It’s time to celebrate spring by turning our attention to the music of the good old Grateful Dead, specifically the 1981 spring tour. Early ’80s shows can be hit and miss, but when the band was on, it was really on, such as this complete first set from May 9th at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York.
It opens with a blistering Half Step > Franklin’s Tower > Stranger, and closes in similar form with a fantastic Looks Like Rain > China Cat > Rider. In between is a real nice version of Birdsong, an early Rooster and Candyman. It’s just about 90 minutes of vintage Dead to please your ears, so as always, enjoy!