Garebear it is surprising, I too have seen him dozens of times including when Merle opened; these new shows, the arrangements, the clarity in sound (piano vocals and harmonica) shocked, amazed and overwhelmingly pleased me.
Dylan
I attended Dylan's final show at the Beacon in NYC (last evening) with my son, daughter, son-in-law. Having seen and heard him more times than I can count, I think last evening's was in the top three. In fact I have a ticket for the final stop on this tour (Philly Monday evening), and can't see how the Beacon show can be topped. The man is magical, and on fire. If he tours next year and you have even a bit of interest I suggest you act on it.