GarciaLive Vol. 14: January 27th, 1986 - The Ritz

Like other similar live sets from Garcia and bassist John Kahn ("Lonesome Prison Blues", "Santa Cruz Blues", "Marin Veteran's Auditorium" come to mind) this (70 + minutes) show from '86 has some Dead tunes ("Friend of the Devil", "Dire Wolf", a lengthy "Bird Song", and others), Dylan songs ("When I Paint My Masterpiece", "Simple Twist Of Fate"), and favorites of Garcia ("Little Sadie", "Oh Babe It Ain't No Lie", "Spike Driver Blues"), all played to an excited crowd with both sets and an encore (a fairly lengthy "Goodnight Irene") included. The recording is very crisp and clean, sounding close-mic'd, with the musicians up front and center, with some appreciative audience noise especially between tunes. The two CD set with another show is sold out--too bad--as it should be made available for all those fans who would gladly purchase it.It's about time that GarciaLive (sic) has delved into Garcia's duo work, and with longtime friend /bassist John Kahn who rounds out the bottom end of things, he has the perfect foil for his stellar acoustic guitar work--Garcia is just on it--and plaintive sounding vocals. Each song is a stand alone gem--there's so much to enjoy throughout this entire show. Saying that, both "Little Sadie", "Friend of the Devil" are particularly good to my ears, as is "Run For The Roses", and "Dire Wolf". But the whole show is well worth adding too anyone's shelf who likes hearing Garcia away from his main gig.The disc snaps into a tray inside the wallet style cardboard package. There's a pocket for the 12 page booklet which has a five page essay, plus a track list, recording information, plus a two page b&w photo of the duo on stage and a color photo of Garcia on the back cover.A fine show. Get this.

Great album and great set.I have another similar album of theirs from the same year and it’s solid. This one is just as fine.If you’re not a fan this is a great way to dip into the simple acoustic sets of these twoIf you’re familiar, buy this for the little Sadie alone.

Greatest!!

A little rough out of the gate but settles into a nice even groove quickly. When I Paint My Masterpiece is an all time favorite and to hear this acoustic version is a welcome change. Jerry's voice shines on this throughout given the time period...definitely want to check out this JGB pick.

Very intimate great sound quality. Not much Garcia/Kahn stuff out there so this is a must have. Jerry plays well, not up to par when he played with Grisman, still a must have for Jerry fans!

I was surprised at how magically delightful this double album was when I first heard it. The entire package is quality. If you love Jerry and John this is a must have.

This is an excellent recording.

This is a fun little acoustic show from Jerry & his partner in crime, John Kahn!