Though the music contained on Shining Star -- the latest release by the Jerry Garcia Band and the second two-disc set from the group in two months -- was recorded between 1989 and 1993, it is presented in such a way as to create a "new" concert. The seamlessness of the package is remarkable, and each track is first-rate, top-notch Garcia. Sure, there are a few missed notes and off-kilter vocals, but unlike Dont Let Go, these are not distractions that lead the listener away from the moment. As a result, Shining Star joins 1997s How Sweet It Is and the bands 1991 self-titled double disc as essential recordings for anyone interested in Garcias longstanding side project. Whats more -- each package is unique, without a single song repeated among the five albums. Thats quite an accomplishment, yielding an extensive series of music from the longest running rendition of JGB. And though its getting closer, it still isnt completely comprehensive of the collectives repertoire. So, which one of the three packages is the best? Undoubtedly its Shining Star. Here are just a few of the many highlights and reasons why: Shining Star: The title track glows with such radiant beauty as Garcias fluid guitar licks melt around the stately sounds of his backing band. Together they create a serene, yet passionate ode to love that is heartfelt and joyous. He Aint Give You None: Garcia pours his heart into the vocals on this Van Morrison cover -- a song that clearly connected with him on a very personal level. Theres a level of anger and pain in both his voice and his guitar playing that gives the song an extra edge and makes it one of the best tracks on any of the JGB releases. Russian Lullaby: This loosely flowing rumination on the classic Irving Berlin song finds bassist John Kahn in fine form, playing off Garcias shimmering lead and taking his own solo turn. The result is a part jazz, part blues rendition that combines a sense of sorrow with a sense of hopefulness, while remaining utterly blissful. Everybody Needs Somebody to Love: Here, the interplay between Garcia and keyboard player Melvin Seals is exquisite. The two musicians push each other to higher and higher heights as swirling organ collides with soaring guitar to give the song the same exultant energy that fueled the Grateful Deads Scarlet Begonias. Lets Spend the Night Together: JGBs version of this song is more relaxed and laid back than the original track by the Rolling Stones, but percussionist David Kemper propelled this rendition along at a perky pace and in the process took the band on quite a wild ride. Garcias ebullient guitar climbs into the stratosphere, using Seals pulsating rhythmic organ fills and Kahns funk-driven bass as support. When the Hunter Gets Captured by the Game: This is yet another ballad that Garcia makes his own. Though he didnt have the best voice in the business, he knew how to put his to good use. His expressive vocals perfectly reflect the pain and heartbreak of the lyrics with the craggy soulfulness of an old bluesman. Aint No Bread in the Breadbox: This version might be a tad slower than some performed by JGB, but it more than makes up for its lack of rapid intensity with its looser, free-flowing rhythm. The relaxed pace leaves much more room for the musicians to interact and allows them to truly drive this one home. By the time the band reaches the final chorus, the song is transformed into a full-force, gospel-rock number that is simply irresistible. Positively 4th Street: Who knows what angered Garcia so much on the night this was recorded, but Bob Dylans venomous lyrics are spewed from Garcias lips with total resentment. The result is a fiery rendition of this classic song that is both biting and majestic. The Maker: This take on Daniel Lanois epic song is unquestionably the highlight of this set. It defined the latter day incarnation of JGB and imbued the spirituality that one of Garcias concerts could instill in even the most passive of listeners. Though Bruce Hornsby is not credited as performing on this song, one would swear thats him on piano. This song (and this rendition) is sweet and beautiful, hauntingly tender, deeply soothing, irrefutably intoxicating, and oh, so powerful. Its as good as it gets, and after hearing it, its impossible not to miss Garcia even more.