Every Saturday night, fans of live music and the Grateful Dead gather around the radio for a highly anticipated show, Don’s Pick. This celebrated radio program features the best live performances by the Grateful Dead, and each week, Don selects a legendary concert that showcases the band’s unparalleled musicianship. This week, Don’s Pick takes us to the heart of France, with the Grateful Dead’s electrifying performance at the Parc des Expositions on September 18, 1974.
The Legendary 1974 European Tour
The Grateful Dead’s 1974 European tour is considered one of the most iconic chapters in the band’s storied history. A true gem among the many exceptional shows from this tour, the live performance at Parc des Expositions stands out for its energy, spontaneity, and the band’s unrelenting passion. The Dead were in the midst of their tour promoting Wake of the Flood, their critically acclaimed album released earlier that year. The performances from this period are known for blending intricate musical exploration with raw, unbridled energy—traits that have become synonymous with the Grateful Dead’s legacy.
Parc des Expositions, located in the vibrant city of Grenoble, France, was an unforgettable setting for this performance. With its intimate atmosphere and enthusiastic crowd, the venue provided the perfect backdrop for the Grateful Dead to dive deep into their rich catalog of songs.
Dead Set Live: A Saturday Night Tradition
For those who may not be familiar, Dead Set Live is a beloved weekly radio show that brings the magic of the Grateful Dead’s live performances into the homes and hearts of listeners every Saturday night. Hosted by the passionate and knowledgeable Don, the show has become a fixture for Deadheads who crave the sound of the band in their prime.
Don’s Pick is the highlight of the show, where he selects one standout concert from the band’s immense archive to play in its entirety. These shows are chosen for their historical significance, incredible performances, and their ability to transport listeners back to the magical moment when the band was at their peak.
Grateful Dead at Parc des Expositions – September 18, 1974
The Grateful Dead’s performance at Parc des Expositions on September 18, 1974, is widely regarded as a show where everything clicked. From the opening notes to the final encore, this concert offers an unforgettable snapshot of the band’s remarkable ability to blend precision with spontaneity.
The setlist includes a stunning mix of fan favorites and experimental jams. Songs like “Eyes of the World” and “Uncle John’s Band” are played with a sense of urgency and freedom, allowing the band to explore new musical territory in real-time. Each member of the band, from Jerry Garcia’s intricate guitar work to Phil Lesh’s thunderous bass lines, seems to be in perfect sync, creating a seamless flow between each song.
One of the standout moments of the show is the band’s extended jam in “Playin’ in the Band,” which showcases their uncanny ability to build tension and release it in a way that only the Dead could. The music flows in waves, taking listeners on a journey through a myriad of sonic landscapes before settling into the familiar rhythm of “Uncle John’s Band.” The transition from one song to the next feels effortless, highlighting the band’s extraordinary musicianship and connection with one another.
Why This Show is Don’s Pick
Don’s Pick this week is an essential listen for any Deadhead or music lover. The Grateful Dead’s performance at Parc des Expositions is the epitome of what makes the band so special: their ability to take the audience on a musical adventure that is both unpredictable and deeply moving. Every note played is imbued with the sense of adventure that defined the Dead’s live shows, where anything could happen, and often did.
The energy of the audience, the improvisational brilliance of the band, and the timeless quality of the music all come together to create a listening experience that is not to be missed. Don’s Pick this week offers a rare chance to hear one of the Grateful Dead’s finest moments in Europe, captured in all its glory. For those who were there in 1974, it’s a chance to relive a pivotal moment in the band’s history. For those new to the world of the Dead, it’s an introduction to the magic that made them legends.
Tune in to Don’s Pick This Saturday
Don’s Pick on Dead Set Live is not just a radio show; it’s a celebration of the Grateful Dead’s enduring legacy and the spirit of live music. Whether you’re a long-time Deadhead or a newcomer to the band’s music, Don’s Pick this week is an unmissable experience. Tune in this Saturday night, and let the Grateful Dead take you on a journey back to 1974, where magic was made live at the Parc des Expositions.
Don’t miss this legendary performance, only on Dead Set Live.
