Dick's Picks 12 review
Dick's
Picks 12 is most of the second set and the encores from two
nights of their summer 1974 tour, from June 26 at Providence, RI and
June 28 at Boston, MA. What is omitted is the "Ship of
Fools" and the "Me and My Uncle” from June 26; although,
"Ship of Fools" is represented from the June 28 show on
disc 3 as the encore.
The
first disc of Dick's Picks 12 begins with a little
"Jam" that leads into "China Cat Sunflower."
Then it is another four minutes of noodling before the singing
begins. With an introduction like this you know you are in for a
treat, but who knew it would be this delicious, well, maybe Phil? In
my opinion, this rendition of "China Cat Sunflower” > “I
Know You Rider" is one of the best they've ever done.
Between
the "China Cat Sunflower" and "I Know You Rider"
the CD is labeled "Mind Left Body Jam." This is
inaccurate, but the important thing is that Grateful Dead
Merchandising realized the interplay was special enough that it was
worthy of naming it, enough said. During the songs transition the
interplay is incredible with the whole band making significant
contributions. Bobby and Phil get things rolling. Jerry soon
takes over where he and Phil build a foundation. And not to be left
out Keith throws in his rolling piano runs in all the right places.
Perfect! They finally get around to playing "I Know You
Rider" and in brilliant fashion, Phil fans will not be
disappointed.
Next
up is "Truckin'." As the singing concludes and
they begin the instrumental Garcia peels off some guitar riffs of an
old Freddie
King Blues song, "Hide Away," a song they've
performed twice (An essay about
this classic blues song.) This leads to lots of interesting playing most
notable is "The Other One” > “Spanish Jam."
The
third disc of Dick's Picks 12 concludes the second set from
June 28 and there are many high moments. Perhaps the best part
is the "U.S. Blues" that includes some playing that is not
typical. The encore that night, "Ship Of Fools" is
one of the best versions I've heard thanks to Phil’s brilliant
bass lines.
DP12
is a must have top tier release. One only needs to play the
first song "China Cat Sunflower”
> “I Know You Rider" to deem this pick worthy; the
other two and a half discs are a bonus. by Barry
Small
©
Grade A +
