For me, this version of I Need A Miracle demonstrates something I’ve heard Grateful Dead fans talk about, but never understood. I’ve heard it said that Weir had a habit of cutting short songs that Jerry obviously wanted to extend a bit longer. Now, certainly some of that is speculation by Deadheads. Did Garcia ever say as much in an interview? I’d be curious to know where. But regardless it’s something I had heard discussed at some point in the past.

I never really understood how folks knew this though. Well when listening to this version of I Need A Miracle I finally understood. Perhaps this actually isn’t a good example but it was a break through for me. Jerry sounds like he’s in the zone and just waiting to be given the green light to shred for a few measures, but the signal never comes and we’re left wondering what could have been instead of grabbing our skulls in amazement as we put our brains back inside their cranial homes.

A booming chord and squealing guitar lines kick off this number. Brent kicks in some B3 by the second verse. Winner winner, chicken dinner. Garcia seems to be practicing controlled ferocity. This song is a great chance to let loose and it seems like he’s biding his time, waiting for the right moment to strike. Phil swings during the vocal jam segment, and Jerry emerges from the breakdown a changed man. The coiled cobra no longer ready to strike, but rather slithering toward the next tune. Robbed of an opportunity perhaps? Ah… life with the Dead.

Complete Setlist 3/27/88

Previous I Need A Miracle DFAY Selections