Jerry Garcia Band - After Midnight: Kean College, 2/28/80

Compiled from two back-to-back shows in Union, New Jersey, this historic live recording captures three CDs' worth of eclectic performances by the stripped-down quartet configuration of the JGB. Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter takes vocals on his compositions "Promontory Rider" and "Tiger Rose." Packed with key originals and plenty of covers, it's an essential snapshot of Jerry at his peak.

One of rock's true icons, Grateful Dead lead guitarist, vocalist, and goodwill ambassador Jerry Garcia pursued an eclectic array of folk, bluegrass, roots-rock, and R&B-influenced solo projects throughout his career. Recorded both solo and with the Jerry Garcia Band, his albums include a slew of classic covers and many songs that became an integral part of the Grateful Dead's live set. Album Description

I've Heard Better

I have been a Dead, particularly a Garcia fan since the 60's, but would never consider myself a "Deadhead". I think that all too often the ardent followers let their deadication get in the way of a reasonable assessment of the music. I bought this CD because I was in the mood for some Garcia solo work, something I often find more enjoyable than listening to the Dead. This particular album had good reviews, mostly from people who appear to be ardent Deadheads. It was primarily these reviews that led me to choose this CD above the many others in Garcia's catalog.

Maybe it was the back up band - too much synthesizer with tunes that would have been better served by a B-3. The liner notes made mention of having the opportunity to hear Garcia handling the rhythm as well as the lead guitars. Guess what? It doesn't work. Overall, it sounded thin.

This isn't said to take away from the many things that are enjoyable on this album. Garcia is in good voice, hitting his idiosyncratic style without the notes going sour. His guitar lines are melodic and fluid, ( but would have benefited from a more solid backing...see above). I would have liked to have seen some more Garcia original tunes included in the repertoire, but the covers were a good mix. While I enjoyed listening to all of the tunes, I found that "After Midnight / Eleanor Rigby Medley" was the only stand out.

So, I am happy with the album and it's had some frequent listening, yet I still can only give it four stars....and that is stretching things a bit. If you are an ardent Deadhead, hit the order button now. You will surely enjoy the results. But, if you aren't a fanatic and simply enjoy Garcia's music, you may want to take a pass on this one. There are better things in his catalog.
August 26, 2007

No Money for Koontz

I have spent thousands of dollars on Jerry and Dead shows, albums, etc. since my first Dead show in 1973.

I was about to purchase this item on Amazon when I saw the references to the Garcia Estate aka. Koontz.

I believe she is the antithesis of the Dead spirit and is only looking to make a buck. As a result, I pass on this purchase and will only buy through GDM - non Koontz profit. April 25, 2007

Not the best JGB

3 stars is way too harsh for this recording, but there are better JGB discs out there. I'd start with the 1991 double disc recordings, then I'd go back the Saunders/Garcia era. Check out the Legion of Mary vol. 1 from Rhino, or the old Keystone discs. The problem with these discs, is that it's all Garcia. It's Jerry jamming, with 3 other guys backing him up. There are great moments in it, but in my opinion there is just nothing too special about this show that warrants this release. February 26, 2007

Nice jammin'

I bought this based on how I liked another JGB cd (welcome to our world) and am pleased with the sounds on this one. Garcia shows his genius on these extended jams. I get an upbeat feeling while listening to this music. Even the synthesizer music, which is corny in the context of current synthetic sounds, adds to the groove. All three discs are great, especially if you are looking for some great guitar jamming sounds. If you like this one, I encourage you to take a look at the JGB's "Welcome to our world". June 30, 2006

wow.

i can't believe this is out on cd. i just stumbled across it today! my late husband and i had this on tape years and years ago. absolutely my favorite dead/jerry related show. but the one we had.. had masterpiece, dear prudence and russian lullaby on it. it's really too bad they didn't include those with this release and it's the reason i'm giving it four stars. i did however find the complete version at the jerry garcia store. the extra disc is included free and has the late show.. entitled "way after midnight." May 31, 2006

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