Choosing Trey to fill those lofty shoes ended up being a decision everyone in attendance and streaming the shows at home would fully understand as the shows played out. However, did they reach the best possible musical peak they could, given Jerry’s absence? Yes. Did they sound like they did during the peak years with Jerry? I think we all know the answer to that.

However, over 5 night run it became clear that Chicago was where the Dead really rose to the levels that solidified them as one of the best in the game, even after 50 years. There were certainly some strong points and deep jams from Santa Clara. With all due respect to arguably the best band in rock n roll history, in the grand scheme of the five night run, this would primarily serve as a live rehearsal for the final three concerts over the Fourth of July weekend in Chicago. The Eyes of the World lay on the Dead as they hit the stage for the first of their five “Fare Thee Well” run of shows, kicking off in Santa Clara. Grateful Dead 50 “All The Years Combine, They Melt Into a Dream” Pt.

Grateful dead longest drums space