Of course, I am sure that you know that The Dead were originally a Bluegrass Band. Perhaps that may be the reason that their music resonated so well with the elderly people who had never heard them before, and had no real “Rock” background. Especially “Ripple” which sounds like a Folk-song or hymn.
Just a theory.
As far as a mini-bass is concerned, I can understand why the standard sized stand-up bass would be a problem. (I play electric). I believe there is a stand-up that is slightly smaller and more manageable, but not by much.
I call the Dead Americana
Not sure what the mini bass is that Doug wants.
Great guy. He can’t ride harleys no more cuz his feet just dust the ground now.
All the girls call him dougie poo LOL
He played big band in the day
I asked Doug last night, “do you know any one that can do lead vocals for my friends punk band? The bass players vocals are weak”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFF6WnzlBlg