obviously im in favor of the dead, (c'mon guys, they INVENTED "jamband" music), although Phish's instrumental compositions are far more complex and technically demanding.
Robert Hunter's lyrics blow phish lyrics out of the water. i dont think anyone would argue that.
and on the guitar styles of Jerry vs. Trey....
Jerry's influences were chuck berry, blues, bluegrass etc. he played BANJO and acoustic guitar, he only set out to learn electric when the 'warlocks' were first formed. i mean, what would trey have sounded like if he were born in 1942? lol
in music, instrumentalists build upon the technique accomplished by musicians who preceded them, and it just keeps evolving. to ask who was a better guitar player would be like to ask who was the better improvisor: louis Armstrong or Charlie Parker? its just not a logical question
Trey is the result of a different era, and different influences. He's got a modern sound, unique tone ( as did jerry) and brought 'jamrock' guitar playing to a new level.
to me though, its like apples and oranges, you Shouldnt compare them
If you wanna compare their personality/character, that might be more interesting. Jerry is a symbol of kindness, peace, he was always humble, willing to talk to anyone, and was always trying to improve his playing, and the bands sound. Trey on the otherhand is a flaming arrogant asshole... i mean please.... just watch bittersweet motel