Estimated Prophet is my favorite middle period Grateful Dead song, which I basically consider to be anything post-1974 and pre-1986. It was written by Bob Weir and John Barlow, and it is the first track on the slick, heavily produced album, Terrapin Station.
I am in love with its quasi-reggae feel, its 7/4 groove, Bob's vocals (accompanied by Donna Jean in multi-track), and, of course, Jerry's new signature funky wah guitar sound and Phil's bass. Especially Phil's bass. Just zero in on it and be amazed by his harmony and timing.
Its first chorus starts with California preaching on the burning shore. Their shows in Cali always got loud cheers on that part. Like many Dead tunes, there are many religious/biblical references: prophets, angels, fire wheel burning, call down thunder. One of Bob's best tunes. A fascinating guy, if you have not seen the documentary about him called The Other One, I highly recommend it.
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