Don’s Pick: A Legendary Night at Alpine Valley, The Grateful Dead, July 19, 1989

Get ready for another incredible journey into the vault of live Grateful Dead recordings. This Saturday night on Dead Set Live, Don’s Pick takes us to the revered Alpine Valley Music Theatre in East Troy, Wisconsin, for the performance on July 19, 1989. This show is consistently praised by fans as one of the standout performances from that year and a prime example of the Dead’s late-era prowess.

The July 19, 1989 show holds a special place in the hearts of many Deadheads, particularly due to its inclusion—however limited—in the iconic Downhill from Here concert video. While the video primarily features footage from the July 17 performance, the energy and musical excellence of the July 19 show are well-documented and highly celebrated.

This performance is particularly noted for several standout renditions that showcase the band’s tightness and emotional depth during this period. The July 19 rendition of “Althea” is often highlighted for its fluidity and soulful delivery, capturing the essence of the song with precision.

Furthermore, the band delivered a memorable “West L.A. Fadeaway,” demonstrating their blues-rock mastery. However, perhaps the most talked-about moment of the evening is the powerful and moving performance of “Morning Dew.” This emotional anchor of the set demonstrates the band’s ability to weave profound narratives through their music, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

Tune in to Dead Set Live this Saturday night to hear Don’s complete selection and experience the magic of the Grateful Dead at Alpine Valley on July 19, 1989.