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This show was the start of a continuing tradition of Neville Brothers guesting with the Dead around Mardi Gras time for bay area shows.



The first set is the Dead alone and totes some variation in the set-list with generally strong playing. The set ender Bird Song>Music>Might as Well is a rare combo and is played with conviction and concentration.



The second set is certainly more hit or miss. It starts off with a rarity. Drums to start the second set. Seems as if Neville drummers are sitting in with Rhythm Devils. We here one of the Neville's say "Ready when you are Billy", and with that, a kick-off to some quality drum jamming into Iko Iko.



The Iko is definitely disorganized. You can tell its completely unrehearsed and the Neville's version varies from the Dead's which causes complications. The Eyes that comes out of Iko has an unevenly fast-paced tempo and again, having not rehearsed it seems as if the Neville's presence was throwing off where the boys alone might have taken it.



An average post drums with a Notable "Hey Bo Diddley" as part of encore seems as if being there would have been exciting, but listening back is less rewarding.



For the BEST Neville/Dead collaboration, refer to 1987.7.6 Pittsburgh. No SBD of this show, but its an excellent AUD with some quality Calypso song selection that fares better as a collaboration than this night did.



Certainly worth the download for the Miller upgrade, the unique setlist and guest appearance, but as far as sheer performance quality, First set tromps second IMHO.



1st Set: 5 Stars

Second Set: 3 Stars

Upgrade/Transfer: 5 Stars = Solid 4 stars

- December 4, 2011Best transfer of a good show