It’s safe to say that night 1 of Grateful Dead, Fare Thee Well Chicago was of much success. After the previous weekend’s Santa Clara shows it seems that all the kinks have been worked out and the band has truly settled in and excepted one another’s style and energy. The crowd filed in as the band opened up with Phil’s classic “Box of Rain” and a buzz began to lift the crowd. For many Dead Heads who were skeptical of Trey Anastasio’s place in the band, their questions were answered in “Bertha”. Traditional Jerry Garcia riffs with heavy presence of signature Trey Anastasio sound created an aura on the stage to elevate every spirit in the stadium.
After a ripping “Passenger” filled with keys and rock guitar, Phil, Bobby, Trey and Bruce shared vocals on a magical “The Wheel”. Trey came back in front and nailed a lullaby and soul softening performance of “Crazy Fingers“. People were seen weeping and holding each other in their arms swaying to the peaceful song. To end first set another song from the 70’s era, “The Music Never Stopped” got the crowd boogying down to a dance party for the ages. It did seem like the music may never end and no one was complaining.
Set break was, as usual was a time to move around, find your friends, relax and enjoy the house music while watching psychedelic animations fill the backdrop screens. It was a time to enjoy and beautiful night and perfect weather. The second set opener left even seasoned veteran Dead Heads guessing what it was, due to it’s rarity. “Mason’s Children” got the crowd moving and ready for the second set festivities. One highlight of the second set was surly “Scarlet Begonias>Fire On The Mountain“. The Grateful Dead seemed to have really harnessed the energy of Trey Anastasio, his guitar and vocals. Trey, Phil and Bobby traded looks at each other and then built up speed to Trey’s solo which rang to the heavens. This had just became, quite possibly, the greatest concert in history.
Something that sets Grateful Dead shows apart from any of it’s side projects over the years is Drums and Space. After years of being apart and also gaining experience and sound on their own, Billy and Mickey came together for a traditional mid second set drums that could get any tribe on earth feeling the heartbeat of the world. This is one thing that signifies the Grateful Dead from any other band in the world.
Some may argue that the “Help On The Way>Slipknot>Franklin’s Tower” was one of the best ever performed. It was amazing in so many ways and only built the energy to a level Dead Heads and Phish Heads alike, have never felt. To close the night the band encored “Ripple“. The crowed swayed, sang along and raised their drinks in the air. It was nothing short of magic. A perfect end to a perfect show.
Trey Anastasio, Bruce Hornsby and Jeff Chimenti were the right choices. Call the band what you want but these guys are members of the Grateful Dead.
One down, only two left to go….
Set 1: Box of Rain, Jack Straw, Bertha, Passenger, The Wheel, Crazy Fingers>The Music Never Stopped
Set 2: Mason’s Children, Scarlet Begonias>Fire On The Mountain>Drums>Space>New Potato Caboose>Playin’ In The Band, Let It Grow, Help On The Way> Slipknot>Franklin’s Tower
Encore: Ripple
