidented opportunity -- and I love it.

Remember the days of waiting for tapes -- if you didn't tape it yourself. Thank you all for being part of this community.

Rob,

It appears Bucky isn't ready for mass distribution yet. How about a tease from you... We'll wait for the film at 11.

with that set list looks like the band hit the trifecta smoking Lew

>>>>Rob,

It appears Bucky isn't ready for mass distribution yet. How about a tease from you... We'll wait for the film at 11.<<<<<....


He basically said that "The show BLEW....if you thought that was good I want's some of what your smoking...."

ouch

>>He basically said that "The show BLEW...

There's a shocker...

no teases from me.. let the man speak for himself....

as for my review... film at 11...

ok so since its almost 11am, here goes..


JIMMY is the man.... and JOAN can sing to me anyday

thats it

well im not going to do a song by song breakdown or anything....just thought id throw in my .02......1st set was solid....nothing spectacular but solid....joan seems like shes having a blast-she sounds great! the band seems like it has alot more direction now than in the fall-jimmy especially seems to have begub to settle comfortably into his role. 2nd set had some truly excelent moments....started with a rough chincat-bobby compltely lost his way on lyrics-looked frustrated...by rider things really started to click. things got good and spacey by mid set-they did a great job at pushing things to edge of madness-then pulling back to ground-excelent. very crazy drums. mike came out on one of those self balancing riding things-did whole bass duel while riding it. eyes was simply great. phil dropped an EARTH shattering bomb during too...really some great stuff here... ripple seemed to have some equip problems-bob was using an acoustic....was pulled of nicely tho. sugar mag was done with more passion an energy than ive seen in awhile. and we bid you gnite was excelent-all in all...wonderful show that put to rest some of my concerns about direction, name change etc.--have faith in the boys!

Joan is a great addition to the band on a limited basis, but when she sings on most of the songs, it gives the band a very folky sound that I could do without (almost like some religious revival).
I think the match is better suited to a secect mix of songs like last night's Stagger Lee and Lovelight - Smokin'!
Winwood was excellent! Mr.Fantasy was anticipated, and appreciated.
Smoking start to Drums, but they lost some impact as they drew on.
Nobody has mentioned that Gordon was playing bass while riding on wheels.......
I think the band also needs to crank up the volume a bit, there wasn't enough of the Phil Zone happening in the first set.
Overall, there was plenty of The Dead to fill the need of most Deadheads!!!!!

Is everyone sleeping in this morning?

Need some more reviews of the show

what time have the band(s) been going on and playing until?

Let Rob Boracco sing!!!

Am I wrong, or is Here Comes Sunshine the first lead vocal Rob has gotten all tour?

Hard to believe. I know they're trying to focus on the 4 original members and nothing against Weir.....but hey, they also happen to have the world's foremost Jerry Garcia impersenator in their band. He can belt out China Cat like nobody's business, and he NEVER forgets lyrics.

What other songs should Boracco carry? Brown Eyed Women. Doin that Rag. I am the Walrus and Lucy in the Sky. And, most of all......Help on the Way! He owns that tune.

Alright, i feel compelled to share my opinions of the show, so HERE we go....

1st set: HCS had me smiling but was a little loose. Dear Mr. Fantasy and Stagger Lee were played well and Lovelight's energy was high. Phil's Bass was REALLY quiet though, and he didn't sing enough. But that's just my opinion. Looks like Rain was a nice treat but was really nothing to write home about. This too, however, had me smiling. My biggest complaint about the firt set was the fact that the energy levels fluctuated ALL over the place. The set didn't flow and, although the song selection was interesting, it was a bit choppy.

2nd Set: YEAH!!!! PHIL'S BASS IS TURNED UP! but ChinaCat starts off pretty slow, funky and loose. New Potato Caboose was good (phil sang), and the energy was high during Rider, but nothing GREAT. Drums was SICK. Some great moments.
Bass Jam.....didn't even notice Gordon until my buddy informed me...but lo and behold, there he was on his scooter. WEIRD. The jam was beautiful until Joan joined in with her dolphin noises (sorry guys, i like joan and all, but come on...i don't think that was 100% necessary ).
Eyes was great & with a high enery level, but for some reason didn't really get me moving. The jam into He's Gone was pleasant...and the song itself was, in my opinion, a great version with great vocals and musicianship. Bobby seemed to be in a nostalgic mood last night.
CRYPTICAL!! WOO HOO. Good old Phil. This version was good, but the transition to "the summer sun" part seemed a little rough.
Next came the phattest Bass Bomb i've heard in a while at the start of TOO. Again, a good version. It had me dancin'...but the transition back into Cryptical seemed a little rough. Maybe it was just me, but it wasn't up to PLQ level on the "smooth-o-meter".
The Ripple was quite a surprise and almost had me crying. I gave the person next to me a hug when it started. I don't even care whether or not this was a good version. You just don't hear this song enough to be really critical. BUT, i think Joan's vocals were a bit too high. Oh well.
Sugar Mags was rockin' and a good way to close the second set. I have no criticism of this song. It was solid and tight from what i remember.
I love bid you goodnight, so that is all i will say about that.

All in all, a very very very enjoyable show. I've heard tighter and more flowing sets before and better playing, but the energy was positive, phil was laying down the bass like it was nobody's business and the band was HAVING FUN!!!!!!!!
And that's what really matters.

*This is all just my opinion and i am not a great critic of music, but i was there and this is what i thought of it...hope it was interesting to read*

Last night the show ended around 11:30 i think.

The two wheeled scooter that Mike Gordon was riding is called the Segway (it was killing me to remember the name of it). A close look at it during the bass act, had it moving noticably forward and back, which had to be a distraction for him. He played as if he didn't notice.
I have to agree, that the "dolphin noises" weren't a highlight. I thought Yoko was in the house!

WOOOOO!!! HOOOOOOO!!!!!!

Zone Radio..First song HCSS..Rob sings..Don't tell me they don't read these threads..

LLR..Bob..I I I I I I gotten use to having you around...Chuckle chuckle here..

Nice Beavis impersonation..LOL..(Laughing is good..)

First set very slow at the spac..

Stagger Lee and Mr Charlie were my favs out of the first set..
Have to admit Babba Jingo was pretty good.Jimmy boogies on that tune.

But 3 good songs doesnt make a good set.

Second set..China Cat
I do not know why Bob doesnt just let Jimmy take his guitar part..Bob almost always f--cks up his own lick..
But as it got going Jimmy took it over.
New Potato was great..

Eyes- some really sweet jamming going on during that tune.
He's Gone..Sentimental fav for me..

Only thing I can say is Eyes>He's Gone..I really miss Jerry and big time during this stretch..I liked what they played, but got a tear in my eye so to speak and really missed the old days..

Ever notice even in PLQ it takes two people to equal Jerry? And even in my much love for PLQ I still see Jerrys void..

Other than the rearranged Ripple, the whole second set smoked..
Drums>Duel Bass jam...Pretty sick

Cryptical>Other One was on fire..Phil with the bomb opening and Jimmy ripping it..The way it should be..


This show was sort of in limbo..Have to admit wish Bob sat out the first set and Warren would have showed up to do the first set..

But got thru and the jamming in the 2nd gave me enough mind f--k to come away with a balance.

Not a bad time, but not special..Missed hanging with some people, sorry for that got too much of a beer buzz.
But see ya'll on the road and with a clearer head.

phil bomabastic on the intro to the other one, even though i was waiting for it , still knocked me out of my seat. great show!!! highlights: stagger lee, el paso, dear mr. fantasy, new potatato caboose,.. notice how the second set features all songs performed before 1972, and in fact the entire show has only 2 songs performed after '72. great show, the vibe was awesome and although on places the music was sloppy the entire show as a whole was classic. even phil before the encore talked about the magic of the venue and how they "hoped we gave a little of that magic back" well, they certainly did on this night. us who were there are lucky, a night to remember.

the cryptical-other one was a reference version...rare to see that perfection!!
i have an idea....why not write only about the positive personal moments we saw so we stop shading the light from other people's vision? we all know that each seat and each space at an event is SO unique...so let some of the dumb criticism rest...............250 shows+

I agree that people should focus on the positive...and i think that most people, myself included, had a hell of a time at the shows they went to...but it's also interesting to hear people's opinions of the show, which includes their criticisms. I think there should be a pretty good balance between the criticisms and the positive comments...but the positive should outweigh just a little bit

i thought SPAC was a good show that didn't really start to take off til after the drums.
the 1st set was slow and the El paso & LL Rain was a major buzzkill and i spent the entire 1st set on the upper lawn, except for the Dear Mr. Fantasy the highlight of the 1st set.
Phil's bomb on the Other One was loud and crunchy. as said above this was a reference version with the drum intro after the 1st Cryptical.
the Sugar Mag rocked. the Ripple was nice but flawwed when Bobby jumped the vocal at midpoint.
great meeting up with the people i did and hope to meet more at the next 5 shows

hey what happened to my post?

Ok, here it goes again.

I was in the balcony so the sound may not have been what it was in the first twenty rows, but it was better then the lawn. It got much better by Stagger Lee. HCSS was a little choppy, but I like the song. Stagger was fun and I think Joan added a lot (I was impressed with her). Stevie was great on Fantasy and I even liked Baba Jingo this time, although almost any song would have been better. Joan was great on Mr. Charlie, and this is one of the old songs I really wanted to hear. Her interplay with Bob (and the overall playing) made Lovelight a good closer.

Who doesn't like China->Rider even with a lot of miscues. I love New Potato, and the spacy jam was a highlight for me. Rider had good energy, but Phils bass was not loud enough for me. My wife and I liked drums more than usual. I heard Mike Gordon play a bass duet with Phil a few New Year's back, and his bass was loud in the balcony. I didn't mind Joan's dolphin noises as some people did. Eyes is fun, but I miss Jerry on this song. I thought the vocals on He's Gone were done very well and enjoyed this tune very much. Cryptical is also one of my favorites, but beside the great Phil intro (turned up, so it shook the balcony) TOO was not what I had hoped for. Sometimes Jimmy tries too hard to not sound like Jerry and he can play too many notes when less would be better (hey, but that's just me). TOO is my brother's favorite Dead song (although he usually listens to 71 and always pre 73 shows)and he left to go to the bathroom!!! Ripple, no matter how many flaws, is beautiful and always sweet to hear. Sugar Mag an excellent up-tempo closer. What can you say about We Bid You Godnight, but THANK YOU!!

Overall a B, B+ show. I always will have fun no matter what they play. They obviously were enjoying playing for us and that makes it more fun for me. Enjoy whatever shows you are lucky enough to see/hear. It's great to have them back

jammy

dead head since 76

Enjoyed the show but I thought each of the three shows I saw last fall (Albany, Meadowlands, MSG) were better. That being said, Joan is a great addition to the band. She seems awfully comfortable up there with the boys and she is very easy on the eyes!

Jimmy didn't blow me away as he did last fall either. It almost seemed like he was trying to be more like Jerry rather than adding his own touch. Too bad because his touch is what makes him special.

1st set was very blah with a great Mr. Charlie/Lovelight to close. Sugar Mag was my highlight of the second set. Good night was great....don't think they could have pulled it off without Joan.

anyone know what bob seemed so upset at during ripple?? the song seemed to lose a little magic after that......

well, well, well

This is my first and probably only show of the tour and it was awesome!

I took my 2 kids - male types one 18 and one 15, both metal heads. I am a deadhead from the word DROP, and have taken them to Ozzfest, etc - so now it was my turn (although I didn't notice any hesitation on their part, maybe a little begging actually).

We scored nice balcony seats on Thurdsay, close to center a few rows back so a great view. Got in late, no Winwood :-( Arrived at seats about 7:15 and were immediately stoked!

The kids and I were immediately grabbed by the show, right from the git go. At the setbreak, when I went to adjust my altitude, I cam back and they BOTH had t-shirts. My older son actually bought a tie die, after bout 5 years of black shirts!

2 new converts, get on the bus...

>I am a deadhead from the word DROP

Now that's cool...sounds like your family had a kick ass time Cocoa Pepper.

Here Comes Sunshine was a nice low-key start and I was really happy to see Rob's smiling face up on the big screens to start the show. It had a good loose groove. But instead of building on that, El Paso stretched the anticipation level a little thin. Stagger Lee was a good call and had strong delivery. The Dear Mr. Fantasy with Winwood was a treat and he rose to the occassion by just wailing on his guitar. This turned into a really hot Baba Jingo with Winwood once again ripping it up, this time on the organ. Herring was great here and the song really smoked. The acoustic Looks Like Rain sounded nice but they dropped the ball again with the energy level. And then again they brought it back up with a roaring Mr. Charlie. The set closing Lovelight was really strong with good interplay between Bobby and Joan. I get the feeling Lovelight could become something special this tour if they really stretch it out. As good as it was, it had plenty of untapped potential.

If Pigpen was the ghost of the first set, then it was Jerry in the second. Beginning with a choppy China Cat Sunflower, it segued into a good New Potato Caboose that had some great dynamics. They went back into a short China jam before dropping nicely into I Know You Rider. I thought the set really took off with Drums which started with Bill and Mickey who were then joined by Steve Winwood's drummer and percussionist and they developed a really intense theme that propelled the band into a fantastic run of songs to close it out. Forgoing space for Mike and Phil's bass jam was a really fun surprise. I don't think Joan added anything with her vocals but it was all part of the goofiness of the scene, with Mike on the scooter. Then I really started having fun when Eyes of the World started up. I'm used to seeing Rob take the solo on this one so it was cool seeing Jeff get his chance. He went nuts. Jimmy's solo was also pretty crazy and this was just a terrific rendition. He's Gone caught me off guard because I never thought about them playing this. It was great and everyone loved singing along. That's It For The Other One was the highlight of the show. I can't wait to hear this one back. The Phil bomb that everyone keeps mentioning has to be heard. The only times I've caught this song with Phil and Friends, they've gone right into the rhythm without the bomb. You need the bomb!!! I jumped out of my skin!! Jimmy was ripping shit up during the jams. I loved it. At this point I thought the encore was just a formality when Bobby strapped on the acoustic and started up Ripple. There was an unfortunate flub in the middle with Bobby misdirecting traffic. Once again I thought it was over when they brought out a frenzied Sugar Magnolia which finally ended the set. Phil came out and talked about the gods of the waters before sending us on our way with a ragged And We Bid You Goodnight that was a real privilege to finally hear live.

This was a great show.

Here Comes Sunshine (RB)> Jam>- Kind of a mellow start, although nice to see that Rob hasn't hung up his vocal contributions...The jam picked up a bit at the end, and the harmonies were excellent
El Paso- Nicely handled, although not my favorite song, Bob seems a lil more vocally in tune with whats going on around him...
Stagger Lee (Bob, Joan, Phil)VERY nice sing-along, and well done, I thought the sound got a litlle better at about this point
Dear Mr. Fantasy (Steve Winwood - guitar & vocals)> Jam>- This was FANTASTIC, Winwood should be among the permanent line-up!
Baba Jingo (Steve - keys)-Not a bad version, although it was nice to get Mickeys vocal fix out of the way!
Looks Like Rain (Bob acoustic)-Well done, but started to get the impression that Mr.Weir was in mellow-mood
Mr. Charlie (Joan)> EXCELLENT, Joans a keeper after this one!
Lovelight (Bob, Joan)-Very nice, with great vocal duel between Bob and Joan. Boy has she got ENERGY on the stage. Must take alot of guts to put on these antics in front of this crowd! I LOVED it, though!

Set 2:
China Cat Sunflower (Bob)> Sorta rocky, but VERY Phil!
New Potato Caboose (Phil)> Jam> Sweet, and melodic with a great exit jam that went back to China Cat for a moment before the "rider" jam
I Know You Rider (Bob, Phil, Joan)> Very fun and LOUD, full crowd participation
Drumz (w/ 2 drummers, unknown)> Very tribal, and by far the best drum segment I have ever heard
Dueling Basses (w/Mike Gordan)> Kinda felt like I had the inside scoop on this one, as a fellow told me he had seen him before the show, but it was still a fun moment. Phil was really on fire during this entire set, but seemed really jazzed for this jam
Space (Joan with monkey jungle noises)>-weird, I don't know WHERE those sounds came from!
Eyes of the World (Phil, Joan - w/unknown drummer)> Very sweet, the backbone of the set, for sure, great jamming!
He's Gone (Bob)> He's Gone was well, He's Gone...
Cryptical (Phil)> Since I thought He's Gone was gonna close the set, this was nice to hear, and well done, to boot
The Other One> Best Phil bomb I have EVER seen! Worth the price of admission just for that! this ripped
Cryptical> ditto first verses...
Ripple (Bob, Joan, Phil)> There was a weird vibe from Bobby during this song, and a flub in the middle, it seemed like a little friction between him and Joan, but Joan shrugged it off and just smiled, pretty cool...Don't let Bobby give you shit, joan! I thought it was GREAT hearing them do this song, though!
Sugar Magnolia- Wow, was this loud and rockin! Great version of a song that usually doesn't get me too juiced up.
Donor Rap-Phil came out without his Bass, so knew where this was headed, but he had some good words for Saratoga("Magic")
We Bid You Goodnight-Very nice, and fitting end to a mostly mellow, but very enjoyable show...

Overall-Very sweet show, alot of variety. Joan was NOT as intrusive as she is being made to sound like, and fits in very well. I just don't think some folks can handle the change, the stage presence/dynamics ARE different, but it hasn't taken away from "Jam" potential, there were some good grooves, and the sound is improved. Phil was the dominating force during the second set, along with a GREAT drum sequence. Lot scene was alot of fun as well, although I missed mettin' any of you folks....Maybe at Vernon I will wear a sign!

The SPAC show was a little rough musically. There were highlights that were very enjoyable. Overall though, the band needs some more time to rehearse, play more live shows and it should all come together.

The highlight for me was Jimmy's lead guitar work during Eyes of The World. Seeing Stevie Winwood sing Dear Mr. Fantasy was also cool and the Bass Duet jam following the 4 drummers was neat.

My wife and I were debating what exactly Joan Osborne adds to the mix. She sings well and she certainly has a better voice than Donna Godchaux (then again that ain't saying too much. No offense meant to all three Donna Godchaux fans). Other than Joan's lead vocals on Mr. Charlie > Lovelight, her role was minimal and we could've done without the dancing prancing tamborine shaking distractions.

Ripple was so badly muffed that I would loathe to hear it again. I have a suggestion. After almost 40 years playing some of these songs, I would think the band would know the lyrics by now. Hey guys, get yourselves some Teleprompters. It would help. For Bobby they can scroll the the Teleprompter lyrics backwards, that should compensate for Weir's dyslexia and lack of ability to remember where is when he's trying to sing and strum at the same time. Just a thought.

There have been a ton of reviews already, so I will only add a couple thoughts. I seem to agree with most here that it was a good, fun show, but nothing too special. It made me think this is a gerat band that would be really awesome to see on a great night, but this wasn't it. First set highlight was definitely Mr. Charlie, as was just about every song that Joan took the lead for.
The one thing I disagree with from most reviews I've seen was that Eyes was the backbone of the set. I thought Eyes -> He's Gone was by far the weakest part of the show (I missed El Paso). What I came to realize after 3 shows is that I really don't like how it sounds when Joan tries to sing equally with Bobby or Phil, as she did on Eyes (all 3 of them?). It seems like they all hold each other back while trying to sing at the same time, and so it never has enough power. It's a very pleasant, country-type sound, but feels weak to me. When she takes a lead alone, she absolutely rips it up. I would have loved to hear just her singing the lead to Eyes, and let the other boys chime in at the right times. But hearing them all together just doesn't quite work. It seems like she really screws Bobby up, because when he forgets the words, she keeps singing, and then he can't just mumble or make somthing up, because she's still singing. But apparently her singing the actual words doesn't help him, because he still flails. You'd think he'd been doing these tunes long enough that he might know the words, but apparrently not. Do you think he's just lazy? Incredibly spacy? It seems like he botches just about every song these days, and usually pretty badly.
Anyway, I digress. My main comment was that I don't like it when they try to sing the verses of faster tunes at the same time. I'd rather see any one of them take the lead and let the others back it up.
Oh, and He's Gone. I thought it absolutely sucked with Bobby singing it. I liked him on some of the Jerry tunes - Touch, Scarlet from the next night come to mind, but he's gone was just awful. He has this Vegas lounge singer style which really doesn't work for He's Gone, Help on the Way, probably some others. Why the hell don't they let Rob sing?? It's great to have Joan picking up some of the tunes Phil likes to butcher, but if they would get Bobby out of the way this would be an absolutely amazing band. Well they still are, but they might be as good as Phil and Friends if they'd like the people with the voices do the singing...

re-reading my post - correction

I thought the vocals at THE END of he's gone were done very well - the interplay between Joan/Bob/Phil. And I agree, where was Rob? Hisvoice would sound great here.

Spac was a great show. From beggining to end. The highlight for me were definately Stagger Lee. I got so Happy when the started playing it, and they did an excellent rendition. I loved El Paso, cause I haven't gotten a chance to see Bobby play it live. That's it for the Other One was perfection. The whole show was just great. Excellent flow, great jams, transitions were excellent, tempo changes were right on, the show was just awesome. I'd give it either an A or A+. It was definately a better show than Hartford, and on the same level as Bonnaroo and Great Woods. The boys are back with something to prove, and boy are they proving it. Peace.

There were three things i was aking before this show

1)to hear Dear Mr. Fantasy with Winwood singing(got it)
2)to hear Phil's rumble to start The Other One (boy did I get it)
3)to hear the da da ding da da ding da da ding ding ding ding during the Sugar Mag instrumental(got it)..

so... since I got all three I was satisfied with the show,although it was almost a disaster when they took all the air out of the show when they started He's Gone,they made up for it with Cryptical,Other one,Ripple,Sugar Mag....
overall B.

I'm new to commenting in this review section but here's my opinion of the SPAC show.

Highlights for me were:
Stagger Lee,
Dear Mr. Fantasy>
Baba Jingo (I don't care for this song but it was played very well.)
Mr. Charlie,
I Know You Rider > Drums > Bass Jam >
Eyes of the World,
The Other One (Phil's entry)
Sugar Mags
Bid You Good Night

Over all I thought it was a good show. I hope as the tour rolls on they start to play more "with out a net" so to speak... But I'm not sure that's possible yet. It would be nice to just see Phil, Bobby, Mickey and Bill jam a tune or two. Joan sounds good but I could deal without her stage antics. Bill & Mickey were solid as always. Phil and the Keys seemed to be turned down for most of the night. But that might have been because I was seated on the opposite side them. I never heard Phil clearly unitil TOO, and I never heard the Keys until Eyes.

I just got the CD of the show in the Mail by Munch mix and it sounds great!!!!!!! Great cryptical other one and Mr fantasy!!!

Hi Everyone,

I am a long time reader, first time poster. I was at this show and loved it. I like to have copies of every show that I have been to and decided to pre-order this show on June 19 form munckmix. According to their website, my cd's have yet to even ship and I get no response from them when I try to email them. Has anyone else had this problem?

Calling Staggerlee as a highlight of the show is pretty darn sad. That song was so over played in 1979 that it became the commonly accepted 1st set bathroom break song. And judging from the crowds in the loo at SPAC, I wasn't alone in that assessment.

Too bad.. you all missed a nice Stagger Lee. It had some good energy.

I was 9 years old in 1979, so your comment means nothing to me.

This show smoked. Much like the Dead.

very heady