#stagger lee

Song Review: Grateful Dead - “Stagger Lee” (Live, June 18, 1993)

There is a moment during the instrumental interlude of “Stagger Lee” that the Grateful Dead collectively spring to life, its six members, one, as ensemble playing sparks the collective.

What comes before - Jerry Garcia’s storytelling vocals - and after - a vocal refrain and outro solo - are also solid. But it’s that middle section that lifts this rendition.

It was June 18, 1993, in Chicago. And the “Stagger Lee” from that evening is now out as the latest in the Dead’s “All the Years Live” video series.

Given the more-enthralling versions out there, this “Stagger” may be most interesting for its visuals - the band appears strong and healthy at this late date and the Winston cigarettes ad in the stadium is a nod to the past - and for Vince Welnick’s liberal use of piano sounds on his synth rig.

Those things - plus that interlude.

Grade card: Grateful Dead - “Stagger Lee” (Live - 6/18/93) - B

Read Sound Bites’ previous “All the Years Live” coverage here.

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