Beloved pianist Holly Bowling cut her teeth creating solo piano renditions of Phish compositions and improvisations, and has continued to make a name for herself at shows across the country. Bowling took her piano interpretations to the next level when she announced Better Left Unsung, a second album release devoted to the music of the Grateful Dead.
With the album due out this Friday, December 9th, Bowling took the stage at the famed Terrapin Crossroads in San Rafael, CA to celebrate the new release. The venue choice has obvious historical significance, being owned by the Dead’s bassist, Phil Lesh. With that in mind, Bowling put on a masterpiece two set performance that focused solely on the music of the Grateful Dead. The show included some unique references to the Grateful Dead’s career, including “The Beautiful Jam” from 2/18/71 and the “Eyes Of The World” from 6/18/74, the latter of which is featured on the album.
Fortunately for us, Holly Bowling shared live videos from her Terrapin performance for us to enjoy. Check them out below, and head here to order the album!
Setlist: Holly Bowling | Terrapin Crossroads | San Rafael, CA | 12/7/16
Set 1: Unbroken Chain, Help on the Way > Slipknot! > Cryptical Envelopment > The Other One > Cryptical Envelopment > Terrapin Station Suite > Lost Sailor > Saint of Circumstance
Set 2: Bird Song * > Dark Star > Wharf Rat** > The Beautiful Jam # > Dark Star > Slipknot! > Franklin’s Tower, Eyes of the World (6/18/74) > China Doll
E: Cassidy *
# First time performed by Holly. This jam is from the Dead’s 2/18/71 Cap Theater show.
* w/ The Other One tease
** w/ Terrapin tease