Reckoning
Grateful Dead · 1981
70 min · 15 tracks · psychedelic rock
A vibrant tapestry of acoustic melodies intertwines with heartfelt storytelling and improvisational flair.
Why this album works
'Reckoning' is significant as it reestablished the band's acoustic roots and received positive critical reception, solidifying their legacy in the folk rock revival of the early ‘80s. It also peaked at number 22 on the Billboard 200, demonstrating the band’s continued commercial viability despite changes in musical trends.
- Best for
- long, immersive listening sessions layered, dense sonic textures dynamic emotional journeys
- Context
- Released on April 1, 1981, 'Reckoning' is a live album that captures the Grateful Dead during a transitional period after their peak in the late 1970s. Following their acclaimed albums like 'From the Mars Hotel' and 'Terrapin Station', this album showcases their acoustic work amidst a growing emphasis on studio recordings and refined arrangements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Cher· Neil Young· Bruce Springsteen· Bob Dylan· Cyndi Lauper· Bon Jovi· Elvis Presley· Prince
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Dire Wolf 3:20
- 2 The Race Is On 2:57
- 3 It Must Have Been the Roses Standout 6:56
- 4 Dark Hollow 3:49
- 5 China Doll 5:22
- 6 Been All Around This World 4:32
- 7 Monkey and the Engineer 2:37
- 8 Jack‐A‐Roe 4:05
- 9 Deep Elem Blues 4:51
- 10 Cassidy 4:34
- 11 To Lay Me Down 8:59
- 12 Rosa Lee McFall 2:54
- 13 On the Road Again 3:16
- 14 Bird Song Standout 7:35
- 15 Ripple Standout 4:27
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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