Don't Let Go

Don't Let Go

A particularly spry, nimble, and spacious incarnation of the Jerry Garcia Band is chronicled on this double-disc release, the first official CD release to present a JGB show in order and in its entirety. Recorded at San Francisco's Orpheum Theater on May 21, 1976, the band includes Garcia's Dead mates Keith and Donna Godchaux (on acoustic piano and vocals respectively) plus longtime bassist John Kahn and drummer Ron Tutt. It's one of the few Garcia ensembles to feature piano rather than organ, and everyone has plenty of room to maneuver here, as evidenced especially on a wonderfully funky, airy, slow-grooving "That's What Love Will Make You Do." Four of the cuts come from the then-recently released Reflections. Though many of these tunes remained staples of Garcia's repertoire for the rest of his life, there are a few gems that did not: the extended boogies on "After Midnight" and "Lonesome and a Long Way from Home," the Donna showcase on the blues chestnut "Strange Man," and the bonus cut, a romping "Mighty High" recorded four months later. Those fans familiar with only later versions of the JGB will be pleasantly surprised upon hearing this agile, streamlined crew at work. --Marc Greilsamer

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