Reckoning

This 1980 live acoustic collection may be off the beaten path, but it's a worthy addition for anyone who wants to explore the Dead's musical roots more thoroughly. Laced with folk, country, and bluegrass influences, Reckoning showcases Jerry Garcia's crisp acoustic flat picking as well as the band's warm vocal harmonies. Traditional blues and folk songs intermingle with an assortment of Dead originals, many of which are featured in reworked acoustic arrangements for the first time. For those familiar only with the intensity and endless groove of electric Dead, this pure, honest, heartfelt recording will be a revelation. --Marc Greilsamer