Trouble No More?

So, are we bothering with this deluxe set?

Musically it was a pretty good period, and there are some songs I like, but for the most part it doesn't speak to me.

Am I wrong? will i be rewarded (on earth) if I shell out?

I bought the deluxe version once the price dropped below $130 on amazon. The previously unreleased outtakes, rehearsal takes, and soundchecks were somewhat interesting, but Dylan's live performances of the gospel songs during late '79 and early '80 are the real reason to get the deluxe version. There is a fire and passion in Dylan's live performances from this era that is sorely lacking on the official studio releases of Slow Train Coming and Saved, and Dylan put together a cracking live band to perform the gospel material including Fred Tacket on guitar, Jim Keltner on drums, and Spooner Oldham on keyboards, as well as the gospel backing singers. The 1980 Toronto show recordings on discs 5 and 6 were mixed from professionally recorded three-track masters, and the sound is a remarkable improvement from even the best of the previously circulating soundboard bootlegs. These two discs are my favorite of the whole set because they combine the passionate gospel delivery of Bob and the band with pristine sound quality that brings out the subtle nuances of the performances. The Earl's Court show from 1981 on the last two discs is nice to have, but I don't think I will be spinning that one nearly as often as the Live Toronto discs.

I have not yet watched the DVD, but have heard good reviews of it, and am looking forward to watching it.

Thanks for the tip. I probably will get it then...

Well, I ended up just getting the 2-cd version. Haven't listened to it yet, but if I love it maybe I'll go for the box.