Meaning: The quote by Bill Kreutzmann, a renowned musician and one of the founding members of the Grateful Dead, provides insight into his perspective on working with different musicians. In this quote, Kreutzmann is comparing the experience of playing with certain musicians to that of a Grateful Dead cover band. He expresses a feeling of dissatisfaction with the level of openness and musical expression he experienced while playing with them. Specifically, he praises Steven, presumably a guitar player, for possessing the qualities he values in musicians.

Kreutzmann's analogy of comparing the musical experience to that of a Grateful Dead cover band is significant because it sheds light on his expectations and standards as a musician. The Grateful Dead, known for their improvisational approach to music and their ability to create unique, spontaneous musical journeys during their live performances, set a high bar for musical expression and openness. Therefore, when Kreutzmann alludes to a Grateful Dead cover band, he is likely referring to a situation where the musicians are replicating the music without capturing the essence of improvisation and openness that characterized the Grateful Dead's live performances.

The phrase "I didn't feel that they were opening up like they should" indicates that Kreutzmann values the ability of musicians to be open, expressive, and spontaneous in their musical interactions. This sentiment aligns with the improvisational ethos of the Grateful Dead, where the band members were known for their willingness to explore new musical territories and take creative risks during their performances. Kreutzmann's expectation of openness suggests that he seeks musicians who are not only technically proficient but also willing to engage in musical dialogue and exploration during their collaborations.

When Kreutzmann states, "with guitar players, Steven has what I like in guitar players," he offers praise for Steven's musical attributes. Although the quote does not provide specific details about what Kreutzmann admires in Steven's playing, it is evident that Steven possesses qualities that resonate with Kreutzmann's musical sensibilities. This part of the quote highlights the importance of personal connection and musical chemistry in collaborative settings. It also underscores the idea that musicians value specific qualities in their peers, whether it be their technical skills, creativity, or ability to connect on a deeper musical level.

Overall, Kreutzmann's quote provides valuable insights into his musical values and the qualities he appreciates in fellow musicians. It also offers a glimpse into the standards he holds for musical expression and openness, as well as the significance of personal connection and shared musical sensibilities in collaborative musical endeavors. By drawing parallels to the Grateful Dead's improvisational approach and praising specific attributes in Steven's playing, Kreutzmann's quote serves as a testament to the depth of musical interaction and the importance of finding like-minded collaborators in the pursuit of creating meaningful and authentic music.