Dead and Company’s Orlando, Florida show

Last night in Orlando, Dead and Company wrapped their originally planned December 7th show with a bang. To finish off what now became the last show of Dead & Company’s fall tour after John Mayer underwent emergency surgery in December 2017. They started the night off right and jumped in with a beautiful “St Stephen” out of the gate. With a start like that, you know you are in for a treat. That lead directly into Bob Weir going after “Hell in a Bucket.”

They continued the 1st set with Mayer taking the lead for “Next time you see me” and the student handing it back to the master for an on point “Ramble on Rose.” The energy of the crowd continued to build with “Row Jimmy”, “Loose Lucy,” “Brown Eyed Women” and everyone coming together for an absolutely fantastic “The Wheel,” Mayer teased in to Paul Simon’s “You Can Call Me Al” which was almost immediately noticed by bassist Oteil Burbridge. They captured the essence of a jam band and went full bore with the very unexpected blend. As the band worked together on this interesting twist it was clear that Dead and Company is only getting better.

The 2nd set began with a big roar from the crowd as Bobby & John joined forces for “China Cat Sunflower > I know you Rider.” In perfect unison and feeding off of each other I believe it to be one of the best I have seen from Dead & Company. It was only to be followed by what appears to be Mayer’s favorite to play, “Althea.” He always performs that song at the highest level & leaves no room for doubt on his musical abilities.

From there the crowd sang along for “Estimated Prophet> Lady with a Fan> Terrapin Station” Mickey & Bill took over the reins for the never disappointing “Drums/Space.” Bobby came back with “Wharf Rat” which lead to the very popular “Casey Jones.” Although not one of my personal favorite songs, the City of Orlando was thrilled with the selection. The night concluded with an encore of “U.S. Blues.”

After the last few weeks in Florida & the devastation we have experienced it felt a very appropriate song choice to end their tour and time in Florida. From supporting MSD in Sunrise and sharing the love in Orlando I am speaking for the state when I say “thank you for a real good time.”

Signed a Proud Florida Deadhead
Set One: St. Stephen, Hell in a Bucket, Next Time You see Me (cover), Ramble on Rose, Row Jimmy, Loose Lucy, Brown-Eyed Woman, The Wheel, You Can Call Me Al (cover)

Set Two: China Cat Sunflower > I Know You Rider, Althea, Estimated Prophet, Terrapin Station, Drums, Space, Wharf Rat, Casey Jones

Encore: U.S. Blues