Grateful Dead: Truckin' Up To Buffalo

Grateful Dead: Truckin' Up To Buffalo is a concert film released in 2005 that captured the Grateful Dead performing live at their legendary concert at Rich Stadium in Buffalo, New York on July 4, 1989. The film marks the band's first full-length concert on DVD and VHS.

The film features the final lineup of the band, consisting of Jerry Garcia on lead guitar and vocals, Mickey Hart on drums and percussion, Bill Kreutzmann on drums, Phil Lesh on bass and vocals, Bob Weir on guitar and vocals, and Brent Mydland on keyboards and vocals. The concert was part of the band's summer tour in support of their 1989 studio album, Built to Last.

The concert itself is an incredible showcase of the Grateful Dead's mesmerizing live performances. The band plays a number of their greatest hits, including "Jack Straw," "Tennessee Jed," "Cumberland Blues," "Eyes of the World," and many more. The first set opens with the upbeat and energetic "Bertha," followed by the groovy "Greatest Story Ever Told" and fun "Mississippi Half-Step Uptown Toodeloo." The first set concludes with my personal favorite of the evening, a blistering version of "Deal."

The second set opens with "Playing in the Band," an uptempo jam that allows the band to stretch out and explore the song's many different musical themes. This segues into the emotional and melodic "Uncle John's Band," which provides a beautiful contrast to the first song. The highlights of the second set, however, are undoubtedly the medley of "Terrapin Station" and "Drums," followed by "Space" and "I Will Take You Home." These four songs are a true testament to the band's musicianship and chemistry, as they weave together different musical passages and themes to create a truly mesmerizing experience.

The final part of the concert features some of the band's most beloved songs, including "The Other One," "Wharf Rat," and "Turn on Your Love Light." Each of these songs provides the band's members with the opportunity to showcase their individual talents, whether it's Jerry Garcia's poignant guitar playing, Phil Lesh's thumping bass lines, or Bob Weir's soulful vocals.

Grateful Dead: Truckin' Up To Buffalo is a visually stunning film that captures the band's performance in stunning high-definition. The camera work is spectacular, with the film providing a real sense of immersion as you feel like you're right there in the audience with the thousands of other Grateful Dead fans. Additionally, the film features interviews with the band members and footage of the band while on tour, giving viewers a rare glimpse into the band's lives offstage.

Overall, Grateful Dead: Truckin' Up To Buffalo is an absolute must-watch for any fan of the band. It's an incredible showcase of the band's live prowess, featuring some of their greatest hits performed with nuance and skill. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the band, this film is a truly remarkable experience.