Meaning: The quote you provided is from Phil Lesh, a musician best known as a founding member of the Grateful Dead. In this quote, Lesh is reflecting on the changing music landscape in the 1990s and how it impacted the format and quality of live performances. Let's delve deeper into the context and meaning of this quote.

During the 1990s, the music industry underwent significant changes, with advancements in technology, shifts in popular music genres, and the emergence of new forms of entertainment. These changes had a profound impact on live performances and the experiences that artists and audiences shared.

Lesh's use of the phrase "locked in to that kind of format" suggests a sense of confinement or limitation imposed by the prevailing norms and expectations of live music performances during that time. It reflects a sentiment that the structure and expectations surrounding live shows had become rigid and less conducive to the spontaneous and "magical" experiences that were more prevalent in earlier years.

The reference to "magical shows that were just magic all the way through" speaks to the transcendent and immersive nature of exceptional live performances. Lesh seems to be lamenting the decline in the frequency of such remarkable and transformative experiences in the live music scene as the '90s progressed.

This quote also provides insight into Lesh's perspective on the evolution of live music during this period. As a seasoned musician with a deep understanding of the live performance dynamic, Lesh's observation carries weight and offers a valuable perspective on the changing landscape of live music.

It's important to consider the broader context of the '90s music scene when interpreting Lesh's words. This was a time of transition and experimentation, with the rise of alternative rock, grunge, and electronic music, among other genres. These shifts in musical trends and audience preferences likely influenced Lesh's perception of the changing nature of live performances.

In essence, Lesh's quote captures a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of live music, characterized by a more fluid and enchanting concert experience. His reflections on the '90s music scene shed light on the challenges and changes faced by musicians and audiences during that time, while also serving as a reminder of the enduring allure of live music and its capacity to create truly magical moments.

In conclusion, Phil Lesh's quote provides a thought-provoking commentary on the evolving nature of live music performances in the 1990s. His observations offer valuable insights into the impact of changing industry dynamics and cultural shifts on the format and quality of live shows during that era. By expressing a sense of nostalgia for the "magical" performances of earlier years, Lesh's words capture the enduring appeal of live music and the profound impact it can have on both artists and audiences.