Understanding the Landscape of a Dead & Co Show
For Deadheads, a Dead & Co show isn’t just a concert; it’s a pilgrimage. It’s a communal gathering steeped in history, improvisation, and the shared experience of music that transcends generations. And at the heart of this experience lies the setlist – the carefully curated, yet always surprising, selection of songs that will guide the evening’s journey. Dead & Co, comprised of John Mayer, Bob Weir, Mickey Hart, Bill Kreutzmann, Oteil Burbridge, and Jeff Chimenti, has taken on the monumental task of carrying the Grateful Dead torch, and their setlists are a crucial element in honoring that legacy while forging their own path. This article delves into the significance of Dead & Co setlists, exploring their construction, evolution, and the deep connection they foster with fans. We’ll explore the intricacies of how each show’s song selection blends classic Dead staples with new interpretations and surprising deep cuts.
The Two Set Structure
A quintessential Dead & Co show unfolds in a distinctive manner, generally structured around two sets. This format, deeply rooted in the Grateful Dead’s performance history, provides a framework for both familiarity and improvisation. The first set often serves as a warm-up, easing the audience into the evening with a blend of well-known tunes and carefully chosen selections. There’s a palpable sense of anticipation leading up to that opening song. The initial notes, the first chords – they all serve to set the tone for the night. Think of songs like “Bertha,” “Shakedown Street,” or even a spirited “Cold Rain and Snow” – tunes that immediately ignite the energy and let the crowd know they’re in for a night of classic Dead vibes with a modern twist.
Flow of the Sets
As the first set progresses, you’ll notice a balance between structure and spontaneity. While certain songs are more likely to appear, the sequence and the transitions between them are rarely predictable. You might hear a rendition of “Tennessee Jed,” followed by a soulful “Brown-Eyed Women,” showcasing the band’s ability to seamlessly weave together different styles and tempos. It’s a carefully constructed tapestry of sound, designed to engage the audience while leaving room for unexpected moments of musical brilliance.
The second set is where Dead & Co truly venture into uncharted territory. Here, the music becomes more exploratory, the jams more expansive, and the boundaries between songs blur into a continuous flow of sound. Classic jam vehicles like “Dark Star,” “Playing in the Band,” or “Estimated Prophet” often find their way into the second set, providing ample opportunity for extended improvisation and musical exploration. The rhythm section of Mickey Hart and Bill Kreutzmann, along with Oteil Burbridge on bass, lock into intricate grooves, while John Mayer and Bob Weir trade licks and weave melodic tapestries. Jeff Chimenti adds layers of texture and color with his keyboard work, creating a rich and immersive sonic landscape.
Drums and Space
No exploration of Dead & Co setlists would be complete without acknowledging the “Drums/Space” segment. This iconic portion of the show, inherited directly from the Grateful Dead, is a completely improvisational excursion into rhythm and sound. Mickey Hart and Bill Kreutzmann, often joined by other members of the band, create a mesmerizing soundscape of percussion and electronic effects. “Drums/Space” is a testament to the Grateful Dead’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of music and exploring the uncharted realms of sonic possibility. It’s a space for pure, unadulterated creativity, where anything can happen.
The Encore
Finally, the encore. After a set of soaring highs and unexpected turns, the encore serves as a final, satisfying punctuation mark. It’s a chance for the band to offer a moment of reflection, a heartfelt goodbye, and a lasting memory. Encores often feature classic ballads like “Ripple” or anthems like “Brokedown Palace,” leaving the audience with a sense of closure and gratitude.
The Song Selection Process
So, how does a Dead & Co setlist come together? It’s not simply a random assortment of songs; it’s a complex and carefully considered process influenced by a variety of factors.
Grateful Dead Catalog
At the core of every Dead & Co setlist lies the vast and rich catalog of the Grateful Dead. With hundreds of songs to choose from, the possibilities are virtually endless. Bob Weir, as a founding member of the Grateful Dead, brings a deep understanding of the band’s musical history and legacy. His personal preferences and interpretations play a significant role in shaping the setlist. Similarly, John Mayer’s guitar prowess and his own unique musical sensibilities add a fresh perspective to the classic Dead repertoire.
Tour Themes and Venues
Tour themes and milestones also exert a considerable influence. Anniversary tours, like the celebration of *Workingman’s Dead* and *American Beauty*, often feature songs from those iconic albums. Special events, like the *Fare Thee Well* concerts, also call for a curated selection of songs that commemorate the occasion.
Fans and Other Factors
Perhaps surprisingly, fan input and sentiment can also play a role. While Dead & Co doesn’t explicitly solicit requests, they are undoubtedly aware of the songs that fans are most eager to hear. Online forums and social media platforms buzz with discussions about setlist predictions and wish lists.
Lastly, the venue and location may influence the bands decisions on setlists. Shows in smaller, more intimate venues may call for a different selection of songs than those in large stadiums. Playing in a location where a particular Grateful Dead show took place is another reason to play specific songs.
Unpacking the Numbers
Analyzing Dead & Co setlists reveals fascinating trends and patterns. Some songs, like “Truckin’,” “Scarlet Begonias,” and “Fire on the Mountain,” appear more frequently than others, becoming staples of the Dead & Co repertoire. These songs are beloved by fans and provide a familiar touchstone in the ever-changing landscape of the live performance.
Common and Rare Songs
Conversely, there are also rare and unexpected choices that surprise and delight even the most seasoned Deadheads. These deep cuts, often pulled from the Grateful Dead’s lesser-known albums, showcase the band’s willingness to take risks and explore the full breadth of their musical legacy. The thrill of hearing a song that hasn’t been played in years is a testament to the band’s commitment to keeping things fresh and exciting.
Teases and Transitions
Pay close attention to the teases and transitions woven into the fabric of a Dead & Co show. Teases, which are brief snippets of songs incorporated into jams, add a layer of playful anticipation. Seamless transitions between songs create a sense of continuous flow, transforming the concert into a single, cohesive musical journey. By closely observing the setlists from a specific tour, you can see how the song selections have evolved over the course of those shows.
Comparison to Grateful Dead
How does Dead & Co song choice stack up to The Grateful Dead song choice? The catalog is vast, but Dead & Co is more likely to play “Touch of Grey” than The Grateful Dead ever did.
The Fan Connection
The culture surrounding Dead & Co setlists is a fascinating phenomenon in itself. Deadheads are known for their meticulous tracking and analysis of setlists, creating online databases and forums where they dissect every song choice and every improvisation. Sites like setlist.fm and various Deadhead archives serve as invaluable resources for fans who want to delve deeper into the history of Dead & Co performances.
Setlist Obsession
This “setlist obsession” stems from the inherent unpredictability of Dead & Co shows. Knowing that no two shows are ever the same creates a sense of excitement and anticipation. Fans often describe it as “chasing the dragon,” constantly seeking that perfect setlist, that one magical combination of songs that will elevate the experience to another level.
Ultimately, a Dead & Co setlist is much more than just a list of songs. It’s a symbol of connection. It’s a conversation between the band and the audience. It’s a shared journey through the rich musical landscape of the Grateful Dead, reimagined and revitalized for a new generation. One fan said, “For me, seeing ‘Help on the Way > Slipknot! > Franklin’s Tower’ is a religious experience. It takes me somewhere special, a place I can’t find anywhere else.” Another added, “It’s not just about the songs themselves, but how they’re played, the energy in the room, the connection with the band. The setlist is just the starting point.”
Looking Ahead
The future of Dead & Co setlists is undoubtedly intertwined with the band’s ongoing evolution. While the Grateful Dead catalog will always remain the foundation, there’s potential for Dead & Co to explore new sonic territories. The potential for the band to add their own original material remains a tantalizing prospect. Regardless of what direction they choose, one thing is certain: Dead & Co will continue to reinterpret the Grateful Dead catalog in new and interesting ways, ensuring that the music remains fresh and relevant for years to come.
The lasting appeal of Dead & Co lies in their ability to honor the legacy of the Grateful Dead while forging their own unique identity. Each show is a celebration of music, community, and the enduring power of improvisation. A Dead & Co setlist isn’t just a list of songs; it’s a roadmap to an unforgettable musical experience, a testament to the magic that happens when talented musicians come together to create something truly special. The songs are just the beginning, it’s the journey that is the true reward.
