Andrew-
Good call on your part. This is a well-above average show from a year that was actually pretty damn good across the board. I think there are some all-time great shows from December 99; both Portland dates, 12/7 and 12/8, stand out in particular, and of course Philly night two. I also think very highly of 12/3 set II. To me, the attribute shared by all the shows that were great from 99 is "lazy funk." Set II of this MPP show (also set II from Mansfield 7/13) really settles into that sound. Trey isn't shredding but laying deep into the groove. They aren't searching for a peak, specifically, but really getting comfortable in some excellent, moody funk. You have to like that sound, but if you do, '99 has it everywhere. Oswego set I lives in this world, however I think it is because it was soooooo unbelievably hot on that blacktop that the band, along with the audience, was just sapped of energy. 7/9 is a highly listenable show though, top to bottom. The set I Divided Sky is another nice moment-the jam is much more group oriented and mellow than is typical.
To piggyback on your point, Andrew, I would say this is EASILY one of the best Mikes out there (acknowledging that its a highly subjective matter). I am usually quite disappointed when, instead of digging into the groove and getting funky, the Mikes jam just flails away at shred-fest cock rock. I would say that basically every Mikes since 3.0 began has been that type. 7/9 Mikes is a must hear for those who prefer to get down (I would also nominate 7/1/00 as a heavyweight in this category).
This is a show that you can put on for a long drive and never skip a tune. It is very balanced and listenable despite being highly improvisatory. 99 doesn't get enough cred but there are some real gems