All selections and text by Joe M.
“YEM” 12.28.93 II, Washington, DC
The first of many “Oh man, you really should have been there last night!” lot conversations. Some fiery work by Trey once the jam hits stride.
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“If I Could” 7.1.95 I, Mansfield, MA
I had this tape from the FM broadcast (RIP WBCN) in my car and played it exclusively for quite some time. Love this rendition which came early in the night.
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“Simple” 12.31.96 II, Boston, MA
Another WBCN tape that doubled my collection at the time. Not a noteworthy two-night stand in most people’s opinion. A highlight was night one when the sound went out and we couldn’t figure out if they were just fucking with us. This version of “Simple” is pretty compact but brings back fond memories of my beat up Toyota Corrola.
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“Timber (Jerry)” 11.28.97 II, Worcester, MA
My one and only time in the front row. Epic staring contests with Trey all night. This is the second set opener. Gets into a pretty dark place in the jam before coming back to the lyrics.
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“Maze > Shafty” 4.5.98 II, Providence, RI
My buddy’s first-show-going girlfriend dropped to the floor between us during the middle of this one. The lights and jam were a little too intense for her.
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“Piper > Dog Faced Boy” 12.8.99 II, Portland, ME
The night after everyone’s favorite CCCC ’99 jam [‘Halley’s Comet”]. General Admission in the whole building for those two nights. I have vivid memories of being really moved by “Dog Faced Boy” after an intense “Piper.”
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“Harry Hood” 7.6.00 II, Toronto, ON
In honor (honour) of the band’s return to Canada this summer.
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“Cool it Down” 7.29.03 I, Burgettstown, PA
A swanky take on the Velvet Underground cover.
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“Backwards Down the Number Line” 8.16.09 II, SPAC, NY
The second set opener from first summer tour closer of the return. Gets pretty far out. I wish they’d tack on an abstract jam to this tune again.
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“Undermind” 11.29.09 I, Portland, ME
Another song from ’09 and another one from Portland, ME? This ten tune thing isn’t as easy as Mr. Miner makes it look after all. Love the sonic freakout portion of this one though.
