It was a special day in Tempe back in 1982, and the boys were obviously enjoying themselves. You can practically hear Jerry smiling as he meanders through Bird Song, delivering just the right licks to set off the rest of the boys' luscious playing. Later, during the Scarlet> Fire that opens the second set, the Dead pour it on, busting through enchanting jam after enchanting jam and creating a spectacular, moving soundscape. But don't take our word for it, listen to the loveliness yourself at Grateful Dead of the Day.
The Dead played a monumental Dark Star with a heavy Slipknot! jam at the end in Chicago on this day in 1974. While the Dark Star is the crux, a sizzling Weather Report Suite in the first set, stand-alone Scarlet to open the second, and rare Ship of Fools encore are not to be missed. But, really, the entire Wall of Sound show is more than worth the listen. Take it all in.
A very happy birthday to José Chepito Areas! Chepito is not only the great Nicaraguan timbales player - the Gene Krupa of his home country - but one of the foundational members of Santana. And he spent some time on stage with the Grateful Dead. Click on through to read more about Chepito, his career, and his time with the Dead.
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Until tomorrow, spread the love and enjoy the music!