Episode Summary: NES 024: THE COMPLETE BUDOKAN + Charlotte '78

Introduction

In episode NES 024 of the Jokermen Podcast, titled "THE COMPLETE BUDOKAN + Charlotte '78," hosts Steve, Ian, and Ellen embark on an in-depth exploration of Bob Dylan's pivotal 1978 performances. Released on December 13, 2024, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide to Dylan's Complete Budokan box set and the legendary Charlotte '78 show, offering fans a rich analysis of one of the most transformative periods in Dylan's career.

Context of the 1978 Bob Dylan Tour

The discussion begins with Ian setting the stage for the 1978 Bob Dylan tour, emphasizing its significance in Dylan's discography. "[00:35] Ian: And today it is. It's 1978, up in this bitch. We've got a beautiful hot rod of a rock and roll show on deck here." The hosts highlight the tour's dual nature, combining Dylan's classic hits with new, experimental renditions that reflect his personal and artistic struggles during this time.

Steve remarks on Dylan's appearance and energy, likening Ian's presentation to Eminem's from 1999. "[01:23] Steve: Can I just say, like you said up in this bitch at the beginning, and you weren't. And you're wearing, like, a white undershirt." This sets a playful tone as they dive into the deeper analysis of Dylan's state of mind and the tour's reception.

Analysis of Complete Budokan Box Set

Steve introduces the Complete Budokan 1978 box set, praising its extensive collection: "[07:04] Steve: It's going to be wild when we break this down because we actually have, like, the Budokan moment category." The hosts discuss how the box set, which includes every song from Dylan's Tokyo and Osaka performances, challenges the original negative perceptions of the Budokan album. Ellen notes, "[23:28] Ellen: The punishment zone. Like, the solitary," referring to the harsh critiques the original release faced.

They delve into standout tracks like "Girl from the North Country," showcasing the profound duet performance with Alan Pasqua: "[26:12] Ellen: It's here in spirit. There is a song that sounds like it." This version differs significantly from the original, offering a new emotional depth and highlighting Dylan's evolving artistry.

Deep Dive into Charlotte '78 Show

The conversation shifts to the Charlotte '78 show, celebrated as one of Dylan's best performances. Steve expresses excitement: "[03:33] Steve: It's going to be a December 10, 1978, at the old Charlotte Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina." The hosts praise the show's set list refinement and musical arrangements, noting how it surpasses the Budokan recordings in quality and execution.

Ellen highlights the band's expansive lineup, including Alan Pasqua on keyboards and Steve Douglas on horns, which gives the performance a lush, orchestral feel: "[48:05] Steve: It's such an indulged, I think as Bob ever gets as a like live performer." They discuss how Dylan's willingness to experiment with his classic songs in new formats made the Charlotte show a standout event.

Standout Performances and Moments

Several key performances are dissected in detail:

• “Senor (Tales of Yankee Power)”: Lauded for its epic delivery, Ian shares, "[56:34] Ian: It's incredible. It's fantastic."

• “It’s All Right Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)”: Ellen appreciates the showmanship and dynamic arrangement, stating, "[51:10] Ellen: It's pretty good stuff because it's like so completely blown out into the stratosphere with such commitment and pizzazz."

• “Tangled Up in Blue”: Ian praises the soulful interpretation and lyrical changes, considering it his all-time favorite live version: "[61:57] Ian: This is like my all time favorite version of Tangled up in Blue."

• “Changing of the Guards”: Exalted for its explosive energy, Steve comments, "[59:46] Steve: This is the best Dylan Live Signor I've ever heard. It just blows me away."

Impact and Legacy

Steve and Ian explore how the Complete Budokan box set and the Charlotte '78 show have redefined Dylan’s 1978 tour, countering earlier critical disdain and illustrating a period of artistic bravery. They discuss Dylan’s innovative approach to live performances, where he continuously reinvents his songs, setting a precedent for his neverending tour legacy: "[35:17] Steve: I think it's a personal thing."

Personal Preferences and Ratings

The hosts share their personal favorites, with Steve expressing profound admiration for the Charlotte '78 show despite some reservations about certain arrangements. Ian remains enthusiastic about the box set's revelations, while Ellen balances appreciation with critical observations on specific performances. Notable quotes include:

• Ian on Dylan’s search for validation: "[03:20] Ian: He's doing a little bit of a dance for the folks out there and trying to send them home happy, make them love him well."

• Steve on the transformation of Dylan’s songs: "[35:17] Steve: I definitely think it's a personal thing."

• Ellen on the emotional depth of performances: "[51:39] Ellen: He really sold me."

Wrap-up and Future Episodes

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts contemplate creating a "best of" episode, reflecting on their favorite shows from past discussions. They hint at upcoming episodes focusing on other artists and deep dives into previously covered material, promising continued exploration of Bob Dylan’s rich musical legacy: "[116:07] Steve: All right, well, we'll do that before the end of the year."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This episode serves as a vital resource for die-hard Dylan fans and newcomers alike, offering fresh perspectives on a controversial era of his career. By reevaluating the Complete Budokan box set and celebrating the Charlotte '78 show, the hosts provide a nuanced understanding of Dylan’s artistic evolution and enduring influence within the rock genre. As Steve aptly puts it, "[114:30] Steve: All the millions of Bob Dylan listeners... there's something worth coming back to here."

Listeners are encouraged to engage with the hosts’ insights and share their own favorites, ensuring a dynamic and ongoing conversation about Bob Dylan’s timeless music.

Notable Quotes:

• Ian: "He's looking for love... trying to send them home happy, make them love him well." ([03:20])

• Steve: "This is the best Dylan Live Signor I've ever heard. It just blows me away." ([59:46])

• Ellen: "He really sold me." ([51:39])

• Steve: "I definitely think it's a personal thing." ([35:17])

Key Timestamps:

• 00:35: Introduction to the 1978 Charlotte show.
• 03:20: Discussion on Dylan's state of mind during the tour.
• 26:12: Highlighting "Girl from the North Country."
• 48:05: Praise for the band's expansive lineup.
• 56:34: "Senor (Tales of Yankee Power)" performance.
• 59:46: "Changing of the Guards" analysis.
• 61:57: "Tangled Up in Blue" favorite live version.
• 114:30: Final thoughts on the significance of the box set and Charlotte show.

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