As someone who saw their first Dead show in 1971, and taped a lot of shows from around 1980 on, I don't really have much to say about the current music except that to wonder why they did not ask John Kadelczek (sp?) of Dark Star Orchestra to play lead, instead of Trey Anastasio. The handwriting was on the wall as the entire run of spring/summer 95 shows was plagued by gatecrashers, unticketed parking lot thieves and scammers that also made the rounds of Phish tours. They had a great ride, but when it was over, they should have let it stay over.
I also see this as a nothing more than a money grab on their part. When the boys were in their touring prime they always maintained control of ticketing and kept the prices reasonable. In addition the Grateful Dead Store is pumping out huge amounts of product at unseemly prices. I guess the "Core Four" want to make sure their 401 (k) plans are well seeded. This long time fan is boycotting any and all exposure to it.