You open a dusty, 50 year old bottle of wine, even one from a renowned vintage, and you’re never quite sure what you’re gonna to find. Many are flawed, likely to disappoint or, worse, leave a bad taste. A select few, however, remain prized nectar, full of body and flavor, crisp and deep, savory and sweet. In short, a timeless splendor. This December ‘73 night in Charlotte, NC is like one of those rare bottles of finely-aged wine. The band is in polished, late-tour form, and ready to gallop. The second set jam, starting with Truckin’, is a tightly-crafted joy ride, including a sparkling Eyes->Brokedown combo, strong second set China-Rider, and surprise Sugar Mag->Goin’ Down the Road->Sunshine Daydream sandwich. There are no exotic Seastones-era sound experiments, just an expertly played, high energy GD dance party that’s sure to bring a smile. Kudos to the Download Series selection team for this one, which Wine Spectator would no doubt put on its list of the year’s best. Pop the cork and savor every drop.
