Dead Show/podcast for 8/14/26

We return to St. Paul this week for a wonderful second set from August 6, 1982. The set hangs together beautifully, with the band locked in from start to finish. The opening Scarlet > Fire features some fine interplay between Jerry and Bob, with Garcia’s lines dancing around Weir’s rhythm. That same energy carries into Lost Sailor > Saint of Circumstance, which spills into Space and an 11‑beat, “Eleven”-style jam that sets up some exuberant drumming. Truckin’ is not your usual 1982 fare either, with Brent and Phil adding plenty of snap and color. Post‑drums, a rare all‑Weir vocal segment brings a different flavor, highlighted by a lovely Goin’ Down the Road Feelin’ Bad into a rare non‑encore Johnny B. Goode. Jerry closes the night with a tender Baby Blue encore that feels very much of a piece with the mood of the set.

Grateful Dead
St. Paul Civic Center Arena
St. Paul, MN 
8/6/1982 - Friday

Two	

Scarlet Begonias [13:16] >
Fire On The Mountain [11:23] ;
Lost Sailor [7:13] >
Saint Of Circumstance [7:21] >
Space [4:04] >
Drums >
Space [11:51] >
Truckin' [7:13] >
Wharf Rat [9:31] >
Around And Around [4:15] >
Goin' Down The Road Feeling Bad [8:34] >
Johnny B. Goode [4:04]
Encore	
It's All Over Now, Baby Blue/pre>

 

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here:
https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod081426.mp3

Dead Show/podcast for 8/7/26

This week, as we approach the end of the “Days Between,” I thought this recording—emblematic of what I think of as the Dead’s ‘third’ period—would be a fitting choice as we remember Jerry. This one comes to us from St. Paul, MN, on August 6, 1982. It’s an energetic show with a tight ensemble throughout. Jerry is playing at a high level, and Brent, along with the rest of the band, is right there with him. There’s a lot to like here, but one of the highlights for me is the 10+ minute “Bird Song,” which flows nicely into “El Paso.” I’m also partial to the “Lazy Lightnin’ > Supplication,” where Garcia adds some particularly nice color in his solos. It’s a solid first set, and I think you’ll enjoy it. There are a few audience patches, but they don’t detract much from the overall experience.

Grateful Dead
St. Paul Civic Center Arena
St. Paul, MN 
8/6/1982 - Friday

One	

Bertha >
New Minglewood Blues ;
Candyman >
Little Red Rooster ;
Bird Song >
El Paso ;
Tennessee Jed ;
It's All Over Now ;
Lazy Lightnin' >
Supplication ;
Might As Well

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod080726.mp3 "Tell me all that you know, I'll show you... snow and rain"

Dead Show/podcast for 7/31/26

 This week on the Deadpod we head back to the Family Dog at the Great Highway in San Francisco for a superb show from August 3, 1969. This is the kind of set that reminds us just how quickly the Grateful Dead were evolving in that remarkable year, moving from the raw energy of their early material into the open-ended exploration that would define so much of what followed.

The set opens with a fine run of songs including “Hard To Handle,” “Beat It On Down The Line,” “Hi-Heel Sneakers,” “High Time,” and “Mama Tried.” From there the show opens up beautifully with a long and searching “Dark Star,” followed by the powerful sequence of “Alligator,” “Drums,” “The Other One,” and “Caution (Do Not Stop On Tracks),” before closing with “And We Bid You Goodnight.”

There are two guest artists - an unknown sax player and David LaFlame from 'It's A Beautiful Day', and they add a rich extra dimension to the sound that I really dig. 

There’s a lot to enjoy here: the contrast between the concise song-based first half and the expanded improvisational stretch that follows, the relaxed confidence of the band, and the sense that they are really finding their collective voice in real time. It’s a strong late-summer 1969 performance and a great listen for anyone who loves this transitional era of the Dead.

 

Grateful Dead
Family Dog at the Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
8/3/1969 - Sunday    

Hard To Handle  
Beat It On Down The Line  
Hi-Heel Sneakers  
High Time  
Mama Tried  
Dark Star  
Alligator> 
Drums> 
The Other One> 
Caution (Do Not Stop On Tracks)> 
And We Bid You Goodnight

 

 You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod073126.mp3 

Dead Show/podcast for 7/24/26

This week on Deadpod we’re back at the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco for the second set from 7/12/76, a show that has that special midsummer 1976 feel I’ve always loved: relaxed, open, and full of musical space, but with plenty of spark still in the band’s step. 

The set gets underway with a very nice “Sugaree,” followed by a spirited “Samson And Delilah,” and then we move into one of the great touchstones of the era — “Help On The Way” > “Slipknot!” > “Franklin’s Tower,” played here with real assurance and flow. From there the band keeps the momentum going with a lively “Dancing In The Street,” and then settles into the deep emotional current of “Wharf Rat.” After that comes “Drums,” and then a wonderfully expansive “The Wheel” that helps push the set into its final stretch. “Around And Around” closes things out with some good old-fashioned punch, and “U.S. Blues” brings us home in the encore with just the right amount of swagger. It’s a set that really shows what was happening with the Dead in 1976: the band had found a new balance, and they were making music with patience, depth, and a real sense of possibility. I hope you enjoy it.

Grateful Dead
Orpheum Theatre
San Francisco, CA 
7/12/1976 - Monday	

Two 	
Sugaree [10:53] %
Samson And Delilah [6:46] %
Help On The Way [4:32] >
Slipknot! [7:44] >
Franklin's Tower [14:11] 
Dancing In The Street [11:26] 
Wharf Rat [12:24] >
Drums [4:41] >
The Wheel [4:47] >
Around And Around [7:07]
Encore
U.S. Blues [7:20]


You can listen to this week's Deadpod here:

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod072426.mp3


"summertime done, come and gone my oh my"

Dead Show/podcast for 7/17/26

This week takes us to Summer tour 1976 - to the first night of a six night run on the home turf of San Francisco California for a delightful show at the intimate Orpheum Theater on July 12, 1976. 

'The Music Never Stopped' provides a fine and fitting opener as the boys return to the stage on the West Coast following their hiatus from touring and the completion of 'Blues for Allah' and an East Coast swing. 

This first set is filled with old favorites colored with new tempos and some very sweet jams. Some of my favorites include 'Tennesse Jed' (here included from an audience recording), 'Row Jimmy', 'Lazy Lighting into Supplication' and a short but sweet 'Deal'.

We'll listen to set 2 next week with more 'new' material included.... 

 

Grateful Dead
Orpheum Theatre
San Francisco, CA 
7/12/1976 - Monday	

One	
The Music Never Stopped [5:23] 
Brown Eyed Women [4:25] 
Cassidy [4:05] 
Tennessee Jed [8:27] 
New Minglewood Blues [4:22] 
Candyman [7:04] 
Looks Like Rain [6:26] 
Row Jimmy [9:33] 
Lazy Lightnin' [2:55]
Supplication [4:46] 
Deal [4:37] 
The Promised Land [4:08]

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here:  

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod071726.mp3  

My thanks for your kind support my friends 

Dead Show/podcast for 7/10/26

We return this week to the plains of Kansas for the second set of the band’s July 4, 1990 performance at Sandstone Amphitheater. The band comes back as the sun dips down and treats us to a couple of their newer songs, starting with ‘Victim or the Crime’. They lighten the mood with a fine ‘Foolish Heart’, which flows into one of my favorite Brent tunes, ‘Just a Little Light’. Knowing this was one of the last shows Brent ever played, I’m especially grateful to have seen him that final time. A wonderful ‘Scarlet > Fire’ follows—perfect for this sizzling day—and Jerry is absolutely sizzling on it. ‘Drums’ and ‘Space’ come next and lead nicely into a heartfelt ‘Wheel’. Things ramp up with ‘Gimme Some Lovin’, again punctuated by great contributions from Brent. A soulful ‘Stella Blue’ follows, and the crowd falls completely silent, hanging on every verse. The band closes with ‘Sugar Mag’, then, appropriately, returns with a raucous ‘U.S. Blues’ encore.

Grateful Dead
Sandstone Amphitheatre
Bonner Springs, KS 
7/4/1990 - Wednesday 

Two 	
Victim Or The Crime >
Foolish Heart >
Just A Little Light >
Scarlet Begonias >
Fire On The Mountain >
Drums >
Space >
The Wheel >
Gimme Some Lovin' >
Stella Blue >
Sugar Magnolia

Encore 	
U.S. Blues 

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod071026.mp3  

Stay strong my friends and thank you for your kind support.  

Dead Show/podcast for 7/3/26

On this sweltering Fourth of July weekend, I’ve decided to travel back to another sweltering Fourth—July 4, 1990 at Sandstone Amphitheatre in Bonner Springs, Kansas. With temperatures well over 100 at showtime and no roof over the seating area, this was probably the hottest showtime I’d ever experienced. For me, it was a deeply memorable night: not only the last time I’d see Brent before his tragic passing, but also a show with some killer versions of classic songs.

The first set, which we’ll hear this week, is a bit short—the boys were getting scorched with the sun shining directly on them, Jerry in shorts and all—but there are some great highlights, starting with the ironically appropriate opener, “Cold Rain & Snow.” Other standouts include a fine “Half‑Step,” a rare “Loose Lucy,” and a strong “Loser.” And for the setlist nerds among us, it’s worth noting that all of Bob’s tunes in this first set are covers, from Son House to Dylan to Chuck Berry.

Even with the band and crowd baking in that relentless Kansas sun, there’s an energy and focus in this first set that still comes through on the tape. You can hear the band leaning into the songs rather than stretching out, but that only seems to sharpen the edges on “Cold Rain & Snow” and “Half‑Step,” and give “Loose Lucy” and “Loser” a little extra punch. I hope you enjoy revisiting this hot, short, and very sweet first set with me this week—and that you’ll be back next time when we pick things up after dark for the second set, where “Victim,” “Foolish Heart,” and a big “Scarlet → Fire” really show what Summer ’90 could do.

Grateful Dead
Sandstone Amphitheatre
Bonner Springs, KS 7/4/1990 - Wednesday 

One

 
Cold Rain & Snow >
Walkin' Blues 
Mississippi Half-Step Uptown Toodleloo 
Queen Jane Approximately 
Loose Lucy 
It's All Over Now 
Loser 
The Promised Land 

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod070326.mp3

I hope you have a safe and happy 4th of July! 

stay hydrated! 

Dead Show/podcast for 6/26/26

This week’s Deadpod features the Grateful Dead’s second set from June 4, 1978, at Campus Stadium, University of California, Santa Barbara—a show that captures the band in a confident and fluid late-’70s mode.

The set opens with a lively “Samson and Delilah,” followed by a nicely rendered “Ship of Fools” that provides an early contrast in mood. The improvisational core begins with “Estimated Prophet,” which unfolds patiently before transitioning into a bright and engaging “Eyes of the World.” (nevermind Bobby stepping on Jerry's solo).  The Eyes is a bit on the fast side, I wonder if the presence of Ken Kesey and the Thunder machine had something to do with that?

“Drums” and a concise “Space” serve as a bridge into the closing sequence, where a driving “Not Fade Away” builds into “Goin’ Down the Road Feeling Bad” and a high-energy “Around and Around.” The set is capped by a pair of encores—“U.S. Blues” and “Sugar Magnolia”—that bring the performance to an upbeat conclusion.

Overall, this is a well-paced and cohesive second set, offering both strong song performances and a satisfying improvisational arc. As always, I hope you enjoy the listen.

 

 

Grateful Dead
Campus Stadium - University Of California
Santa Barbara, CA 6/4/1978 - Sunday 

Two     

Samson And Delilah [6:34] 
Ship Of Fools [6:57] 
Estimated Prophet [10:40] >
Eyes Of The World [10:16] >
Drums [10:#16] >
Space (1) [4:21] >
Not Fade Away [8:04] >
Goin' Down The Road Feeling Bad [6:29] >
Around And Around [7:27]

Encores     
U.S. Blues [5:09] 
Sugar Magnolia [7:51]  

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here:

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod062626.mp3 

As always thanks for your kind support of the Deadpod!  

Dead Show/podcast for 6/19/26

This week’s Deadpod takes us back to sunny California for a Sunday show at the University of California, Santa Barbara, on June 4, 1978.

This is their first show in about a month following the excellent Spring tour, and the band sounds like they’re in great spirits—evidenced both by the between-song banter and the upbeat performances throughout the set. A somewhat unusual pairing opens things up, with “Bertha” flowing into “Good Lovin’”—be sure to listen for Garcia’s vocal touches there.

You might also notice Bobby’s vocal substitution in “Me and My Uncle,” a small but interesting moment. The whole set is strong, but highlights for me include a particularly expressive “Looks Like Rain” and, of course, a very satisfying “Tennessee Jed.” Things nearly get out of hand on the closing “Jack Straw,” which makes for a fun finish.

Grateful Dead
Campus Stadium - University Of California
Santa Barbara, CA
6/4/1978 - Sunday

One
Bertha [7:01] >
Good Lovin' [6:21]
Dire Wolf [3:21]
Me And My Uncle [3:04] >
Big River [6:03]
Brown Eyed Women [5:02]
Looks Like Rain [7:35]
Tennessee Jed [8:20]
Jack Straw [5:21]

You can listen to this week’s Deadpod here:
https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod061926.mp3

We’ll play the second set next week. For now, I hope you enjoy this fine show from June of 1978. My thanks, as always, for your kind support.

Dead Show/podcast for 6/12/26

This week’s Deadpod features the second set from June 6th, 1992, a performance that captures the Grateful Dead’s late-era mix of looseness, drive, and exploratory spirit. The set opens on a joyful note with “Iko Iko,” before shifting into a spacious “Estimated Prophet” that leads into a rare second-set “The Same Thing.” From there, the mood turns inward with a heartfelt “He’s Gone,” setting up the transition into “Drums” and “Space.” Out of “Space,” the band launches a powerful “The Other One,” bringing a darker, more intense energy before easing into “The Wheel.” The closing run of “Throwing Stones” and “One More Saturday Night” delivers the expected early-’90s punch. The encore pairing of “Baba O’Riley” and “Tomorrow Never Knows” is a highlight, underscoring the band’s willingness in this period to reinterpret classic rock and psychedelic touchstones in their own voice. It’s a well-paced, engaging second set that offers a rewarding snapshot of the Dead in 1992. 

Grateful Dead
Rich Stadium
Orchard Park, NY 6/6/1992 - Saturday

Two    

Iko Iko ;
Estimated Prophet >
The Same Thing >
He's Gone >
Drums >
Space >
The Other One >
The Wheel >
Throwing Stones >
One More Saturday Night

Encore    
Baba O'Riley >
Tomorrow Never Knows

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod061226.mp3  

As always my sincere thanks for your kind support..  

Dead Show/podcast for 6/5/26

 

This week’s Deadpod comes from a listener request, as we head to Buffalo, New York, and the Grateful Dead’s performance at Rich Stadium on June 6, 1992. It’s firmly in the early ’90s period, with Vince Welnick on keys and the band leaning into a more polished, modern sound while still drawing on their deep songbook.

In this first set we get a very ’90s opener with “Touch of Grey” into “Greatest Story Ever Told,” followed by a focused “Althea” and a lively “It’s All Over Now.” The mood then shifts into a more acoustic‑flavored stretch with “Friend of the Devil” and “When I Paint My Masterpiece,” before the set closes out with a sing‑along “Ramble On Rose” and a “Let It Grow” that brings some welcome late‑set energy and improvisation. This week we’ll feature that opening set; we’ll return to Buffalo next week for the second set and its high‑energy closing stretch.

I hope you enjoy this listener‑selected trip back to June 6, 1992 in Buffalo.

Grateful Dead
Rich Stadium
Orchard Park, NY 6/6/1992 - Saturday

One    

Touch Of Grey 
Greatest Story Ever Told 
Althea 
It's All Over Now 
Friend Of The Devil 
When I Paint My Masterpiece 
Ramble On Rose 
Let It Grow

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod060526.mp3 

My thanks for your kind support! 

 

 

Dead Show/podcast for 5/29/26

This week’s Deadpod continues our visit to Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York, as we present the second set from May 8, 1981. After last week’s well‑played opening set, the band comes out strong here with a big “Shakedown Street” into “Samson and Delilah,” then digs deep with “Terrapin Station” flowing into a wide‑open “Playin’ in the Band” and on through Drums and Space. Ken Kesey even joins in on harmonica during Space and the “U.S. Blues” encore, adding a unique extra flavor to the proceedings. The home stretch features a fiery “Not Fade Away,” a beautiful “Stella Blue,” and a rousing “Sugar Magnolia,” capped by that “U.S. Blues” encore that feels just right for this time of year.

Grateful Dead

Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Uniondale, NY 5/8/1981 - Friday

Two
Shakedown Street [16:09] >
Samson And Delilah [6:50] ;
Terrapin Station[12:28] >
Playing In The Band [16:27] >
Drums [4:#36] >
Space** [6:30] >
Not Fade Away [9:17] >
Stella Blue [9:24] >
Sugar Magnolia [8:58]
Encore
U.S. Blues** [5:37]
Comments **with Ken Kesey on harmonica

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod052926.mp3

May this music bring a smile .. 

Dead Show/podcast for 5/22/26

For this Memorial Day weekend edition of the Deadpod, we’re traveling to Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York, for the Grateful Dead’s spring tour stop on May 8, 1981. This is early‑’80s Brent Mydland era, and the band sounds sharp and energized: Jerry’s in good voice, Brent’s keys add color and bounce, and the rhythm section keeps everything moving with plenty of drive and nuance.

In this first installment we feature the opening set, a compact but very satisfying run that opens with “Jack Straw” and “Peggy‑O,” moves through “Me and My Uncle,” “Big River,” “Loser,” and “Althea,” and builds to a strong “Let It Grow” before closing with “Don’t Ease Me In.” Next week we’ll return to Nassau for the second set, highlighted by a big “Shakedown Street” opener, a deep “Terrapin Station” into “Playin’ in the Band” sequence, and a powerful closing stretch that feels just right for the start of summer.

I hope you enjoy this slice of May 1981 from Nassau.

Grateful Dead

Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Uniondale, NY
5/8/1981 - Friday
One
Jack Straw [5:38] ;
Peggy-O [6:47] ;
Me And My Uncle [2:59] >
Big River [5:39] ;
Loser [8:05] ;
C C Rider [7:49] ;
Althea [8:43] >
Let It Grow[10:27] >
Don't Ease Me In [3:12]

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod052226.mp3

Have a safe and fun Memorial Day weekend..... 

Dead Show/podcast for 5/15/26

This week on the Deadpod, we travel to Nassau Coliseum on May 14th, 1980, for a second set that finds the Grateful Dead settling confidently into the early Brent Mydland era. The band sounds relaxed yet focused, blending that familiar late‑70s drive with a more expansive, textural approach.

The set opens with the cool, pulsing groove of “Feel Like a Stranger” and flows into a beautifully unhurried “Sugaree,” then turns inward with the reflective pairing of “Lost Sailor” and “Saint of Circumstance.” From there, the music loosens into space, only to coalesce again around a heartfelt “Comes a Time” and a powerful “Other One” that still crackles with unpredictability.

Things land on more earthbound ground with a tender “Black Peter” and a burst of rock and roll energy to close. It’s a spring 1980 Nassau journey that moves like a tide—easy, searching, and full of subtle turns, a fine snapshot of where the band was heading at the dawn of a new decade.

Grateful Dead
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Uniondale, NY
5/14/1980 - Wednesday
Two
Feel Like A Stranger [8:03] >
Sugaree [11:15] >
Lost Sailor [6:18] >
Saint Of Circumstance [6:01] >
Space [2:50] >
Comes A Time [8:24] >
The Other One [7:37] >
Drums [8:45] >
Space [3:11] >
Black Peter [9:17] >
Around And Around [3:57] >
Johnny B. Goode [4:09]

Encore

Don't Ease Me In (audience version)

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here:

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod051526.mp3

My thanks for your kind support

Dead Show/podcast for 5/8/26

The Dead have a long history of great Spring performances, and 1980 was no exception. This week we go to Nassau for the May 14, 1980 show at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. This was the first night of a three‑show run, with the last two nights later compiled on the 2002 “Go To Nassau” release, leaving this opening show as the odd one out from the official catalog.

This show comes shortly after the “Go To Heaven” release, so they open with “Alabama Getaway.” Jerry gives us a fine reading of “Candyman,” and the arrangements on Weir’s “country” tunes—“Mexicali Blues” and “El Paso”—are rockin’. “Tennessee Jed” follows, with Brent providing a lovely counterpoint to Garcia’s leads. “Let It Grow” then leads into a still‑new “Althea.” Another “Go To Heaven” tune follows, Brent’s “Easy to Love You,” which leads into a rocking, set‑closing “Music Never Stopped.”

Let’s settle in at Nassau Coliseum, May 14, 1980, on this week’s Deadpod.

Grateful Dead
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Uniondale, NY 5/14/1980 - Wednesday

One    

Alabama Getaway [4:10] >
The Promised Land [4:08] ;
Candyman [7:32] ;
Mexicali Blues [4:33] >
El Paso [4:22] ;
Tennessee Jed [9:25] ;
Let It Grow [9:00] >
Althea [8:15] ;
Easy To Love You [3:49] >
The Music Never Stopped [7:38] 

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod050826.mp3  

As always my sincere thanks for your kind support.  

Dead Show/podcast for 5/1/26

This week’s Deadpod takes us back to Pasadena, California, and the Rose Palace on May 10, 1969. This is a fierce, high-energy slice of early Dead, complete with a few rough edges from the road. “Hard To Handle” and “Morning Dew” both run into technical trouble, with the band’s frustration coming through loud and clear, but the real centerpiece here is the long psychedelic run from “Dark Star” into “Saint Stephen,” “The Eleven,” and a nearly half-hour “Turn On Your Love Light.”

It’s primal Dead, unpredictable and powerful, with all the danger and electricity of 1969 still crackling through the tape.

Grateful Dead
Rose Palace
Pasadena, CA 5/10/1969 - Saturday
One 
Hard To Handle [5:33];[1:05] 
Me And My Uncle [3:31];[0:57] 
Morning Dew [8:06] 
Yellow Dog Story [1:51];[0:23] 
Doin' That Rag [6:32];[0:31] 
Dark Star [20:59] >
Saint Stephen [6:08] >
The Eleven [15:56] >
Turn On Your Love Light [29:31]

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

 https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod050126.mp3  

This was originally recorded by Bear on an Ampex C90 cassette on a Concord F-400 Cassette Deck

Dead Show/podcast for 4/24/26

Saturday night in Chi-town brings us a second set that opens with the soon‑to‑be‑released “Touch of Grey,” delivered in a tight, confident reading. A funky “Man Smart (Woman Smarter)” follows, with Jerry and Brent locking into some lively interplay that keeps the energy high. “Terrapin Station” then unfolds and the band shows their trademark virtuosity, taking us on a vibrant, narrative‑driven ride. From there they drop into a deep, heavy Drums and Space segment—one of the real highlights of the set—before slamming into a powerful “Truckin’.”

That sets up the ballad slot, and Jerry turns in an outstanding “Wharf Rat,” rich with emotion and dynamic nuance. Bobby then leads the band into “Throwing Stones,” complete with some fiery Garcia solos, and “Not Fade Away” closes the set in classic call‑and‑response fashion. The crowd, clearly feeling that extra X‑factor in this post‑drums stretch, keeps the “NFA” chant going until the band returns for a heartfelt and moving “Black Muddy River” encore

 

Grateful Dead
UIC Pavilion - University of Illinois
Chicago, IL
4/11/1987 - Saturday

Two     

Touch Of Grey [6:00] >
Man Smart (Woman Smarter) [7:39] >
Terrapin Station [11:29] >
Drums [7:47] >
Space [6:48#] >
Truckin' [7:14] >
Wharf Rat [8:40] >
Throwing Stones [8:48] >
Not Fade Away [6:18]

Encore     
Not Fade Away [ 0:52] >
Black Muddy River [6:16]  

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod042426.mp3   

"hold onto the memories, they will hold onto you"

  

Dead Show/podcast for 4/17/26

This week's Deadpod takes us to the first Midwestern stop since Garcia's coma, and it seems clear that Jerry is determined to show the fans that he is back and kicking! Following the 'Hell In A Bucket' opener, Jerry delivers a resounding 'Sugaree' with plenty of sparks and flourishes. Bobby's 'New Minglewood Blues is nicely paced - especially brimming with Brent's B3 contributions. The 'Loser' that follows however could well be the highlight of the set - the crowd is really into it and Jerry delivers a masterful reading. Brent's 'Tons of Steel' follows - Brent gives this track a real emotional reading. Bobby next takes us to 'Desolation Row' - somehow remembering all those verses. Jerry ramps it up again with a strong 'Big Railroad Blues' and the ensemble delivers a resounding 'Music Never Stopped' to close this first set. 

  

Grateful Dead
UIC Pavilion - University of Illinois
Chicago, IL
4/11/1987 - Saturday

One    

Hell In A Bucket [5:55] >
Sugaree [9:27] 
New Minglewood Blues (1) [6:54] 
Loser [7:02] 
Tons Of Steel [5:08] 
Desolation Row [10:25] 
Big Railroad Blues [4:29] 
The Music Never Stopped [7:18]

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod041726.mp3 

 

Hope the sun is shining in your backdoor! thanks for your kind support!  

 

Dead Show/podcast for 4/10/26

 They open with a bouncy "Man Smart (Woman Smarter)" before Jerry brings out one of his more poignant ballads, "To Lay Me Down." The introspective mood continues as Bobby rolls into "Lost Sailor," but things pick up speed as he moves into "Saint of Circumstance." Drums and Space follows, slowly building momentum until Phil drops a huge bass bomb leading into "The Other One" — the jamming, psychedelic rendition here is the highlight of the set. They then drift into the haunting "Stella Blue" before "Goin' Down the Road Feelin' Bad" carries us toward the close, punctuated by a high-energy "Satisfaction" led by Bobby and Brent Mydland. The "Brokedown Palace" encore is always a favorite sendoff.

 NOTE: the first version of this was missing Man Smart (Woman Smarter) - this version is corrected and should be downloaded. 

Grateful Dead
Community War Memorial Auditorium
Rochester, NY 4/9/1982 - Friday

Two    

Man Smart (Woman Smarter) [6:54] ;
To Lay Me Down [9:00] ;
Lost Sailor [6:21] >
Saint Of Circumstance [7:19] >
Drums [2:34#] >
Space [7:28] >
The Other One [7:08] >
Stella Blue [7:32] >
Goin' Down The Road Feeling Bad [6:11] >
(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction [6:37]

Encore    
Brokedown Palace [5:14]

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod041026a.mp3

thanks for the love and support!  

Dead Show/podcast for 4/3/26

We roll into the Spring Tour of 1982 on this week’s Deadpod, visiting Rochester, New York, where the boys always seemed to play a great show—and this one is no exception. They open with a jumping “Alabama Getaway” that slides into a tight “Greatest Story Ever Told.” From there the feel shifts from an easy‑rolling “Dire Wolf” into a bluesy “C C Rider.” The band takes flight on a soaring “Bird Song” that stretches out just enough to let you really sink into the jam. They move back into the barroom with “It’s All Over Now” and a bruised “Loser.” Following a raucous “New Minglewood Blues,” the familiar refrain of “China Cat” kicks off a joyous ride into “I Know You Rider,” closing out a smartly constructed, highly satisfying first set.

Grateful Dead
Community War Memorial Auditorium
Rochester, NY 4/9/1982 - Friday

One    

Alabama Getaway [4:41] >
Greatest Story Ever Told [3:58] 
Dire Wolf [3:12] >
C C Rider [7:45] 
Bird Song [8:15] 
It's All Over Now [7:47] 
Loser [6:43] 
New Minglewood Blues [6:58] 
China Cat Sunflower [5:02] >
I Know You Rider [5:23] 

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod040326.mp3  

my thanks for your kind support of the Deadpod! 

 

Dead Show/podcast for 3/27/26

Nassau Coliseum, March 12, 1992 — and the second set is where the real action is. Bobby charges out of the gate with a muscular 'Saint of Circumstance' that rolls straight into a gorgeous 'Ship of Fools', with Vince's backing vocals elevating the whole thing. Then comes 'Corrina' — percolating along until Phil takes the wheel and steers them into a reprise of 'Playin' in the Band' from the night before, a rare thread connecting two consecutive shows. Drums and Space are worth the listen on their own tonight, before Phil drops the bass bombs that detonate into 'The Other One'. Jerry answers with an emotionally raw 'Stella Blue', and the set closes on a rocking 'Sugar Magnolia'. They come back for one more — a lovely 'It's All Over Now, Baby Blue', with Bruce Hornsby lending his accordion to the farewell.

Grateful Dead
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Uniondale, NY  3/12/1992 - Thursday

Two    

Saint Of Circumstance ;
Ship Of Fools >
Corrina >
Playing Reprise >
Drums >
Space >
The Other One >
Stella Blue >
Sugar Magnolia

Encore    
It's All Over Now, Baby Blue 

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

https://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod032726.mp3  

 "Well, I sure don't know what I going for
But I'm gonna go for it for sure (that's for sure)"

Dead Show/podcast for 3/20/26

This week's Deadpod drops us into the Spring 1992 tour, catching the band at the Nassau Coliseum for a rockin' first set that showcases both Phil Lesh and Bruce Hornsby — in what would turn out to be Bruce's final tour with the band.

The set runs a bit short, but that was pretty typical for the latter-day Dead. No matter — the band is in fine form. Phil kicks things off leading the charge on 'Greatest Story Ever Told,' followed by a rousing 'Bertha.' 'Stagger Lee' is another Lesh showcase, though the whole band locks in beautifully by the end. 'Beat It On Down The Line' opens with a full nine-beat intro before Phil delivers a genuine surprise — a standout vocal on 'Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues,' one of my personal favorite Dead covers. Bruce then steps forward on a heavy, honky-tonk-tinged 'Tennessee Jed.' The boys close out the set on a high note with a spirited 'Promised Land,' Bruce adding a nice solo to send everyone home happy.

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

 Grateful Dead
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Uniondale, NY 3/12/1992 - Thursday

One     

Greatest Story Ever Told 
Bertha 
Walkin' Blues 
Stagger Lee 
Beat It On Down The Line 
Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues 
Tennessee Jed 
The Promised Land  

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod032026.mp3  

Thank you for your kind support my friends.  

 

Dead Show/podcast for 3/13/26

This week on the Deadpod, we’ve got the second set from the Grateful Dead’s Mardi Gras show on March 3rd, 1987. After the parade winds through, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band joins the boys for a loose and funky “Iko Iko.” It takes a minute for everyone to sync up, but it’s all part of the fun — you can feel how much they’re enjoying themselves.

The set really kicks into gear with “Saint of Circumstance,” followed by a gorgeous “Terrapin Station.” Out of “Drums” and “Space,” the band fires up “Gimme Some Lovin’,” then slides into a sweet “Wharf Rat,” “Throwin’ Stones,” and a big “Touch of Grey” to close things out.

Jerry trips up on a line during the “Brokedown Palace” encore, but the crowd — and the band — help him along. It’s one of those perfectly human Dead moments that make this show fun to hear.

Grateful Dead
Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center
Oakland, CA 3/3/1987 - Tuesday

Two    

Iko Iko [9:20] ;
Saint Of Circumstance [6:53] ;
Terrapin Station [12:32] >
Drums [7:33] >
Space [6:40] >
Gimme Some Lovin' [5:05] >
Wharf Rat [9:08] >
Throwing Stones [8:42] >
Touch Of Grey [5:34]

Encore    
Brokedown Palace [5:26] 

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod031326.mp3  

thanks so much for your kind support!  

 

Dead Show/podcast for 3/6/26

This week we return to the post-coma Dead of early 1987 - this show took place on March 3, 1987 at the Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland. I happen to think the band, and Garcia, shows a real rebound here and hope you agree.

The opening 'Quinn the Eskimo' is a perfect way to elevate the crowd's mood, and Jerry does a fine job on the vocals.. it flows into a nice 'Greatest Story Ever Told ' and Jerry again hits it with a fine 'Loser'. 'Minglewood and 'Tons of Steel' are both well performed, and Bobby does some nice jamming on a fine version of 'Cassidy' 

The highlight of this set has to be fhe 'Mississippi Half-Step'. I think you'll agree that this one reaches a high note, and the set closing 'Promised Land' finishes things off with some great energy.  

 

Grateful Dead

Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center
Oakland, CA 3/3/1987 - Tuesday
One

The Mighty Quinn (Quinn The Eskimo) [4:32] 
Greatest Story Ever Told [3:59] 
Loser [7:08] 
New Minglewood Blues  [7:05] 
Tons Of Steel [5:14] 
Cassidy [6:10] 
Mississippi Half-Step Uptown Toodeloo [9:15] >
The Promised Land [4:15]

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod030626.mp3  

 

thank you for your kind support..  

..."may the four winds blow you safely home.." 

 

Dead Show/podcast for 2/27/26

This week on the Deadpod, we roll into the second set from the band’s show at Pauley Pavilion, UCLA, on February 21, 1982.

The set kicks off with a lively China → Rider that flows effortlessly into a spacious Estimated Prophet. The jam here has a jazzy, relaxed vibe, with Bobby laying down some especially tasteful rhythmic textures. Eyes of the World follows — played at that brisk early-’80s tempo that might not be everyone’s favorite, but Garcia’s soaring fills more than make up for it.

After Drums and Space, the band launches into a fascinating Not Fade Away, led off by a wonderful Phil Lesh intro that gradually gathers steam as each player adds their voice to the mix. It builds into a full-on whirlwind, topped by some of Bobby’s trademark calls to the crowd. A heartfelt Brokedown Palace encore closes things out beautifully after a spirited Sugar Magnolia.

 

Grateful Dead
Pauley Pavilion - University of California
Los Angeles, CA 2/21/1982 - Sunday

Two    
China Cat Sunflower >
I Know You Rider >
Estimated Prophet >
Eyes Of The World >
Drums >
Space >
Not Fade Away >
Stella Blue >
Sugar Magnolia

Encore    
Brokedown Palace

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod022726.mp3

Thank you so much for your kind support

Dead Show/podcast for 2/20/26

Today we head back to February 1982 and the Pauley Pavilion at UCLA for a fine‑sounding tape of a very tasty Grateful Dead set.

They come out of the gate with a wonderful Shakedown; Brent and Phil are all over this one, and it makes for a perfect opener.

A gritty New Minglewood Blues follows, with Bobby leaning into the slide work here and again later on Little Red Rooster.

Jerry is in strong voice on Friend of the Devil and a spacious Bird Song, and the set wraps up in unusual fashion with Bertha sliding straight into Man Smart (Woman Smarter) as a first‑set closer.

Grateful Dead
Pauley Pavilion – University of California
Los Angeles, CA – 2/21/1982 – Sunday

One
Shakedown Street >
New Minglewood Blues 
Friend Of The Devil 
Me And My Uncle >
Big River 
Bird Song 
Little Red Rooster 
Bertha >
Man Smart (Woman Smarter)

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod022026.mp3 

 

Dead Show/podcast for 2/13/26

Welcome to this week's Deadpod! We're diving into the second set from the Grateful Dead's homecoming performance at the Oakland Coliseum on February 26, 1990 — the middle night of their Mardi Gras run.

The boys were clearly thrilled to be back in the Bay Area, and that energy radiates through this exceptional set. The pre-drums sequence is absolutely stellar: nearly 30 minutes of Scarlet > Fire flows seamlessly into a spirited Playing, which then blooms into the full Terrapin suite. It's the kind of sustained improvisation that reminds you why these songs belong together.

Coming out of Space, the emotional arc deepens — I Need a Miracle's urgency gives way to one of Jerry's most tender Stella Blues of the era, before Bobby unleashes a joyful, rollicking Lovelight that brings everyone home. The Baby Blue encore provides the perfect denouement to a magical night.

This Mardi Gras run always promised good times, and the band delivered in spades.

Grateful Dead
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena
Oakland, CA | February 26, 1990 (Monday)

Set 2
Scarlet Begonias [13:02] >
Fire On The Mountain [15:42]
Playing In The Band [9:58] >
Terrapin Station [12:54] >
Drums > Space >
I Need A Miracle [4:59] >
Stella Blue [8:53] >
Turn On Your Love Light [5:58]

Encore
It's All Over Now, Baby Blue [7:13]

Listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod021326.mp3

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

 

Dead Show/podcast for 2/6/26

As we roll into February this week's Deadpod comes from the second night of the Mardi Gras run of 1990. I think the boys are in good spirits here and we have some nice treats here in set one, with more to follow in next week's second set.

 Bobby opens with 'Hell In A Bucket' and you can tell how much he enjoys delivering it. Following a nice 'Peggy-O' we get another spirited Bobby number with a really good 'Walkin' Blues'. 'Ramble On Rose' always picks things up, then we get some encouragement for Phil to sing, and he obliges with a great 'Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues'. 

The somewhat short set concludes with 'Music Never Stopped' into 'Don't Ease Me In'.

Grateful Dead
Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena
Oakland, CA 2/26/1990 - Monday
One - [0:50:16]

Hell In A Bucket [6:54] 
Peggy-O [6:36] 
Walkin' Blues [6:14] 
Ramble On Rose [7:52] 
Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues [5:59] 
The Music Never Stopped [7:04]
Don't Ease Me In [3:42]  

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod020626.mp3  

'Winter gray and falling rain, we'll see summer come again'

 thanks for your kind support  

Dead Show/podcast for 1/30/26

This week I decided to go back and pick up this second set from the band's performance back on January 16, 1970 at Springer's Inn in Portland Oregon. 

 This recording has some issues - especially during the first two numbers - the Cumberland Blues is cut both at the start and the end, and Me & My Uncle is cut at the start. I've included both out of a love of completeness and because they still sound great. Some highlights here include a wonderful 'Dire Wolf' - with an admonition from Jerry to sing along, a fine 'Uncle John's Band' and Pigpen's 'Easy Wind'. I think you'll enjoy the rest of this set as well, especiall if you are a fan of 'Anthem of the Sun'.. 

 

Grateful Dead

Springer's Inn 
Portland, OR  January 16, 1970

Set 2

//Cumberland Blues//
//Me & My Uncle->
Dire Wolf
Uncle John's Band
Easy Wind
Cryptical Envelopment ->
Drums ->
The Other One ->
Cryptical Envelopment ->
Cosmic Charlie

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod013026.mp3 

"Such a long, long time to be gone
And a short time to be there" 
 

Dead Show/podcast for 1/23/26

 Honoring Bob Weir

1947-2026 

 

This week on the Deadpod I want to conclude my presentation of the Ratdog performance that took place back on November 2, 2000 in Columbia Missouri. 

I'll let the music speak for itself, and hope that you enjoy this recording. I was lucky enough to meet Bob and the band this evening and the show has always had a place in my heart. 

Fare thee well, Ace.  

 

Bob Weir & Ratdog 
The Blue Note, Columbia Missouri
11/2/2000 - Thursday

set 2:

West L.A. Fadeaway+
Lost Sailor >
Saint of Circumstance >
Bass/Drums >
The Wheel >
Turn On Your Lovelight 

encore
Johnny B Goode
+ w/Johnnie Johnson 

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod012326.mp3  

 

thank you for your kind support. 

 

  

Dead Show/podcast for 01/16/26

     RIP Bob Weir

1947-2026

The passing of Bob Weir this last week brought us all shock and sadness. Speaking for myself I wasn't ready for Ace to be gone, and I know it will hurt for a long time. Since there there have appeared countless tributes and appreciations for his talent, character and life. I won't try to add another one here. What I've decided on is to present to you this week a show that meant alot to me, that took place back when I was doing a Grateful Dead show on KOPN radio in Columbia Missouri. This show took place in an intimate venue called the Blue Note in Columbia Missouri back on November 2nd, 2000. We were thrilled to have Ratdog come to our town, and to be playing across the street from our station. I think they put on a great show and I decided to play that here on the Deadpod in its entirety this week and next as my remembrance of Bob. I hope you enjoy it. 

Bob Weir and Ratdog

The Blue Note, Columbia Missouri 11/2/2000 - Thursday

Set 1:  

Blackbird
The Winners
When I Paint My Masterpiece
Playin' In the Band
I Need A Miracle *
Little Red Rooster *
All Over Now *
Odessa

*w/Johnnie Johnson-without Jeff Chimenti  

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here:

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod011626.mp3  

Here's a picture of  Bob and myself after that show: 

 

Dead Show/podcast for 1/9/26

This week we have some 'Good Ol'Grateful Dead' for your listening pleasure.. This comes to us from Springer's Inn in Portland Oregon on January 16, 1970. 

The opening 'Casey Jones' has a number of sound problems, but bear with it the rest of the set is quite good - especially when you consider it is 55 years old.. There are a number of highlights here - the 'Black Peter' is exceptionally soulful,  and Pig gives a great rap and jam in 'Hard To Handle'. I love the 'China Cat' as well - listen for Garcia before his second solo.. 'Good Lovin' and 'Dancin' are each awesome as well. Nothing needs be said for a 'Death Don't Have No Mercy' set closer... if indeed this was the end of set 1 - we don't know for sure it could have been one long set.. 

Grateful Dead
Springer's Inn
Portland, OR 1/16/1970 - Friday

--Set 1--

Stage Announcements
Casey Jones*
Mama Tried
Black Peter
Hard to Handle
China Cat Sunflower ->**
I Know You Rider
High Time
// Good Lovin'***
Stage Announcements
Dancin' in the Streets
Alligator ->****
Drums ->
The Eleven Jam ->
Death Don't Have No Mercy

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod010926.mp3  

thank you for your kind support. 

peace. 

Dead Show/podcast for 1/2/26

As we turn the calendar to 2026, we present the second set from the band's performance at the Boston Music Hall on December 1, 1973. 

This is a very interesting second set, with songs that you don't always associate with that second set making an appearance.  They open with what is often a set closer - 'Around and Around' Then ease into some more traditional fare, with 'They Love Each Other' and 'Me & My Uncle' Things get interesting for me with 'Me and Bobby McGee' a favorite from the period, then 'Mississippi Half-Step' before we get to the real meat of set 2 with a 'Playin' In The Band> Uncle John's Band'>Playin' sandwich. a nice 'Row Jimmy folows then a rocking 'Greatest Story' and a fine 'Not Fade Away'>Goin Down the Road Feelin' Bad'.  

Grateful Dead
Boston Music Hall
Boston, MA 12/1/1973 - Saturday

Two     

Around And Around 
They Love Each Other 
Me And My Uncle 
Don't Ease Me In 
Me And Bobby McGee 
Mississippi Half-Step Uptown Toodeloo [7:35] 
Playing In The Band [13:42] >
Uncle John's Band [9:16] >
Playing In The Band [6:44] 
Row Jimmy 
Greatest Story Ever Told 
Not Fade Away [10:24] >
Goin' Down The Road Feeling Bad [8:23] >
One More Saturday Night [5:05]  

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here: 

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod010226.mp3  

My most sincere thanks to those of you who kindly supported the Deadpod this past year - and to everyone who enjoys the show and makes producing this podcast a pleasure. thank you.