WOW!, I've been excited for this show. I mean I was thrilled presenting the January launch focused on the 1960s, but the 1970s are when Phil really enters a whole new epoch in his playing. One could dub it 'bombs away,' but it's so much more than that.
As The Grateful Dead's playing became jazzier, Phil's did too, highlighting his unique ear, picking style, understanding of music theory and creativity. Plus, now he's been playing bass for 5 whole years, so he's an expert, right?
Today, I've got something from every year of the 70s; though I don't know I can fit it all in. I may just put the 79 material into the Brent onward show. What I've selected for today are songs or jams where:
1. Phil's playing is gorgeous (and pretty clearly audible);
2. he is utterly in charge;
3. he wrote the music and/or lyrics, and/or;
4. Phil sings (wink wink)
As stated last month, my aim with 'Believe It If You Need It', is to offer a comprehensive listen to the quality and expansiveness of Phil's work as a musician, composer, lyricist, and vocalist, across seven decades. But as before, be prepared for some disappointment. There's simply too much material, and ideas regarding their presentation, to squeeze it into about 7 1/2 hours, given that Phil has perhaps played more live concert time than anyone else (can we know this?). You can expect each broadcast to have a focus, maybe even foci.