In this anthology of previously published essays, articles, and book excerpts, Rocco (editor of The Doors Companion, Schirmer, 1997, and The Nirvana Companion, Schirmer, 1998) casts a wide net by including pieces either about or by people not usually connected to the Grateful Dead. Yet works by George Plimpton, Miles Davis, and novelist Robert Stone sit comfortably next to pieces from the mainstream press, band insiders, and fans. What could have been a scattered grab-bag instead illustrates how the Grateful Dead's permeating influence on popular culture is in turn a result of the wide variety of influences absorbed by the band. The pieces are divided into four loosely defined parts: Grateful Dead history and context, their influences and concert experiences, three interviews with band leader Jerry Garcia, and reflections on Garcia's, and the band's, passing. An important collection of commentary on perhaps the hardest to define of all rock groups; recommended for popular music collections.ÄLloyd Jansen, Stockton-San Joaquin Cty. P.L., CA Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.
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