GarciaLive Volume Seven showcases the Jerry Garcia Band's November 8th, 1976 performance at Sophie’s in Palo Alto, California. The long-lost original master reels, recorded by Betty Cantor-Jackson, were recently re-discovered along with a trove of other reels dubbed the “Houseboat Tapes” and have been remastered for this release. It was the year of this recording that Donna Jean and Keith Godchaux first joined up with the Jerry Garcia Band. Their addition, along with Ron Tutt on drums and bassist John Kahn, helped form what would be one of the most durable lineups of the Garcia Band. Earlier that year Garcia commented, "I haven’t been as happy with any little performing group since Old & In The Way in terms of feeling ‘this is really harmonious, this is what I want to hear.'"
That harmonious vibe is especially present as well. Throughout the course of the evening, the band deftly melds gospel, rock, soul, and reggae to form their quintessential mid-70’s sound. As one astute critic pointed out, “More than any other Garcia band this one allows him room to run through all his guitar styles, often within a single song.” From the opening notes of “The Way You Do The Things You Do”, the band lock into a relaxed, but confident groove with Kahn & Tutt’s deep pocket providing the foundation for Jerry & Keith’s melodic exploration rounded out by Donna Jean’s soulful harmonies. The Hunter/Garcia penned “Mission in the Rain” and Dylan’s “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” are particularly poignant and soulful while songs like “Midnight Moonlight”, “Tore Up Over You” and “Ride Mighty High” provide the sparks bringing balance to the evening. A 22+ minute “Don’t Let Go” stands out not only for its length, but for its exercise in dynamics which further showcases Garcia’s comfort not only with the band, but the freedom found in playing smaller rooms tailor-made for they type of music he was looking to create.
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GarciaLive Volume Seven showcases the Jerry Garcia Band's November 8th, 1976 performance at Sophie’s in Palo Alto, California. The long-lost original master reels, recorded by Betty Cantor-Jackson, were recently re-discovered along with a trove of other reels dubbed the “Houseboat Tapes” and have been remastered for this release. It was the year of this recording that Donna Jean and Keith Godchaux first joined up with the Jerry Garcia Band. Their addition, along with Ron Tutt on drums and bassist John Kahn, helped form what would be one of the most durable lineups of the Garcia Band. Earlier that year Garcia commented, "I haven’t been as happy with any little performing group since Old & In The Way in terms of feeling ‘this is really harmonious, this is what I want to hear.'"
That harmonious vibe is especially present as well. Throughout the course of the evening, the band deftly melds gospel, rock, soul, and reggae to form their quintessential mid-70’s sound. As one astute critic pointed out, “More than any other Garcia band this one allows him room to run through all his guitar styles, often within a single song.” From the opening notes of “The Way You Do The Things You Do”, the band lock into a relaxed, but confident groove with Kahn & Tutt’s deep pocket providing the foundation for Jerry & Keith’s melodic exploration rounded out by Donna Jean’s soulful harmonies. The Hunter/Garcia penned “Mission in the Rain” and Dylan’s “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” are particularly poignant and soulful while songs like “Midnight Moonlight”, “Tore Up Over You” and “Ride Mighty High” provide the sparks bringing balance to the evening. A 22+ minute “Don’t Let Go” stands out not only for its length, but for its exercise in dynamics which further showcases Garcia’s comfort not only with the band, but the freedom found in playing smaller rooms tailor-made for they type of music he was looking to create.
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A wonderful release - the Keith and Donna shows with the JGB definitely have their flavors and they are both in great form here, as is Jerry. Highlights for me are After Midnight and Dont Let Go but every song has a little of that special sauce and a great relaxed exploratory vibe. Highly recommended
Britton Tolliver
September 18, 2020
This Volume ONE from 1976 is just so right on!!! DONT LET GO is just utterly amazing. MIDNIGHT MOONLIGHT is at a great pace!! I am really into this version of the JGB. Very smooth and seductive, and great recording. Perfect representation of “sway music “
JD
December 14, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed the show. Different kind of version of Knockin' on Heaven's Door (Reggae Beat), but the highlights for me are "Tore Up" and "Mission in the Rain". Jerry's solos are incredible. Its almost like you can hear the lyrics in his licks. Highly recommended.
charlie
December 12, 2017
I bought this set because it had some previously unreleased live tracks from a new venue and they are always the best listening and I was correct.
Don
December 4, 2017
I got this CD because it includes AFTER MIDNIGHT, Jerry and all the musicians he plays with exhibit that feeling of having cleared that last hurdle. Cosmic senses. Just want to pull out my telescope and get a better look. CLOUD NINE; I practically hear the strings of Jerry's guitar brining it life.
tschenck
November 21, 2017
This is an excellent show with plenty of highlights- with Who Was john being one of my faves. John Kahn's bass and Donna Jeans vocals are great, but Jerry's guitar playing is definitely right up there with some of his best work. Worth the price, I highly recommend!
Lizardo
November 21, 2017
Great show, hearing these songs then and what they became is really cool. Jerry always puts a smile on thy face. Thanks for the release. Keep them going!!! Peace Ref: Sophie's palo alto 11/8/76
cwmbran-city
November 7, 2017
What a gig, highlights are Knockin On Heaven's Door, Midnight Moonlight & Stop That Train. '76 & '77 were knockout years for JGB, anchored by Ronnie Tutt's licks & subtle showmanship, but Garcia's solos are up there with the very best. One of my favourite JGB gigs from a favourite years of shows, an immense listening experience. Thank-you for making available, sounds superb. In Britain & the cd was here in 5 days, so uber rapid delivery all cushion wrapped.
Grateful Ed
October 14, 2017
Fantastic Show...I've always been a Keith fan, and he is on top of his game on this one...