But as good as the first set is, the second half is where it is really at. That portion opens with a Shakedown for the ages. The rendition is filled with so much energy and verve, with Brent and Jerry busting out some funky ass shit, queuing up an incredible jam in the latter portion. Here the Dead are breaking new ground and, as they always were, laying out the template for the jam bands to come. Following that tour-de-force, the boys bust out a robust Samson and Delilah and then go into a short, but rich and powerful, Gimme Some Lovin’. The magic of the second set continues with an estimable He’s Gone, which segues into Cryptical, beginning a section that is about as close to a full Other One suite as the Dead get in the eighties. The Other One itself is jazzy and driving, a perfect product of the era with its electric dynamism. But the boys turn up the heady darkness in the tune a notch further and then just unload in the last few minutes. A contemplative and meditative Stella Blue comes out next with Jerry’s guitar just peeling back the layers and leading the band, and us, onwards. After a fun and upbeat Around and Around, the set ends with an out of this world Sugar Mags, redefining familiar landscapes with its pure energy and joy. While you might think there are better mid-80s shows, it would be hard to find a more inventive or luscious one.

Once again, Hunter Seamons has put together a tremendous matrix. Hearing the crowd react to Jerry’s spirited vocals on the opening Half-Step, absolutely roar along to Sugar Mags, and make their presence known throughout the night is special, particularly when the music is so crispy as well.