Anthem of the Sun (1971 Remix), pressed on vinyl, presents the Grateful Dead's experimental second album in its revised form—Phil Lesh's 1971 remix that attempted to better realize the band's original vision for the project. Originally released in 1968, Anthem represented the Dead's most ambitious studio work, blending live recordings with studio experimentation to create something that captured their improvisational approach while pushing beyond what live tapes could document. The 1971 remix became the definitive version, with Lesh fine-tuning the balance between live energy and studio manipulation.

Anthem of the Sun eschews traditional song structure for extended suites that shift between composed passages and free improvisation: "That's It for the Other One" moves through multiple movements and moods, "New Potato Caboose" blends vocal passages with abstract instrumental exploration, and "Alligator" builds from structured verses into wild improvised chaos. The production techniques—tape manipulation, overdubbing, speed changes, and the seamless blending of live and studio recordings—were revolutionary for 1968 and remain impressive decades later. Phil Lesh's 1971 remix improved clarity while maintaining the album's experimental edge.

What makes Anthem of the Sun essential in the Dead's catalog is how it represents their most adventurous studio work—the point where they attempted to capture improvisation through studio techniques rather than just recording live performances or crafting conventional songs. The album divided critics and fans but established the Dead's willingness to take risks. This 1971 remix vinyl pressing preserves Lesh's refined vision of the album.

Single LP vinyl. 1971 remix of 1968 album. Phil Lesh's definitive mix. Experimental studio work blending live and studio recordings.