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Grateful Dead Dancing Bears: The Story Behind Bear's Choice

The Grateful Dead has always been known for their eclectic sound and energetic live performances, but few fans know about the band's early days at the Fillmore East in New York City. Released in 1973, History of the Grateful Dead, Volume One (Bear's Choice) is a live album that showcases the band's bluesy roots and acoustic side. The album was recorded on February 13 and 14, 1970, during a period when the Grateful Dead were playing concerts with both electric and acoustic sets.

The story behind Bear's Choice begins in Europe, where the band had just completed a string of successful shows. Lead guitarist Jerry Garcia explained that the band gave away four discs instead of two to make their European '72 tour a triple LP. However, further volumes never came to be due to difficulties in releasing live archival recordings.

Despite this setback, the Grateful Dead continued to create music, and Bear's Choice was born as a tribute to Ron 'Pigpen' McKernan, the band's original keyboard player who died during the production of the release. Pigpen's soulful voice can be heard on three tracks in which he sings lead, including all of side two.

The album features 16 songs, including acoustic sets and electric jams. It was compiled by soundman Owsley 'Bear' Stanley, who chose his favorite tracks from the February 13 and 14 shows at the Fillmore East. The recordings were later released in 1973, three years after they were recorded.

Bear's Choice is often referred to as simply Bear's Choice, a nod to the band's soundman Owsley 'Bear' Stanley. The album peaked at number 60 on the Billboard 200 and was originally intended to be the first volume of a series. It offers concert highlights recorded February 13 at the Fillmore East in New York City, making it the Grateful Dead's fourth live album and ninth album overall.

The album is a testament to the band's ability to blend blues, rock, and folk music into their unique sound. The Grateful Dead's history is filled with stories of experimentation and innovation, and Bear's Choice is an essential part of that story. For fans of the Grateful Dead, this album is a must-listen, offering a glimpse into the band's early days and their evolution as one of the most beloved bands in rock music.

In conclusion, History of the Grateful Dead, Volume One (Bear's Choice) is more than just an album - it's a piece of history that showcases the band's bluesy roots and acoustic side. With its unique blend of electric and acoustic sets, Bear's Choice is a must-listen for fans of the Grateful Dead and anyone who loves rock music.

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