5.8.77

I've listened to the 5.8.77 show numerous times because, as any Deadhead knows, it is largely considered the best show ever.  Many embrace this notion, but there are still those who reject this notion.  I embrace it and reject it simultaneously. 

Why it's great:  This show is great for numerous reasons.  It feels focused, unhurried, and the sound well-mixed.  Everyone brought their A-game to the vocals and the playing is quite tight.

Why it sucks:  Philosophies of the Dead which try to espouse that the Dead ascended until this show and then descended after it (in other words this is the pinnacle, or summit of the Dead's existence) do a real disservice to a vast and varied body of work.  For many, the mental checklist of what constitutes a great show is complete or nearly complete with 5.8.77.  For others, not so much.  It all depends on what you need or want to hear from Jerry and the gang.  Additionally, as many have said before, if you hold this up to the uninitiated as the consummate Dead experience; they may well hold the thought -- "Gee, if that's the best they can do, I'd hate to hear the worst!"  This is because at the end of the day, it is still our beautifully flawed Grateful Dead just doing what they do.  There are great moments in every era, every tour, every show, every song.  Perhaps 5.8.77 has what many would consider a preponderance of great moments; but so do a lot of Dead shows.