I just wanted to comment and see what others thought....
I just finally got myself a copy of  There and Back Again
I  wanted to say that it exceeded what I thought it was going to be and I think Phil deserves alot of credit for putting together such a great band and continuing on. His playing is  different in a very good way, as well I have always liked Warren Haynes (what a great voice/player) and he really shines on this album. I hope to get a chance to see them when they come back around my way...
 - Tom

Well, since you asked ;
My reaction was the opposite; it was not what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a lot of improvisational passages; but the album is pretty much song oriented.  I was also looking for more stuff like Unbroken Chain, one of my favorites; but these songs aren't in the same style.  I played it through once and haven't pulled it off the shelf since.  The bonus live CD that came with the album on the other hand is indeed what I expected from these guys and I like it, and have played it, much more.  I guess you could say I'm a Jimmy Herring fan; I really like a lot of his playing on the Jazz Is Dead albums.  There and Back Again seems to me more of a Warren Haynes album.

Hi,
You are right in saying that it seems more like a Warren haynes album and that the tracks are song oriented... it took me a few listens to get into it. the songs might not be on the same level/style as Unbroken Chain but I dont see how they could be without the rest of the Dead.
What i thought was interesting was that it was more straight foward song wise. Im just not used to hearing Phil in that context and I liked it. I would think that in a live setting they would extend the improv and solos but again Ive never seen them live.
anyway .....

I also own this 2CD set, and I love it! Unfortunately Lesh' singing on the live disc isn't really good, but some great music altogether!
 
Wilfred

The next run of shows at the Warfield is supposed to be a mixed line-up. The Herring/Haynes era is probably done. Im not a huge fan of the T.A.B.A. album, but most of the tunes were excellent launching pads for some insane improv.... It's also worth noting that a couple of those songs made it into rotation the past two Dead summer tours...