the Grateful Dead
The challenge for the Boston Pops in this program is obvious: combining the structure of orchestral music with the improvisational nature of Garcia’s work. On Tuesday, the pairing of rock band and orchestra proved to be uneven, groovy interludes interlaced with tentative patches.
Thanks in large part to the late Phil Lesh’s influence, the performances of the Grateful Dead developed a signature blend of composition and improvisation.
Until this album, I had no idea that the Grateful Dead and salsa could blend together with such force and fun.
Day of the Dead upends stereotypes and expectations, providing a compelling, exploratory trip through the Grateful Dead songbook.
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