Summary of "Enjoying the Ride: East Coast, Part 1" - The Good Ol’ Grateful Deadcast
Release Date: May 8, 2025
Introduction: Exploring the East Coast Legacy
In the eleventh season of "The Good Ol’ Grateful Deadcast," hosts Rich Mahan and Jesse Jarno delve into the extensive East Coast history of the Grateful Dead, as highlighted in the newly released box set, Enjoying the Ride. This episode, titled "Enjoying the Ride: East Coast, Part 1," focuses on the band's performances and influence from the East Coast, providing fresh insights for both new listeners and lifelong Deadheads.
1. Enjoying the Ride Box Set and Related Releases
Rich Mahan begins by expressing gratitude to fans for the overwhelming response to the Enjoying the Ride box set, which has sold out. He encourages listeners to explore additional content through the Music Never Stopped release, which offers a condensed version of the box set featuring at least one song from every venue included. This set celebrates the band's Diamond Anniversary and includes multiple formats available from May 30 via rhino.com. Additionally, a new Grateful Dead Greatest Hits compilation is announced, set to release on June 13, serving as an accessible entry point for newcomers.
2. The Unique Flavor of East Coast Shows
The episode emphasizes the distinctiveness of the Dead's East Coast performances compared to their West Coast counterparts. Jesse Jarno remarks, "Those who have been to Dead shows on the East Coast say they have a unique flavor all their own, much different from West Coast shows" (00:35). The discussion highlights six classic East Coast venues that were pivotal in shaping the band's live legacy.
3. Fillmore East: The Heart of Dead's East Coast Presence
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the Fillmore East, an iconic venue where the Grateful Dead solidified their presence in the Northeast. David Lemieux notes, "It took the Dead about a year and a half to work their way up to a headlining slot at the 2600 capacity Fillmore East, taking over top billing by the end of 1969" (10:05). The band’s repeated performances throughout the early 1970s are attributed to their strategic approach, focusing on frequent engagements to build a loyal fanbase.
Notable Quotes:
- Ned Lagin (08:11): "It was kind of mind blowing to see how the band resonated with the people on the other side of the country."
- Howie Levine (06:48): "Giant Stadium actually wasn't too bad. But I remember the traffic getting into some of these places was excruciating."
4. The Capitol Theatre in Portchester: A Touring Destination
Transitioning from the Fillmore East, the podcast explores the significance of the Capitol Theatre in Portchester, a venue that became a tour favorite for Deadheads from New York City. Lemieux describes it as "one of the first tour-like destinations for New York City Deadheads" (26:08). The Capitol Theatre's intimate setting, with a capacity of around 2,400, contrasted with the larger Fillmore East, provided a different atmosphere that fostered a strong sense of community among attendees.
5. Madison Square Garden: A Musical Crossroads
Madison Square Garden (MSG) emerges as another focal point, representing the pinnacle of the Dead's East Coast performances. Initially hesitant to play such a large venue, the band eventually embraced MSG, headlining five-night runs in the late 1980s. Howie Levine shares his experience attending the September 16, 1987, MSG show, stating, "One of the best shows in 1987. The show included on the new box set" (70:21). The podcast highlights how MSG became a melting pot for various musical influences and notable guest appearances, enhancing the Dead's reputation as a versatile and enduring band.
Notable Quotes:
- Jesse Jarno (23:55): "Here's Jerry Garcia and Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, here today to say to you that we're sorry."
- Gary Lambert (54:54): "They started playing the garden in 79, which is amazing. It took them 14 years to play here."
6. Intersections with Other Musical Legends
A recurring theme is the Grateful Dead's interactions with other legendary musicians, reinforcing their status as a musical crossroads. The podcast recounts encounters with figures like Ornette Coleman, Cecil Taylor, and Allen Ginsberg during their MSG runs. Henry Kay narrates a remarkable evening where both Ornette Coleman and Cecil Taylor attended the Sept 20, 1987, show, leading to impromptu collaborations and backstage interactions. This convergence of jazz and rock legends underscores the Dead's influence and willingness to bridge diverse musical genres.
Notable Quotes:
- Henry Kay (85:34): "Ornette thought there was a place beyond listening, like he thought listening and reacting could stand in the way of music moving forward."
- Ned Lagin (89:29): "Allen Ginsberg photographing Jerry Garcia backstage was a significant connection."
7. The Legacy and Evolution of Sound at MSG
The evolution of the Dead's sound at MSG is discussed, particularly the transition to in-ear monitors in the 1990s, which improved vocal clarity and overall audio quality. Howie Levine reflects on the advancements in sound engineering, noting how front-of-house engineer John Cutler enhanced the mixing process: "Cutler came on board in March of '94. Very different sound. Slightly more mono at times, very stereo, but slightly more consolidated sound" (109:36).
8. Audience and Cultural Impact in New York
The vibrant Deadhead community in New York is highlighted, with anecdotes illustrating the seamless integration of Dead culture into the broader fabric of the city. Ron Rackow describes the unique "outlaw energy" on the East Coast, characterized by a blend of anti-authoritarian spirit and open expression: "It felt almost more like attempts at authority had been so thoroughly dissolved. There was no act of rebellion necessary" (74:47).
Notable Quotes:
- Ron Rackow (93:58): "There's no shakedown. There was just chaos outside the venue, but there was no central location for it."
- Jesse Jarno (77:59): "The vibe in Madison Square Garden in the '80s and '90s was unmatched in part because of one of the venue's signature architectural elements."
9. Final Reflections and Closing
As the episode concludes, the hosts reflect on the enduring legacy of the Grateful Dead's East Coast performances. They emphasize the band's ability to create unforgettable musical experiences and foster deep connections with their audience across various iconic venues. Rich Mahan wraps up by thanking the guests and contributors, acknowledging the rich tapestry of stories that continue to define the Grateful Dead's storied history.
Conclusion: A Journey Through Grateful Dead's East Coast Odyssey
"Enjoying the Ride: East Coast, Part 1" offers an immersive exploration of the Grateful Dead's influential presence on the East Coast. Through detailed narratives, personal anecdotes, and expert insights, the episode captures the essence of the band's enduring legacy, their unique relationship with iconic venues like Fillmore East and Madison Square Garden, and their role as a central figure in the cultural and musical landscape of the East Coast.
Notable Final Quotes:
- Rich Mahan (119:07): "Thank you very much for tuning in to this episode of the Good Ol’ Grateful Deadcast."
- David Lemieux (117:21): "Oftentimes, the Dead's drummers would count out the day of the month during the song's intro tonight for the last of 346 known versions, counting Mother McCree's Uptown Jug champions, but not counting studio takes or sound checks."
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the rich discussions, key events, and memorable insights shared in the episode, providing a thorough overview for those who haven't yet tuned in.