Don’s Pick: A Journey Back to ’69 – Dead Set Live Unearths a Gem from the Dawn of the Dead

This week on Don’s Pick, Dead Set Live takes you on an auditory journey straight back to the genesis, deep into the heart of the Grateful Dead’s early days. As we celebrate the momentous 60th anniversary of this iconic band, it feels only right to revisit a period brimming with raw energy and the burgeoning improvisation that would define their legendary career.

For our exclusive live spotlight, we’re pulling a true classic from the vaults: The Grateful Dead, live from the Avalon Ballroom in San Francisco, California, on January 26, 1969.

This particular show captures the essence of a band finding its voice, expanding its sonic boundaries, and laying the groundwork for decades of musical exploration. The Avalon Ballroom, a legendary venue in its own right, provided the perfect crucible for these early experiments, and this recording is a testament to the magic that unfolded within its walls.

Prepare for an immersive experience, as we present this historical performance in its entirety, allowing you to feel the pulse of the era.

Set 1 kicks off with an immersive experience:

• Tuning: A glimpse into the pre-show anticipation, setting the stage for the sonic adventure to come.
• That’s It For The Other One… This sprawling, exploratory piece showcases the band’s early psychedelic leanings and their fearless dive into extended improvisation.
• Clementine… A rarity from this period, demonstrating the band’s evolving songwriting and the tightness of their early arrangements.
• Death Don’t Have No Mercy: A powerful, soulful rendition, highlighting Jerry Garcia’s poignant vocals and the band’s ability to imbue traditional blues with their unique touch.

The second set plunges deeper into the improvisational unknown:

• Dark Star… The quintessential Grateful Dead improvisational vehicle, even in its early form, promises a mesmerizing, winding journey through cosmic soundscapes.
• St. Stephen… An undeniable anthem, even then, this version pulses with youthful vigor and the collective energy of the band.
• The Eleven… A high-octane, rhythmically complex piece that perfectly complements “St. Stephen,” demonstrating their intricate musical conversations.
• Turn On Your Lovelight: A joyous, raucous closer that consistently brought down the house, showcasing Pigpen’s commanding presence and the band’s ability to ignite a crowd.

This January 26, 1969, performance is more than just a concert; it’s a snapshot of history, a vibrant testament to the formative years of a band that would change the course of music forever. Tune into Dead Set Live this week for Don’s Pick and immerse yourself in the raw, unadulterated sound of the Grateful Dead as they began their incredible 60-year journey.