Live Dispatch Vol. 1: Blues for Allah ’26
The Grateful Dead’s 1975 jazz-fusion masterpiece, reimagined live with a heavy dose of Detroit soul, funk and free-form jazz.
From the Road, for Bobby
Recorded on the road during the band’s tour around Blues for Allah‘s 50th anniversary, Live Dispatch Vol. 1 is Don Was’ love letter to the Grateful Dead songbook. It’s also a tribute to his longtime friend and Wolf Bros bandmate, Bob Weir, who died in January.
Was, the Grammy-winning producer, Blue Note Records president and Was (Not Was) co-founder, leads his Detroit band through the album’s full sweep. The Dead’s exploratory jams pick up gritty Motor City soul, funk syncopation and horn-driven jazz improvisation along the way.
“Playing with Bobby Weir and The Wolf Bros drew me deep into the music of the Grateful Dead.”
“We hope that this record conveys our deep respect and love for this music.”
— Don Was
Six Extended Tracks
The Pan-Detroit Ensemble
Don Was · bass Dave McMurray · sax Vincent Chandler · trombone John Douglas · trumpet Wayne Gerard · guitar Phil Whitfield · keys Jeff Canady · drums Mahindi Masai · percussion Steffanie Christi’an · vocals
Formats & Pre-Orders
Vinyl & CD
Available on standard black vinyl and CD, with limited-edition color pressings (Lime Green and Sky Blue) at select retailers. The Verve Store LP is $29.98, limited to four per customer.
Stream the Singles Now
“The Music Never Stopped” (Don Was’ favorite Dead song) and the second single, “Crazy Fingers,” are out now on all major streaming platforms.
The Music Never Stopped
Live Dispatch Vol. 1: Blues for Allah ’26 · Out November 20, 2026
Read Our Bob Weir Birthday Show RecapBrought to you by The Grateful Dead Live
