Date: Thu, 4 Jan 1996 21:27:50 -0500
From: Moe Magid (Lovinmj23@AOL.COM)
Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 20
"Hello all Dylanheads. Don't you have lives???"
Sorry, guys, you'll have to excuse my wife. I just went up to kiss my
kids goodnight and that is her idea of funny. I guess she knew I was
getting ready to go down..........
"GUITARS KISSING & THE CONTEMPORARY FIX" 2CD (no label) complete
acoustic show (Bob Dylan) and electric show (Dylan & The Hawks)
from Manchester, UK Free Trade Hall 17 May 1966
Thump thumpthumpthump thumpthump thumpthump thumpthump...........
That sound you are hearing are collective jaws dropping all over the
world as this new double CD set is first thrust into the player and
Dylan is "in your living room"..... opening his acoustic set with "She
Belongs to Me" and closing six songs later w"Mr TMan". Far be it from
me to describe/comment on this legendary show, I'll leave that to
the experts. Suffice it to say that this first disk is everything we had
hoped for, and more, and I seriously doubt that whenever Sony gets
around to releasing it officially that they can improve on the sound
quality. It easily exceeds, in all sound categories, anything that has
preceded it. By the end of "Mr. Tambourine Man" you will be giving Jay
Leno a run for his money in the jaw department. Aces all around for
disk one - the acoustic set.
THUMPTHUMPTHUMPTHUMPTHUMP!!!!!!!!!!!!!. (loud ones, bones breaking....)
Caution: before playing disk two (the electric set with the Hawks),
please place a thick pillow (or two) beneath your already slackened
jaw, as it will indeed crash to the floor. As we all know, "Tell Me
Mama" opens things up and once again I reserve comment, other than
to say this sounds so good it is scary. If you've never taken notice of
this show before, you will now. Incredibly intense is the best I can
come up with. I a-b'd it with the "A Week in the Life" and the "Royal
Albert Hall" (for sound comparison) and there is no comparison. It
blows 'em both away. The pre-release hoopla about the master tape
source could very well be true, it's that good. The intro to "Baby,
Let me Follow You Down" is goosebump material and "Ballad of a Thin
Man" is from another world, it is frightening music (the good kind).
I believe all questions of what Bob said after the "Judas" comment
will be laid to rest after you hear this - to my ears it is clearly
"You're a liar........you're a fucking liar." All eight electric tracks
are amazing, and as I sit here listening to it all I can think of is
how great a live version of "She's Your Lover Now" would have been on
this set. Instead of pistol shots, the music that Dylan and the Hawks
created that night were cannon blasts never heard before, and possibly
not heard since that tour. I promised myself I would'nt ramble on, so
I'll end it with this - "Just get it and see for yourself. The sound is so
much improved it's like hearing a different show. The legendary status
is much deserved, IMO."
Simply and beautifully packaged in a glossy gatefold sleeve w/silkscreen
shot of BD on the front and back covers. Inner gatefold has a killer shot
of BD in a checked suit, and each disk is individually packaged with a sleeve
featuring a collage of Bob photos. Lastly, there is a fine little essay
written
by someone who obviously attended the show, ending with "....nobody ever
made a more ominous sound than BD & the Hawks in the mid 60's. It was total
menace, with no let up. Song followed song, the terrible intense wall of
sound
pushing further and further to the limits of sanity. It was magnificent."
John
Lennon said, "Rock & Roll, you should have been there." Don't I (we) wish.
Peace - Moe
Date: Fri, 5 Jan 1996 12:55:51 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP vol 20 addendum In the appraisal of "Guitars Kissing & the Contemporary Fix," I noted that the quality of it easily outdistanced such previous releases as "Royal Albert Hall 1966" (Swinging Pig) and "A Week in the Life of Bob Dylan" (Gold Standard). Let me add that while the "Guitars Kissing...." renders the "RAH 1966" CD expendable, it does no such thing to the other. The Gold Standard release also included 6 additional tracks from venues other than Manchester Free Trade Hall (Sheffield & Liverpool immediately come to mind), so that one is still a keeper. These additional 6 tracks are from soundboard sources and are in excellent quality. As for the acoustic set, the "Guitars Kiss...." also precludes the need for the Swingin' Pig release "Manchester Prayer" and any other previously released CDs featuring this material. There are several, I believe. When I have some time I'll try to put together a list of the expendables, unless someone else beats me to it. Peace - Moe
T-numbers inserted by Karl ErikDate: Mon, 8 Jan 1996 18:02:01 -0500 From: Moe Magid (Lovinmj23@AOL.COM) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES-1995 YEAR IN REVIEW For quality and quantity, the year of 19Dylan95 will be tough to beat here DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES. We can only hope that 1996 will bring us as many varied treasures. If the unofficial 1st release of 1996 ("Guitars Kissing & The Contemporary Fix") is any indication, this will be another year for the ages. Before we get too far into the new year, however, one look back on the past year is certainly warranted. If you're searching for a gem amongst all the fiberglass, there are many fine jewels to choose from. Here in THE DEEP, I feel these are the ones that truly shone in 1995 (the best of the best). JANUARY T-400 BLUE EYED BOSTON BOY 2CD Boston '94 (Razor's Edge) T-406 OUTSIDE THE EMPIRE 1CD EB outtakes (Wanted Man) FEBRUARY T-409 THE MAN THE MASTER 2CD San Remo, Italy July 1994 MARCH T-417 LOVE MINUS ZERO 2CD Cologne '94 soundboard T-425 DIGNITY 1CD compilation various outs, etc. T-431 THE HIDDEN TV SHOWS 1CD '76 video feeds (hey, I like it!) APRIL T-429 FLAGGIN' DOWN THE DOUBLE E'S 2CD Rolling Thunder MAY /JUNE T-441 BROADSIDE 1CD compilation 62-63 (nice to have on 1 disk) T-449 LIVE AT THE WAREHOUSE 2CD complete '76 New Orleans finally! JULY T-451 A MILLION FACES AT MY FEET 2CD Brussels 3/95 a perfect 10 audience! T-453 HARD TIMES IN MARSEILLE 2CD France 6/93 perfect board (IMO) T-456 ONE HAND WAVING FREE 2CD 4/95 Birmingham + killer filler AUGUST T-460 COMPLETELY UNPLUGGED 2CD (words can't describe) DISK OF THE YEAR T-461 NEW YORK CITY '94 2CD Roseland '94 astounding show T-463 BOB'S FULL HOUSE 2CD Brixton 3/31 + filler 3/29 Oh my!!!!! T-464 F*** THE PLAYLIST 2CD Brixton 3/30 + filler 3/29 Double oh my!!!!!! T-462 THE REAL SOUND 1CD Sept 1993 soundboard Vienna, VA SEPTEMBER T-466 SOUNDS INSIDE MY MIND 1CD Phoenix Festival 7/95 UK a great one! T-482 EMMETT GROGAN ACETATES 1CD Oh, that "MrTMan!!!!!!!!!!" OCTOBER T-475 AVIGNON 2CD entire show France 4/18/81 primo soundboard (or 7/25/81?) T-477 NORTH STAGE 1CD best quality Woodstock 1994 broadcast T-480 1965 REVISITED 14CD set for no other reason than the fact that they did it NOVEMBER T-492 YOU FIGURE IT OUT 1CD '88 NYC soundboard DECEMBER T-483 THE POET & THE PLAYERS 1CD NYC '74 soundboard - after a few more plays this one really shines T-001 GUIDED BY THE ETERNAL LIGHT 2CD Monterey, CA 1995 in glorious quality w/tremendous bonus tracks. A Hall of Famer!!!!!! T-004 HARD TO FIND 1CD excellent compilation of various released trax Honorable mention to all the various compilations on the Red Sky label, and to the T-396, 397, 398 CRITICS CHOICE series 1-6 on Wanted Man. If I've left any obvious ones out, please let everybody know about it. Also note that this list is simply the personal opinion of THE DEEP. There were many other fine ones in 1995 but I feel the above were the best of the best. Thanks for listening and here's to another great year beneath the waves. Peace - Moe
Date: Fri, 19 Jan 1996 09:01:49 +0500
From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL)
Subject: SneakDEEP Preview & Glaring Omission
I've been informed by someone from across the lonesome ocean that Razor's
Edge has finally coughed up two much-anticipated pieces: the Philly TLA
"Visions" show from 6/21 (w/filler from 6/22) and the '78 rehearsals. Advance
notices are positively glowing. One noted observer and chronicler of such
things opines (on the Philly release) that he can't imagine Dylan & Band
being better. Different, perhaps, but not better. Quality of the recording and
performance are said to be astounding. (Razor's Edge personnel are apparently
in need of a few English courses, however, as the title of the set reads
"The Pedlar (sic) Now Speaks." This error ranks up there with Wanted Man's
"Answer Me" CD, which identifies Tulsa as being in Texas, though below an
OFFICIAL Japanese release of "Layla, which identifies the artist as "ERIC
CRAPTON." I swear it!!!! :-) :-)
As for the '78 rehearsals ("Darkness at the Break of Noon"), quality is
said to be significantly better than previously available and the same
observer notes that the disk is very "addicting."
Another promising piece is "Rich for Poor," which is the complete circulating
tape of the satellite feed from Buffalo '86 w/TP & HBs.
All to come shortly in THE DEEP, along with another fine compilation
from Red Sky (20/20 Vision) and a compilation from Vegas May 95.
Lastly, a glaring omission from the DEEP YEAR IN REVIEW 1995 is:
PECO'S BLUES 1CD (Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid outtakes) almost perfect
quality and very enjoyable material
My apologies to those of you who find the above unfruitful, inappropriate
and AGAINST the spirit of what Mr. Bob tries to convey with his music. Those
in this category please use the down arrow let me pass.
Peace - Moe
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 1996 10:47:11 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 22(?) As of 9:30 EST, RSweener has received 1,984 e-mails from people (and 12 monkeys) wanting to purchase his lone copy of "Guitars Kissing and the Contemporary Fix." Rumor has it that one overzealous fan, upon hearing it had been sold within a millisecond of his posting, had burgled Rick's home and made off with it, thereby leaving 1,983 pathetic souls sitting transfixed in front of their PCs awaiting an e-mail that will never come. Granted, this edition of THE DEEP will not rid the 1,983 of their worried blues, but..... "20/20 VISION" 2CD Red Sky (1016/17) 1989 & 1991 compilation Another fine compilation from the Dylan-only label and one that easily takes the cake for most eclectic track listing. 30 tracks in all (16 for 1989 and 14 for 1991) with over 152 minutes of music from 13 different venues. Sound quality is consistent thoughout and ranges from excellent to very good, which is quite surprising considering the number of sources - suffice it to say that Red Sky has very good tape connections. There are no less than 15 cover tunes, many of which I'm sure Bob has played only a few times (if that many), and several originals that receive infrequent airings. The tracks are so eclectic and interesting I feel I'd be doing an injustice by not listing them, so here goes (with brief commentary on some, *means exceptional IMO): 1989 AndItStonedMe(Van) TomorrowLong Time* Tears ofRage ImInTheMoodForLove (really cool) EMorningRain InthePines HarderTheyCome (lame) BabyLetMeFollowYouDown (acoustic and a pure delight-highlight of the set for me) QueenJane* RankStrangers YouDontKnowMe WhenDidULeaveHeaven* PeggyO LegendinMyTime Visions (less than 4 min and rushed) 1991: HomewardBound(play this loud to rile your neighbors - it's rough!!) LakesofPontchar* TrailBuffalo BabyBlue* 20/20Vision FriendofDevil Confidential Masterpiece Hattie OneTooManyMornings(oh, yeah) RovingGambler (superb) OneIrishRover(another highlight) SimpleTwist As you can see, the mix of trax is wide and even the ones that don't work are at least interesting. High marks for this set and, to reiterate, sound quality is consistently good throughout. "THE DAY I SAVED THE PLANET AT THE HARD ROCK HOTEL" 1CD (DIYE58) Las Vegas, NV May 12/13, 1995 Another misstep from oft-times "lame" label DIYE (Diamonds in Your Ear) which attempts to merge two nights into one show. Someone forgot to tell them, though, that you can't fit one Dylan show onto 1CD and if you are going to do a compilation it is best to include songs that are somewhat unique, not the ones played at every show. So what do we get: Crash,Just LikeWoman,Silvio,TBlues,ThinMan,MrTMan/Silvio. Having said that, they do at least include the rarely-played-in-95 GatesofEden/LayLady Lay/DontThinkTwice/RealYouatLast. Having Gates and LayLady does not salvage the disk, however, as the quality is only marginally good (a little echoey and flat although very listenable), resulting in a less than worthwhile set, IMO. Take a pass, it's simply average, though not a total waste of time. Peace - Moe
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 1996 12:28:12 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH...vol 22 addendum One more thing on "20/20 Vision" - for those who are not familiar with BD live material circa 1989 and 1991, be forewarned. It is a far cry from the polish and sheen, so to speak, of BD live circa 1994 and 1995. The voice is rougher and the arrangements are not as tight. Basically, the sound is less refined and it would seem that BD was not investing as much care then as now. This does not detract from the attractiveness of the set, it is just to caution those who are intrigued by the track list and are not aware of the differences in "sound" between then and now. If '95 could be characterized as "sugar and spice," then 88-92 would be "rocks and gravel" (or "ragged and dirty"). Peace - Moe
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 1996 12:46:07 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 23 For CD lovers, now is the time for your smiles. While late fall was a famine of sorts, winterlong has brought a virtual feast of titles to choose from. 1996 started off wonderfully w/ the excellent Monterey soundboard on Tuff Bites and a recent deluge of new releases indicates that 1996 may be as fruitful as 1995, both in terms of quality and quantity. Two titles in particular maintain the high standards of the Tuff Bites double, so w/out further ado...... "THE PEDLAR NOW SPEAKS" 2CD (RazEdge) Philly TLA 6/21/95 + filler 6/22/95 Razor's Edge finally gives birth to the most eagerly awaited title of '95 after a particularly long and grueling pregnancy. First rumored over 3 months ago, it has been well worth the wait and then some. Let me go out on a limb and say that all things considered (recording and performance), this release is the best representation of what BD&Band sound like live. Quality of the recordings is superb and the performances are, well, words can't describe. It's like trying to describe one of Michael Jordan's best games - they are all so good but when he takes it to another level you are left speechless. Many will hear this and find their mouths agape with awe...others who were lucky enough to be there will know what to expect. You get the feeling that even BD himself "felt it" on these nights as he pulled out never and/or not-oft played Visions, GirlFrom NC, LicenseToKill (radical new epic arrangement), IfNotForYou, NeverGonnaBe TheSame (very moving), Unbelievable, and a "to-die-for" Knockin'. Not to mention the (IMO) definitive acoustic Tangled and a momentous MostLikely. No less impressive are the rest of the trax: Flood,Watchtower,Silvio, MrTMan,GodKnows,RainyDay. ALL tracks are a wonder to behold and things don't end there, either. The bonus trax from 6/22 sustain the heights attained the previous night: Shelter, Masters, an amazing and definitive WhatGoodAmI (I played it 5 times in a row), an incredibly loud and energetic CatsintheWell, MyBackPages and LARS. The only negative I can pin on this one is that you might want to slightly EQ the treble up and the bass down. Do yourself a favor & get it. Bob described it best that night with "Unbelievable." He himself knew it was something special. (Footnote for all you English language freaks : "Pedlar" is spelled "peddler" on the disks themselves) "DARKNESS AT THE BREAK OF NOON" 1CD (REdge) 1978 Tour rehearsals The term rehearsal has a bad connotation and sometimes justifiably so. In the case of this CD, don't let it sway you. This CD presents the complete circulating studio "rehearsals" from 1978 in improved (outstanding) quality but these "play" out more like studio outtakes. They are not rough run-throughs but fully realized, polished versions with (in several cases) radically reworked lyrics (IfYouSeeHer and TheMan InMe in particular). For my money, these performances are exceptional and superior to the performances on Budokan. The sound is less busy and if I had to describe it I'd say it falls somewhere between "Street Legal" and Budokan. Dylan's vocals are exceptionally sharp and the arrangements are very enjoyable (major kudos to the piano-laden Tomorrow is a Long Time and a very fine It's Alright Ma & IDon'tBelieveYou (2x)). Tracks are as follows: 1/30/78 - BabyTonight,Times,IfYouSeeHer**,ManinMe**, DontBelieveYou,TomorrowisLongTime**,BigGirlNow**,Knockin',It'sAlrightMa, ForeverYoung. 2/1/78 - RepossessionBlues**(great vocal by BD),OneofUsMust, GirlFromNC. April '78: WeBetterTalkThisOver, CominFromtheHeart***,Twist ofFate,IfYouSeeHer,IDontBelieveYou. A very enjoyable and unique set w/ several rare trax and even rarer arrangements which add up to another "must-have" from Razor's Edge. Peace - Moe
Date: Thu, 1 Feb 1996 12:39:07 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: '78 Rundown Alternates/Observations After repeated listenings to the improved '78 Rundown sessions (Razor's Edge "Darkness at the Break of Noon") I can't say enough about how enjoyable this material is. Very interesting arrangements, all with either a real blues or jazz feel to them (the guitar playing is outstanding, especially on "Repossession Blues" and the gritty "I'll be Your Baby Tonite). There is also a wonderful "Girl From the North Country" w/ a gorgeous sax solo (Steve Douglas?) and a raucous "It's Alright Ma." As mentioned earlier in the DEEP, "If You See Her...." and "The Man in Me" are takes w/drastic lyric differences to their released counterparts. In both cases, the reworked lyrics and unique arrangements serve to make them different songs altogether. Changes in "If You See Her, Say Hello" ..although our situation, it hurt me to the bone She's better off with someone else And I'm better off alone... ...if she's wonderin' what I'm doin' right now Just tell her you don't know.... ...if she's passing back this way Most likely I'll be gone But if I'm not just let her go It's best that she stay gone Changes to "The Man in Me" The man in me will do, nearly anything And as for conversation whatever you wanna bring.. Lost on the river - of no return I try to make it to you But I'm afraid my heart will burn... I can't believe it, I can't believe it's true I'm lyin' next to her but I'm thinkin' of you I know you got a husband And that's a fact But, oh baby, either turn me loose Or cover my track.... The female backup vocals on the above tune are outstanding. Back to "Repossession Blues" - the most straightforward blues tune Dylan ever wrote????????? Last thought - this stuff is so good that I don't think anyone would be disappointed if it was released as part of a future Bootleg Series. Peace - Moe
Date: Tue, 30 Jan 1996 14:48:44 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 24 Fifteen minutes until a meeting on the surface so I'll attempt to hold out down here in the DEEP and assess another before then..... "ROSELAND" 2CD (Wanted Man 66/67) Roseland Ballroom, NY City 18 Oct 94 Something about NYCity must bring out the best in Dylan, as the 3-night stand in October of 1994 attests. Red Sky previously brought us an excellent show from the 19th w/bonus trax from the 20th, and here the generally hit-or-miss Dylan label Wanted Man presents the entire show from the 18th, and what a show it was. Another exceptional performance from BD & Band w/several rarely played tunes popping up: BeYourBabyTonight, LongBlackCoat, TearsofRage, BackPages, Knockin' - all of which stand out for me, especialy the intense TearsofRage and heartfelt BackPages. Special mention to Bucky for his work on Baby Tonite. A usual acoustic set of MrTMan, Masters & DontThink2x is, needless to say, impeccably performed (no other band can sound like this) and Dylan is in fine voice throughout, investing much in his delivery and phrasing. IfYouSeeHer also is worthy of special mention. Quality is pretty good but ascends into the very good level with a little up-treble EQ'ing (I don't normally like to do this but with some live CDs it is necessary - particularly with this one. For some reason when this one was EQ'd it really improved it - much more punch and crispness while still sounding natural. The sound is there and just needs to be brought out. Maybe my stereo just sucks and if you have a good one you won't need to). All in all a good set which could have been better w/ a few bonus trax - after all, total time runs just over 110, leaving 40 or so wasted minutes. Where is your head, Wanted Man? I recommend it, though, as the show was truly exceptional. Gotta go - Moe
Date: Wed, 31 Jan 1996 15:24:08 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 25 Several more Wanted Men, some you'll want and others that want to be wanted but may have only limited appeal. These are all from 1988-1992, the era of the roaring buffalo, where many a-show was hit or miss and the performances ranged from the ridiculous to the sublime. I'll briefly pick these apart as they all have their flaws but also their charms..... "BEACON BLUES AGAIN" 1CD (Wanted Man) Beacon Theater NYC Oct 10-13, 1989 A 14-track compilation from the 1988 Beacon residency presented in decent but not excellent quality. A well chosen selection of tracks, including some rarely played NET tunes: PreciousMemories, DeadMan,Manof Peace,MostOfTheTime, RealYouatLast. All tracks are of the electric variety, remainder of which include RememberYou, LotToLaugh, WhatGood AmI, QueenJane, EvIsBroken, Masters, SimpleTwist, MemphisBlues, LARS. Some careless editing between tracks destroys any continuity that may have been had, and there's no way of ID'ing the trax since Wanted Man has chosen not to list the dates for each. Performances are standard for electric '89 material, i.e. nothing earth shattering, although it's interesting to hear PMemories, DeadMan and RealYou. All in all a rather average set exhibiting an all too common trait of Wanted Man releases - carelessness and lack of information. At least the disk is full. "CRITICS CHOICE VOL 7" (Wanted Man) August/Sept 1988 compilation An eclectic selection of "rare" tracks from the dates above, however, once again Wanted Man has chosen to provide incomplete info and gives only the dates but no cities. Check your Krosgaard, folks (Aug 2-8 and Sep 3). Quality of the 12 tracks (60 minutes - continuing a WM bad habit of not fillin' em up) is pretty consistent throughout and for the most part is very good. Some vintage performances are included here, such as Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" and J. Cash "Big River", plus an Alec Wilder tune "I'llBeAround." Also interesting is a fine Don'tThinkTwice right into Knockin', rockin "DriftinTooFarFromShore" and another rare but enjoyable tune entitled "We Three." Remainder of trax inc/SheBelongs, PillBoxHat, really nice Shelter, TrailofBuffalo, ImInTheMoodForLove and a hurried "Visions." I'd give this disk high marks for creativity and track selection but low marks for lack of info and the fact that 15 more minutes are available. Recommended (and COULDA been a real winner) Gotta Go (to be continued) - Moe
Date: Wed, 21 Feb 1996 14:31:47 +0500
From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL)
Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 26
Distressing news from abroad that Luxembourg (home to several major
unofficial labels) is no longer looking the other way in terms of
CD manufacturing, putting a hold on some major projects from our friends
at Yellow Dog/Cat, Vigatone, etc etc. Add to this news of a recent seizure
of 65,000 disks elsewhere in Europe and it appears that things are
tightening up all over, not just here in the US. Things remain difficult
here at home in terms of getting product in, as ICE quotes one source
abroad as saying that "manufacturing for the US market has ceased." ICE
also lists several other labels who have things "on hold," with releases
in the works but no firm street dates. It remains to be seen what the
long term effects will be on the underground industry but it is safe to
assume that with disks more difficult to manufacture in Europe the flow
will be somewhat reduced, at least until things calm down. In any case,
some have been waiting in the wings for an assessment:
"FRIEND OF THE DEVIL" 2CD (Wanted Man 64/65) Compilation from Aug/Sept
1992 six night stand at THE ORPHEUM, Minneapolis, MN
Dylan played 50 songs during this stint and a nice selection of 22 are
presented here in decent but (all too common for Wanted Man) not
outstanding quality (perhaps they should leave the compilations to
Red Sky). The disks are certainly very listenable and contain some
outstanding perfromances, however, separation is not a strong point
and the sound does not have the crispness/clarity that distinguishes
most Red Sky releases (actually, for the best compilation of 1992 you
should seek out "The Warfield" 2CD set from Flashback). On the plus side,
Dylan's vocals shine bright and the track selections make this a
worthwhile and unified set - highlights include a slooooooooooow "It
Takes a Lot to Laugh," "Visions" (can't touch the '95 version), "EGOS"
"I&I" and "Hard Rain." Remainder: EvIsBroken/FriendOfDevil/Watchtower/
RedSky/JustLikeWoman/BelieveInYou/BabyTonight/HollisBrown/Ramona(sweet)/
BabyBlue/IfNotForYou/IdiotWind/LennyB/ToBeAloneWithYou/WhatGoodAmI/
Hwy61/ItAintMebabe. Although a compilation, it's put together like a
regular show. Lukewarm recommendation.
"RICH FOR POOR" 2CD (Rambling Cowboy) Buffalo, NY 4 July 86 w/TP&HBs
plus bonus track "Thanks God" Chabod Telethon, SF, CA 1986
The complete circulating tape from the satellite feed broadcast w/18
songs by Bob and 8 by TP&HBs, plus the bonus track. Quality is excellent,
particularly sharp on the acoustic numbers, which for my money were the
highlights of the BD/TP&HB pairing. A typical show for '86 w/particularly
energetic versions of CleanCutKid/Mastersofwar/WhentheNightComesFalling
featuring the ever-tasty leads of Mike Campbell & the keyboards of Benmont
Tench. Not everyone's favorite tour (it seems) but more than cursory
listens will reveal some great vocal performances by BD on standards (for
this tour) WeHaditAll/OneTooManyMornings/IForgotMoreThanYoullEverKnow/
Lonesome Town/AcrosstheBorderline. A killer HardRain also graces this set,
along with BandoftheHand. Remaining:SoLongGoodLuck/Pos4thSt/Emotionally/
TrustYourself/Ramona/ThinMan/12&35/RealYouatLast (smokin'). Nice package,
too w/color glossy photos, black disks. Recommended (along with "Lonesome
Town" 1&2 and "There is a Land of Broken Dreams") as a keepsake from '86.
"LOUD & STRONG" 2CD (White Rabbit WR3/4) Monterey (Laguna Seca Daze) 5/95
soundboard, R&R HofFame performance, 4 tracks May/June '95
A strong second effort from the ones who brought us the fine Dublin '95
double awhile ago, despite the fact that the Monterey portion was
previously released on Tuff Bites "Guided by the Eternal Light." Quality
here is identical, see a previous DEEP for review of this performance,
which by the way was outstanding (so if "Guided" eludes you this will do
for the Monterey board). Also included here is the complete R&R HoF
performance previously available on "Forever Young" (and also reviewed in a
previous DEEP)and presented in just as good quality here. The 4 bonus trax
are outstanding in all respects: PledgingMyTime(Berkeley 5/25), 5
Believers (Warfield SF 5/22), Queen Jane (Warfield SF 5/23) and Tom
Thumb's (Spokane 6/7). An outstanding set, well thought out and boils
2 batches of birds guts with one cook, AND then seasons the mix with the
4 bonuses mentioned above. Highly recommended.
Upcoming releases include Red Sky compilations from '78 and '86, and
another Roseland '94, this one from the 20th (never released in its
entirety). ICE also made mention of rehearsals from the '92 Tribute
concert in the works.
Peace - Moe
Date: Thu, 29 Feb 1996 09:10:41 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 27 The rumor mill is cooking with news that Razor's Edge will "soon" be releasing the Ft. Lauderdale '95 Edge show. Oh, boy! Let's hope the gestation period for this release is akin to that of a giant African bullfrog and not an elephant. The pessimist in me would guess the pachyderm route, as I've heard talk that the (2) tapes they are mastering from have gone back to be remastered again. Woe woe....... Other major news: on the street from Moonlight is the previously reported "Never Ending Tour Rehearsals" from 1989. Have'nt seen it but the track listing is intriguing: Not Fade Away & Everyday from Buddy are 2 of the tracks and the recording quality is reportedly outstanding. No surprise, as Moonlight has never failed to deliver. Now for the Ying Yang doodle........ "ALL ALONG THE ROSELAND" 2CD (YingYang) Roseland, NYC 10/20/95 + 3 bonus I'll dispense with the superlatives for now and cut to the chase - this set is a killer. The third and last night of the Roseland triad and, IMO, the best. Recording quality is outstanding, surpassing even the phenomenal Red Sky "NY City 1994" from 10/18, and Dylan's performance runs the gamut from tender caress to gut kick, per usual. "Last night stands" in the Big Apple are always special, it seems. A rather unusual set list adds to the enjoyability factor - Jokerman into a beautiful If YouSeeHer (with some gorgeous pedal steel from Bucky), AATW, classic SimpleTwist, hohum glad you finally lost this one Tangled, slowed down yet pointed & precise 4thStreet leads into a great acoustic set - fast paced MamaYouBin, always welcome Hattie and lovely Boots. The usual 10th spot of GodKnows kicks into the rarely played Joey and the performance is fantastic - hard hitting, screaming vocals - the band sizzles on this one. A "keeping the energy high" Maggie follows and leads into another phenomenal MostLikely (much different than the one 2 nights earlier and different still to the one 2 weeks prior in Boston) that the band really stretches out on. BD softens things up w/his BackPages, providing a marvelous vocal (later topped at Unplugged) atop a rendition that truly reveals how versatile (and special) this band is. Neil and Bruce come out for raucous versions of 12&35 and Hwy61 to close the deal. Clear and upfront vocals, distinct sound separation, great performance - can't ask for more than that. Bonus trax also rise above - Tears of Rage (no date given other than Fall '94) is given perhaps a "best ever" live treatment and the quality is excellent. LeopardSkin from '93 features Neil Young and a Senor from fall '94 wraps things up nicely. The liner notes quote the maker as saying: "This is the last fucking bootleg I will ever do (hopefully)!" Hopefully not. Peace - Moe
Date: Mon, 1 Apr 1996 09:41:11 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 28 Missed 'ya-Been awhile-Glad to be back. We need to play a little catch up, 'specially with a new tour startin' 'n all. Before we hit it, I got the perfect opening song for the new tour - "Down Along the Cove." Of course, "From A Buick Six" would'nt be bad, either. Enough with the speculating....but before we begin a few points need to be made: 1) I'm 100% behind this list and its "rules" and respect the right of the owners to run the list as they see fit, 2) the purpose of THE DEEP is to give you an idea of what's available and how desirable it may be (my opinion) in terms of sound quality, etc. Hopefully, it will help you in making an informed decision on what to buy/not to buy. Items reviewed in THE DEEP *ARE NOT FOR SALE.* This has been a HWY61-L public service announcement brought to you by Moe :-) "CRITICS CHOICE VOL 8" 1CD (Wanted Man) various locations 9/88-6/89 12 tracks recorded between the dates identified above presented in acceptable and occasionally very good quality. A few choice rarities, highlights of which are an acoustic "I Don't Believe You," "Confidential to Me," a first ever "Congratulations," "Wagoner's Lad" and "My Dear La La." In acceptable but not great quality you have "115th Dream" and "With God On Our Side," "Subterranean HSBlues," Hollis Brown" and "In the Garden." Last 2 cuts are a very enjoyable "Lonesome Town" and ordinary "In the Garden." The disk clocks in at only 55 minutes, a continuing problem for too many Wanted Man disks. Mediocre - a mild recomendation. "NEVER ENDING TOUR REHEARSALS" 2CD (Moonlight) May 1989 studio rehearsals (Note: Following review courtesy of The Famous Etiquette Book - PT) "A previously uncirculated rehearsal tape supposedly from May '89. A curious beast in that it's not a typical NET rehearsal session. The backing band has a strong country flavor to it, there's a violin and a harmonica player in there and the drumming does not sound at all like C.Parker's rock drumming but has a jauntier, country feel to it. Three of the vocals are taken by a female vocalist (not Emmylou Harris as credited). It sounds suggestive of an "Oh Mercy" audition session, although on the other hand there does seem to be a hard core rockier element to it. "Shelter" sounds very much like the way BD was performing it in concert, which would suggest the touring band was present but with some additional "country fills" around the edges (Kenny Aaronson mentions this session in an interview). It's possible that a session of tour rehearsals finished off w/an extended jam session w/visiting musicians but somehow, despite the apparent lack of preparation on BDs part, the backing band seems reasonably cohesive, suggesting they may have been practicing already. All this is pure speculation and all the more fun for it. No doubt some Sherlock Holmes will eventually track down the exact details w/pinpoint accuracy." "Recording quality is excellent though not up to studio soundboard standards, suggesting it was probably recorded on a portable with some switching off and on between tracks." All in all a very enjoyable disk w/some fascinating moments. The set list is so eclectic I'd be remiss not to post it (95 minutes total): Unknown/ISBeReleased/MakingBelieve/EarlyMornRain/ShotOfLove/GiveMyLoveToRose/ ManGaveNames/LonesomeWhistleBlues/female:BothSidesNow-TooFarGone-California Blues/ShotofLove/Jam/LittleQueenofSpades/ImNotSupposedToCare/NotFadeAway & Everyday (B.Holly)/WhenDidULeaveHeaven/EverybodyMovin'/IllRememberYou/ ThinMan/PeaceInTheValley/ShelterFromStorm/MostLikelyGoYourWay/TomThumb's/ TomorrowIsALongTime/Silvio Peace - Moe
Date: Mon, 1 Apr 1996 10:37:12 +0500
From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL)
Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 29
Back so soon? Yep, still a few stragglers from the past month and
I'll try to make it short & sweet.
"STOP CRYING" 1CD (Red Sky) Universal Amphitheater, Calif. 2 June 78
16 tracks from the concert (plus "Simple Twist" from a few days later,
someone ID'd June 7, I think) presented in what I consider to be the best
quality of any unofficial '78 show to date. Recording quality is excellent,
with great separation and full frontal vocals. A fine selection of tracks
and a strong performance from Mr. Bob adds up to a real keeper. The "I
Want You" is to die for! If you're into this tour you'll love this disk.
If you're not, you still might. I do :-) Pity it's not the whole show.
BabyStop Crying/MrTMan/Shelter/Love-0/Tangled/ThinMan/RollingStone/One
MoreCup/Blowin'/IWantYou/Senor/JustLike/SimpleTwist/OhSister/Watchtower/
AllIReallyWannaDo/ItsAlrightMa
"COME BABY ROCK ME" 1CD (Red Sky) Forum-LA 8/3/86, Buffalo-NY 7/4/86
Incomplete soundboard recordings from 2 sources in very good quality.
Being unfamiliar w/the Forum soundboard (9 songs)I can't say whether it
is the complete circulating tape or not (help, please). Quality, again,
is very good-especially strong performances of RealYouAtLast/Borderline/
Blowin/Knockin/Uranium Rock. The "I&I" is from Red Rocks 7-26-86. The
disk is filled out with 7 selections from the Buffalo satellite feed,
previously available (and reviewed) in it's entirety on "Rich for Poor."
Can't figure out the point of this compilation, really. Not a bad sampler
if you want a single disk from '86, but other sets have presented a more
representative sampling of the '86 tour.
Peace - Moe
Date: Wed, 3 Apr 1996 09:29:38 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 30 We're done playing catch-up as these 3 bad boys get things "DEEP to date......." "FRIENDS & OTHER STRANGERS" 1CD (Moontunes) Last Waltz Rough Mix 11/25/76 Dylan's complete set at the Last Waltz, which included a delightful "Hazel" not issued as part of the official release. This mono soundboard is a tad below what you'd consider excellent but the naked rawness and rough-edged feel more than make up for it. Funny they decided to exclude "Hazel", as Dylan's opening number of "Baby Let Me Follow You Down" segues right into it nicely, the last note of "Baby" virtually becoming the first notes of "Hazel." Can't wait to check the editing on the official CD. Also included is the 'missing' verse from "Forever Young." According to Mr. Townsend, the official release "suffered" from considerable overdubbing - no such problem here. Remainder of Dylan's classic (albeit short) performance inc/I Don't Believe You and "Baby Let Me Follow You Down" reprise (so to speak). "I Shall be Released" is here also as a group effort and a fine one at that. The complete sets of Van Morrison, Neil Young and Joni Mitchell are included, and a HUGE bonus is the unissued "Acadian Driftwood" by the Band, featuring some very "rough sounding" verses from Richard Manuel. Another highlight is Clapton's "All Our Past Times." Nice job, safe to say this is more "true sounding" than the official release. "SUMMER NIGHTS" 2CD (QR) RFK, Washington, DC 6/25/95 show + (6) from 6/24 Something tells me Mr. Bob *knew* this would be the last show he'd ever play w/Jerry, for he and the Band played like there would be no tomorrow. The whole of the 25th is presented here in excellent quality, with crisp clarity and separation and vocals right up front. The performance is nothing short of tremendous from "Drifter's" right on through to Garcia guesting on "Lot to Laugh" and "12&35." Inbetween, the highlights are many, notably an awesone acoustic set of MAMA YOU BIN, DESOLATION ROW & ONE TOO MANY MORNINGS that is sheer bliss. For my money, the DRow could be the best live version ever and Bob's vocals on all 3 are truly sublime. In addition, they do a rarely played and raucous "Watching the River Flow" and a killer "What Good Am I." Other highlights include "Simple Twist" and "LARS." This show deserves its special recognition as a highlight of '95. As for the PA/audience tape issue, I'd have to say it's an audience tape miked very close to the stage but high above the crowd. Bonus trax from the 24th also are excellent: PledgingMyTime/GirlFromNCountry/DontThink2x/ GodKnows/Joey/Knockin'. Nice job by QR, a real keeper. "BOB & JERRY" 3CD (BAJ 1) 25 Jun 95 RFK show, 16 Nov 1980 Warfield, SF An attempt to package Jery's 1st and last appearances with Bob in one set. The RFK show is the same one reviewed above, so all I'll add is that the quality here is even better, the sound being a tad crisper and brighter on the high ends w/a bit less of an audience recording feel. Sounds more like a PA although I'm still not convinced but hey, who cares. Again, I'd think a boom mike high above the audience and close to the stage. The other half presents the whole show from the Warfield 11/16/80, Jerry's first guest appearance w/Bob. It's an average audience recording with the sound a bit hollow and flat, though listenable. Being that the PREVIOUS nights show is available as an excellent soundboard recording (with many of the same songs) on FAREWELL BLOOMFIELD, I don't think this will see much time in my player, especially considering that half of THIS show is available as a soundboard source on "DEEP BLUE SEA" in damned good quality and includes all of Garcia's guest slot. Still, a nice document to have and the only place to get the '80 show in its entirety. Once again, too, the RFK is special. Peace - Moe
Date: Wed, 3 Apr 1996 13:26:08 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 31 I lied. This one brings us deep-to-date.....THE DEEP is expected to be on hiatus for awhile as not much is rumored on the horizon. Sure would be nice to get some of those fall shows, though, in case anyone who makes those decisions happens to be reading this..... :-) "AUTOBAHN REVISITED" 1CD (Zimmerman Records) compilation Germany July '95* A fine 11 track compilation with some nice selections from 3 shows in Germany, plus a "ringer" from Prague on 13 March. The "ringer" is a stunning version of "License to Kill," which is worth the price of admission. Dylan sings this with such understated elegance and beauty that it is truly breathtaking. I am not exaggerating. I expect the next version of Paul Williams "Performing Artist" series on Dylan will have no less than an entire page on this one performance. It is that good - he does'nt really sing it as much as he caresses it. And the quality is outstanding. Recording quality throughout is excellent, actually, as are the renditions of some rarely played tunes - QueenJane/PledgingMy Time/GirlFromtheNCountry/Obviously5Believers/MyBackPages. Strong upfront vocals and consistent clarity belie the fact that these trax are from different gigs. Remaining trax (and no less impressive) are DriftersEsc/ IWantYou/Silvio/Tangled/Knockin'. A strong 1st time effort from the Zimmerman label, here's hoping they put together a part 2 w/the other rarely played treasures from the Autobahn gigs, of which there were many. Highly recommended release. Peace - Moe (with mouth still agape after hearing that "License to Kill")
Newsgroups: rec.music.dylan
Date: Thu, 23 May 1996 13:01:59 +0500
Sender: The Bob Dylan Discussion List (HWY61-L@UBVM.cc.buffalo.edu)
From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL)
Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 32
Felt almost like 1930's prohibition here down under, what with the
staggering dearth of non-Sony releases to surface in the past several
months. The rumor mill is rife with grist, however, so I hope this is
the beginning of a long and steady procession of DEEPs....
"WOLFTRAP" 1CD (Moonlight - ML9630) 21 Jul 91, Wolf Trap, Vienna, VA
Tracks: 13 Time: 65 Source: Soundboard (Deaf-Aid)
The complete circulating tape in exceptional quality and considerably
better quality than the previous Wolf Trap boards from 1993. The clear,
upfront vocals, excellent separation and well-balanced nature of this
recording makes it a real pleasure to listen to (the source tape was
presumably recorded through a headphone-soundboard device which Wolf Trap
offers to people who are hearing impaired). IMO, some exceptional
performances here but also a few which BD hurries through like he's gotta
catch a cab, not to mention the fact that I cannot recall a show w/so many
of BDs infamous "flubbed" lines.
Still, IMO, it adds to the "charming" nature of a show w/some nice, clear
vocals and good & raunchy guitar playing. Highlights include a smooth
sounding IDontBelieveYou, funky GottaServeSomebody, rockin' WiggleWiggle
and bluesy LottoLaugh. An exquisite BarbaraAllen leads an acoustic set of
MrTMan, BabyBlue, & ItAintMeBabe - some nice acoustic work on all four but
not nearly as tasteful and precise as the amazing acoustic explorations of
the last several years. My, how he has improved his playing. A "can't sound
anymore like Johnny Cash's band than this" FolsomPrisonBlues wraps things up
nicely. One forgotten highlight in the #7 slot is IRememberYou. Remaining
tracks: NewMorning w/a 2minute guitar/harp intro, Shelter, Watchtower.
To sum, the sound is great in all aspects - upfront, balanced and
well separated. Very nice color cover w/tasty graphics, several other fine
color pics on insert and back cover. Very likable disk and highly recommended.
Peace - Moe
Date: Fri, 7 Jun 1996 14:11:19 +0500
From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL)
Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 33
Several of the "most wanted" still remain pending but a real exclusive
just slipped through:
"EXCLUSIVE SERIES '94" 1CD (ES 002) Compilation - Europe 16-25 July 1994
Tracks: 11 Time: 78 minutes Sources: Audience
Some Dylan compilations don't quite measure up (i.e. some Wanted Man's)
for a number of reasons - disparity in quality, misguided track selection,
short disks - they have a feel of being thrown together to meet a deadline.
The ones that do measure up have a feel of being put together by someone
who really appreciates the music. This disk falls strongly into the latter
category. The quality is consistently excellent on all eleven tracks, quite
amazing considering that 5 shows are represented, and care was given to
select tracks for both "rarity of play" and performance quality (however
subjective that may be). IMO, Dylan and the Band are at the top of their
game on all these tracks, turning even the 2 questionable selections,
JOKERMAN & JLAW (Halle 7/23), into something special. Of particular note
are the following performances: a monumental rendition of "BLOWIN" in
amazing quality (Prague 7/16), superb "LOVE -0" and "I SHALL BE RELEASED"
(Halle 7/23), and the 2 killers, a 10 minute "HEAVEN's DOOR" w/a great
harp intro and the line "Ma wipe this blood from my eyes, can't see through
it anymore, getting harder and harder to see the new sunrise, feel like
I'm....) and a gorgeous, knockout version of (my favorite :-)) "ONE TOO
MANY MORNINGS" (both from Gotha 7/24). No less impressive are the rarely
heard "DISEASE OF CONCEIT", "MAN IN LONG BLACK COAT" (Kiel 7/25), "EVERY
GRAIN OF SAND" and "MR T MAN" (Dresden 7/21).
Already stated, the quality is EXCELLENT, as are the color photos
gracing the package and the classy looking clear tray w/the pic and track
listing behind the disk. I understand ES 001 will be out soon, which is
the "Exclusive Series 95." I'm sure it will be no less impressive that 002,
and we can only hope for additional volumes to come from our friends at
ES.
Moe
Date: Wed, 3 Jul 1996 09:12:22 +0500 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 34 A trio of releases to assess today, among them 2 winners and 1 big loser. The drought appears over, as 3 OTHER titles are on the street (see separate DEEP post) and no less than 5 others in the latter stages of gestation. We can only hope for some '96's to start spewing forth soon, too... "EXCLUSIVE SERIES '95" 1CD (ES-003) Various Locations 1995 Time: 75:00+ Sources: Audience/TV B'Casts Quality: VG+/Excellent The second in the exclusive series (where's ES001?) following the excellent "ES '94" (ES002). Once again, the quality here is outstanding throughout, despite the wide variety of venues (6 diff for the audience recordings). The inclusion of the complete and sublime Frank Tribute performance of "Restless Farewell" makes this disk worth owning, but there are other killer performances as well. These include IShallBeReleased (Glachau 7/7), LennyBruce (Berlin 7/4 9:00+), WhereTeardropsFall (Manchester 4/3), Queen Jane (Frisco 5/23), and a brilliant Masterpiece and AlabamaGetaway from (Bloomington 10/26). Nice performances but questionable inclusions are a slow Jokerman (Frisco 5/23) and a ho-hum IfNotForYou (Hamburg 7/2). The only negative of this disk is that the last 2 trax are from the R&R HOF gig - Watchtower & ForeverYoung. As fine as they are, they can be found on at least 3 other releases - ES would have done better to provide us w/2 other rarely played trax in their place. On a positive note, I found the quality of these surpassed what was out there already. I would be remiss to not mention the front color cover - Dylan looks like Bela Lugosi's "Dracula" with a towel over his head, his fist covering his mouth and a look of sheer terror on his face. An incredible photo - will the cameraman please step forward. Overall, a nice set and, although not as "killer" as "ES '94," highly recommended. Ooooh, that "Restless Farewell." "DYLAN PLAYS DEAD" 1CD (Razor's Edge-RAZ 022) Meadowlands, NJ 12 Jul 87 Time: 60+ (approximate) Source: SoundBoard Quality: VG I'll make this short and sweet. IMO, this show blows. Dylan's performance is lame, tired, boring and full of as much enthusiasm as a post-lobotomy victim. He does'nt sound good and the Dead are no better. The sound quality, for a soundboard source, is just pretty good. What could have been the best track, "TIMES," has the beginning cut. I'm not a Dead-hater, either, this show just turns me off. The best thing I can say about the quality of the performance on this CD is that it has a great color cover :-). Tracks:STrain,MemphisBlues,TomorrowLongTime,HWY61,BabyBlue,ThinMan,JBrown, WickedMessenger,QueenJane,Chimes,Joey,Watchtower,Times. For Dylan & Dead shows, much better is the JFK Philly show from 10 July, available on the 1CD set "MEN OF PEACE" - a much stronger performance, IMO better track selection AND better quality. Peace - Moe Note: the views expressed in THE DEEP are strictly mine. Flames/comments are always welcome. Disks reviewed here are not available for sale.
Wed, 3 Jul 1996 09:28:54 +0500 On the street but yet to arrive are: RING THEM BELLS - 1CD of "Oh Mercy" outtakes. Same track listing as "Deeds of Mercy" w.t.e.o. additional takes of "Everything is Broken" and "Ring Them Bells" and w/out "What Was It..." and the 3 takes of "Series of..." (also missing one other track I can't recall). Quality unknown at present. THE UNRELEASED LIVE ALBUM - 1CD compilation of tracks of Dylan&Dead from Foxboro, Philly, Portland, NJ and Anaheim. Said to include a "Silvio" outtake also. (What's the point of this? Sounds like a waste of a CD). (Note: Both the above are on the Moonlight label) HARD TO FIND II - 1CD Based on the track listing, not nearly as compelling as volume 1. All live tracks taken from various sources, I'm told. Includes 3 trax from R&C promo, a couple from "Hard to Handle" and the rest rarely played audience cuts like "St Augustine." Does include "RFarewell" '95. Moe
Date: Wed, 3 Jul 1996 13:39:51 +0500
Sender: The Bob Dylan Discussion List (HWY61-L@UBVM.cc.buffalo.edu)
From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL)
Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 35 (long)
Lines: 45
"DANCING IN THE DARK" 2CD (Moonlight ML9632/33) Rehearsals 1987, Exact
Date/Location Unknown, + Toronto, April 1980 filler tracks (6)
Time: 58:00+, 63:00+ Source: Soundboards Quality: Excellent
A mysterious surprise of a 2-CD set containing a motley crew of tracks
recorded at an unknown rehearsal in '87(?) w/a band that is not the Dead
or the Heartbreakers. Anyone who can fill us in on dates/locations/who
are these guys? Rainman has just informed me that if these rehearsals
have circulated, they have done so in limited circles, as he has no clue.
The quality is excellent w/great separation, full sound and Dylan's vocals
loud and clear. Unlike the last set of rehearsals ("The Never Ending Tour
Rehearsals," 2CD Moonlight) to surface, the quality here is much better
and the tracks are more fully realized/less fragmented than those. Although
not as "outtakey"(?) sounding as the "Darkness At the Edge of Noon"
rehearsal sessions from '78, these tracks also play more like outs than
rough rehearsals. Of the 20 tracks included, there are only 3 instrument-
als (Dancing w/slight vocals, Leopard Skin Pill Box and Joey). The "Joey"
is very cool, with the band playing out a funky groove before
fading out. Of the 17 remaining tracks, 16 are fully realized "takes,"
with only DeadMan an abbreviated 1:30 before abruptly ending. Lyrical
differences abound, including HeartOfMine, BigGirlNow and a great Shelter
FromStorm. The band infuses all the tracks with a bluesy, rockin' sound -
they are no slouches and you can feel Dylan being driven by them - this is
no normal, sloppy rehearsal. WHO ARE THOSE GUYS????? Keep reading, the best
is yet to come - some rare tracks include 6DaysontheRoad, a great song
called CarryingMyCross(trad), SuzieQ!!, very nice BigGirlNow, unusual
AllIReallyWantToDo, killer LeopardSkin (2), DeadMan, EverybodysMovin,
and the 2 high points of this collection, IMO - a song called EASY (author
noted as Robinson) w/a great chorus/tagline (hey, I'm not a music critic)
that Dylan sinks his teeth into and an amazing TrailoftheBuffalo w/an
ominous accordion in the lead and a scary Bob vocal - listen to the end
line where he sings "...let the desert(sun?) bleach his bones" that ranks
up there with the best BUFFALOES (even the Gleason home tape :-)). 'Tis
not all the pleasures, either - superb HeartofMine, pounding Joey, IllBe
YourBabyTonite, rockin' FolsomPrison and it all ends w/a ragged but
energetic Shelter. As I said, not your normal rehearsal - this one will
garner repeated plays. A fine sounding band, IMO and nice "performances"
all around. Alright John Bauldie, MKrosgaard or Clinton, who are these
guys and when did all this go down?
Six bonus trax from (I believe Toronto 4/80)seem out of place but it's
better than nothing (or more Dead tunes)-ServeSomebody, CovWoman, WakeUp,
PrecAngel, SlowTrain, SolidRock - all in what seems like lesser quality
than the excellent "Solid Rock" 2CD set of the whole show.
Packaging is better than average w/nice color photos throughout. Highly
recommended and we need some answers, experts.
Peace - Moe
Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 36 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Date: Mon, 22 Jul 1996 15:37:25 +0500 The first DEEP since the authorities put the worm in the 2 Big Apple establishments finds three worthy additions here beneath the waves. Sadly, that leaves only 4 on the "up and coming list." More on those another time........ "RING THEM BELLS" 1CD (Moonlight ML 9635) OH MERCY outtakes March 1989 Time: 61:00+ Source: Studio outs Trax: 16 Quality: Outstanding Moonlight continues a nice run of high quality pieces with a fine collection of the "new" OH MERCY outtakes tape, which I'm told has been in circulation about a year. To my ears, "RTB" sounds a couple of generations better than DEEDS of MERCY (DOM), with virtually no hiss and a less "bass-heavy" sound than "DOM." It also sounds a lot more punchy and clear, IMO (Rainman also says it is a corrected speed). As good as "DOM" is, "RTB" is appreciably better. Be forewarned, though, that this collection does not supercede "DOM," i.e. it is not the same tape. "RTB" does not include the 3 takes of "Series of Dreams" or the take of "WhatWasItYouWanted." It does, however, have ADDITIONAL versions of "ShootingStar,"Political World" and 2 abbreviated versions of "RingThemBells." It was quite a disappointment when both of these "tapped" out abruptly about 00:01:30 into each take but such is the nature of outtakes. I believe the rest of "RTB" (God Knows 1&2, What Good AmI, MostofTime 1&2, EverythingIsBroken, BornInTime, Dignity, DiseaseOfConceit) mirror "DOM," albeit in better quality. If I'm wrong about this or anything else above, please correct me-somebody. All in all, an excellent and very worthwhile collection of outtakes, most of which are drastically different lyrically and musically from their released counterparts. Essential listening and highly recommended. "ALL HALLOWS EVE & MORE" 2CD (Midnight Beat MB CD079/80) Live in NYC at Philharmonic Hall 31 Oct 64 /WBAI-FM Radio(Broadside), NYC, May 62 Times: 63:00+, 53:00+ Sources: Soundboard/FM Tracks: 18 live '64, 3 FM + 3 interview segments from '62 radio show Quality: Excellent A major release by Midnight Beat that, IMO, improves upon all of the previous CD releases of this legendary show. The quintessential Dylan concert up to that point in time and as important to 1964 as the Manchester broadcast is to 1965 or "Guitars Kissing" to 1966. The sound is much smoother, fuller and has more "punch" than previous CDs I've heard of this show, which were characterized by a flat, tinny sound. This one is pristine, with Dylan's voice more natural and the the guitar/harmonica eliciting a much richer tone. Since everyone has this show in one format or another (RIGHT?), no need to list the tracks. All I'll say about the show is that it is Dylan at his early best - humorous, charming and witty in-between songs and strong, confident and defiant during them. He sounds great, and the 3 duets he does w/Joan Baez are a delight (especially when his phrasing (deliberately?) screws her up during "MamaYouBin"). This is a must have no matter how you look at it and a real joy to listen to. As a bonus, you get the WBAI-FM "Broadside" radio show from '62 in superb quality, w/3 entertaining interview segments and 3 early gems: Ballad of Donald White, Death of Emmitt Till and Blowin'InTheWind w/Gil Turner, Pete Seeger & Sis Cunningham. The double-jewel packaging is superb, w/ a classy black and gold color scheme and vintage Bob&Joan b&w photos on the cover, in the booklet and gracing the actual CDs, which look phenomenal. Best thing is, they sound as ggod as they look. Essential listening for everyone. "LAGUNA BEACH" 2CD (MB CD 067/68) Monterey 5/27/95, R&R HOF 9/2/95 +1 Times: 63+, 61+ Source: Soundboard/TV/Audience Quality: excellent Another presentation of the Monterey soundboard previously reviewed in THE DEEP under "Guided By The Eternal Light" and "Loud & Strong," the latter of which also covered the R&R HOF tracks. See these reviews for a detailed analysis, all we will say here is that the quality is excellent throughout, although I did'nt give it a full listen. The assumption is that the quality remains consistent throughout and is on par with the previous releases of this same material. In other words, if you want this material (& it IS well worth it) then this is not a bad set to get. If you already have "Loud & Strong," pass on it. The bonus track after the R&R HOF is from Brixton, 30 Mar 95, "I Shall be Released" w/Costello. A highly recommended set if you don't already have it elsewhere on CD.
Subject: DEEP BENEATH THE WAVES vol 37 From: MOE (dsc9bam@IMC210.MED.NAVY.MIL) Date: Fri, 9 Aug 1996 08:30:02 +0500 Don't worry, no prose today. Just a couple of stragglers - one dead and another All Hallows under another name. To wit: "THE UNRELEASED LIVE ALBUM" 1CD (Moonlight ML 9636) BDylan & GDead various sources July 1987 + 1 Tracks: 10 Time: 56'+ Sources: Soundboard/Studio Quality: Very Very good Coming on the heels of the ultimate snoozefest "Dylan Plays Dead" on Razor's Edge, needless to say I was not very excited about this one. After giving it a few spins, though, I was pleasantly surprised. The nine live tracks here were supposedly the Dead's choices for the live album - only 3 of the nine selections made it (& w/out a Krosgaard handy I can't tell you whether the 3 are the same performances from the official release). All nine selections are very enjoyable and performed well by both Bob & the Dead, IMO. Seems the Dead took care in selecting only good performances - hey, there's only one track from the sorry-ass Meadowlands gig of 12 July!! Sound quality is almost excellent, IMO, just below the "Man of Peace" JFK Philly show in terms of quality. Tracks and venues for those interested: FOXBORO 4 July - JohnBrown, SlowTrain, Joey / EUGENE 19 July - FrankieLee&Judas Priest, RainyDay12&35, QueenJane, BabyBlue / ANAHEIM 26 July - ChimesofFreedom / JERSEY M'LANDS 12 July - TheWickedMessenger. An added bonus track is an outtake of Silvio from "DownInTheGroove," with slight lyrical differences (nothing major) and what sounds to me like more female harmony vocals replacing Bob & Jerry. Of course,I neglected to compare it to the studio cut and since its been awhile since I've played it the above observations may be off, so forgive me. Anyway, if you like your Dylan w/more than a dash of Dead, this set will sate your appetite. "IT'S ALRIGHT" 2CD (no label) Japanese release 10/31/64 NYC Philharmonic Time: 100'+ total Tracks: 20 Source: Soundboard Quality: Exc See DEEP 36 for a full review of "All Hallows Eve & More," this being the same show & same tracks (minus the bonuses). Very possible that the "All Hallows.." set was cloned from "It's Alright," the sound quality on each being very similar. In a nutshell: classic '64 show, as important to '64 as the Manchester b'cast CDs are to '65 or "Guitars Kissing" is to '66. If you don't have it, get it. This rare Japanese set may prove elusive, however, if it is within your grasp and you have yet to secure "All Hallows....," by all means snatch it up. You won't regret it. Best - Moe