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The underwhelmingness of '98 is testimony to it however. While there were many great moments in '98 (see Prague), the year in general never generated the same level of excitement as '97 did. It couldn't. What goes up must come down. And as soon as you try to label and package something that begins organically ("cow-funk" you immediately lose it.
All I know is that the Fall of '13 they had IT, and last year, with the notable exception of 3-4 shows, they didn't. Now they have IT again.
If the boys in the band could find a way to bottle IT never lose it again, they would collectively give up all their material possessions to do so, but they can't. They are chasing it just as we are. And they're just as excited as us when they find it. It's pure joy.
I agree with your comment about the noodling, but I think rather than noodle they are just playing "without a net". The interpersonal aspect of the band itself is in safe place and they are okay with taking chances which were not safe to take in '09 or '10. This has been a progressive development we've seen happen before our eyes/ears. Enjoy it while it lasts. These things can't be controlled.
Next year we may be talking and debating about why it seems Trey "has lost interest" or "isn't focused". It's how these things go.