Cal Expo Amphitheatre in The Sac on August 5, 1989
03 Aug 09:00 PM
Until 03 Aug, 11:45 PM 2h 45m

Cal Expo Amphitheatre in The Sac on August 5, 1989

Dead Set Live
Organized by Dead Set Live

The Grateful Dead's live performance at Cal Expo Amphitheatre on August 5, 1989, is a testament to their ability to craft dynamic and eclectic setlists that kept fans engaged throughout their extensive touring career. Let's delve into the setlist and explore the highlights of each segment:

Set 1:

  1. One More Saturday Night: A lively opener that often set the tone for an energetic evening.
  2. Cold Rain And Snow: A traditional folk song that the Dead often infused with their own improvisational style.
  3. We Can Run: A newer song at the time, showcasing the Dead's ability to integrate new material into their live shows.
  4. Stagger Lee: A bluesy narrative song that highlighted the band's storytelling prowess.
  5. Stuck Inside Of Mobile With The Memphis Blues Again: A Bob Dylan cover, demonstrating the Dead's affinity for interpreting folk and rock classics.
  6. Row Jimmy: Known for its gentle, introspective melody and heartfelt lyrics.
  7. Let It Grow: A sprawling, progressive song that often allowed for extended jams and musical exploration.

Set 2:

  1. Hey Pocky Way: A funk-infused tune that got the crowd dancing and showcased the band's groove-oriented side.
  2. Playing In The Band: A quintessential Grateful Dead song known for its intricate jams and improvisational sections.
  3. I Know You Rider: A traditional folk song often paired with "China Cat Sunflower," showcasing the Dead's folk roots.
  4. Terrapin Station: A monumental suite that was often a centerpiece of their shows, featuring intricate composition and lyrical depth.
  5. Drums: A percussion interlude where Mickey Hart and Bill Kreutzmann would showcase their rhythmic prowess.
  6. Space: An experimental segment where the band delved into avant-garde and atmospheric sounds, pushing the boundaries of their musical exploration.
  7. Standing On The Moon: A poignant ballad from their later catalog, featuring Jerry Garcia's emotive vocals and introspective lyrics.
  8. Throwing Stones: A politically charged anthem that resonated with the Dead's commitment to social justice and activism.
  9. Not Fade Away: A high-energy closer that often segued into extended jams and audience participation.

Encore:

  • U.S. Blues: A patriotic and celebratory song that often served as a joyful conclusion to their concerts.

The Grateful Dead's performance at Cal Expo Amphitheatre on August 5, 1989, exemplifies their ability to weave together diverse musical styles, improvisational prowess, and a deep connection with their audience. Each song in the setlist showcases different facets of the band's musical identity, from folk and blues roots to expansive jams and experimental segments. This concert is a testament to the Dead's enduring legacy as pioneers of live improvisation and communal music experiences.

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