Last night, a particularly poignant celebration of Jerry Garcia was held at the famed San Francisco, CA venue, The Warfield, hosted by none other than his former solo band. Led by Melvin Seals, who joined up with Garcia in 1980, the JGB continues to honor Garcia’s passion project, performing the music that was played at his Jerry Garcia Band shows so long ago.
Despite not knowing who Garcia was at their first meeting, Seals has faithfully bared the torch for over 20 years since Garcia’s death, bringing his music to fans across the country. Their performance at The Warfield holds some extra significance, held in the heartland of San Francisco, de facto hometown for all things Grateful.
The show was filled with special guests, only adding more significance to the tribute. JGB vocalists Gloria Jones and Jackie LaBranch were in attendance for the show, helping to power up some of the gospel-tinged classics in the JGB catalog. Bassist Oteil Burbridge was also in attendance, as he’s recently come into his own with the Grateful Dead scene as the bassist for Dead & Company with Garcia’s former bandmates. Guitarist Stu Allen joined in as well, perhaps best known for his role as a member of the Terrapin Family Band alongside Phil Lesh.
Check out a video from the night of the band played “What A Wonderful World,” courtesy of Must Have Media.
Additional video clips can be seen below!
[Photo posted by Oteil Burbridge]