Honoring Dawg music, along with David Grisman and Jerry Garcia's legacy, is at the heart of the Sam Grisman Project. The group was founded by Grisman's incredibly gifted son, Sam, who is a chip off the old block with seamless transitions between electric and upright bass. It helped that he was in the room when some of these timeless compositions were penned, but Sam put in the time to hone his craft.

Coming into Oh Brother, I wasn’t familiar with Dawes’ earlier work. I am not privy to how they flow or what the themes might have been. I hadn't experienced the flows of their past albums, but certain lyrics always stuck with me. One in particular stands out: "Yes, you can stare into the abyss, but it’s staring right back." (When My Time Comes)

On a balmy October evening, the Lobero Theatre served as the perfect venue for a musical odyssey led by the legendary Herb Alpert and his equally talented partner, Lani Hall. At an impressive 89 years of age, Herb Alpert remains a towering figure in the music world, celebrated not just for his illustrious career but also for his profound contributions to art and philanthropy. The concert was a heartwarming testament to his legacy, delivered with a blend of nostalgic charm and vibrant creativity.

Legendary performer Tom Jones graced the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles on Monday night, October 7th, marking his long-awaited return to the city after a two-year hiatus and his first performance at this iconic venue since 2018. The 84-year-old music icon took the stage with his impressive band of blues-rock musicians, delivering a mesmerizing set filled with hits and heartfelt covers from artists who have shaped his illustrious career.

Friko, man. Fucking brilliant.

Friko’s 2024 album Where We've Been, Where We Go From Here is one of the most interesting, emotional, and exciting albums of 2024. It’s everything rock is supposed to be. Anthemic, loud guitars? Check. John Lennon-ish angst and introspection? Check. Earwormy, Paul McCartney-ish melodies? Check. Youthful passion, poetry, and poignancy? Check.

It’s almost certain that no musical act in history has produced as many “cover” bands as the Grateful Dead. In nearly every major city in America, as well as countless smaller towns and rural communities, Dead cover bands regularly celebrate the music of that storied band. Some are long-established lineups of cats who gather regularly down under the stars; some are catch-as-catch-can pick-up bands.

On the evening of October 4, 2024, the iconic band The Commodores took the stage at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, California, delivering an electrifying performance that transported fans through decades of funk and soul. With an illustrious and enduring history in music, The Commodores’ presence was a testament to their status as legends in the industry.

In West Marin County, California, on Saturday afternoon, a benefit performance by Skeleton Krewe, a unique trio (Stephen Inglis, Barry Sless, and Rob Barraco) in which each member possesses decades of high-level Grateful Dead-esque experience, was enhanced by the presence of two powerhouse musical guests (Pete Sears and Jay Lane), both of whom have displayed their own improvisational prowess seemingly forever.

On September 30, 2024, the iconic folk/blues duo Hot Tuna graced the stage of the historic Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara, delivering a night of timeless and exhilarating music. Known for their blend of Americana, blues, and rock, Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady once again proved their enduring talent and connection with the audience.

Maybe it’s just me, but I think we all have a favorite cover of one of our favorite songs. In fact, there are a few covers I actually prefer over the originals—though I won’t mention any titles. To me, a cover is like your favorite variety pack of adult beverages—same base, different flavor. I could grab any of them at random because I love them all. And I can confidently say I loved all ten of these tracks.