Grateful Dead members Phil Lesh and Bob Weir have formed a new band called Furthur with drummer Joe Russo, Dark Star Orchestra’s “Jerry” – John Kadlecik and RatDog members Jay Lane & Jeff Chimenti. The group will make their debut performances at the recently renovated Fox Theater in Oakland on September 18-20. The GDTS TOO mail order starts on Saturday so read here for instructions in you’re interested in checking out this lineup.
There’s lots of interesting observations to be made about this lineup. First, it appears Phil and Bobby have gotten over the tensions that kept them apart for years. Also, Kadlecik plays in the most successful Dead tribute band of all-time and this is a big set of gigs for him but if this group plays more shows will it hinder DSO from touring? Finally, it’s surprising that Russo, who wasn’t exactly happy with the exposure that touring with Mike Gordon and Trey Anastasio of Phish gave him, would sign up to play with members of the other huge jam act. Hopefully for his sake people don’t start calling out for Franklin’s Tower at Duo shows.
What remains to be seen is whether the band will play any shows beyond the Fox run. Rumors have been circulating lately that Phil had a hold on the Nokia for his traditional November Philathon. Will those shows be with the lineup he’s toured with the past few years or with this group of musicians? I guess we’ll find out soon enough, but it sure doesn’t look like The Dead will be touring this fall.
What do you think of this lineup? Leave a comment to let us know…
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