Concert Review: Joe Russo's Almost Dead Delivers a Thrilling Night at MGM Music Hall at Fenway
On September 24, 2026, Joe Russo's Almost Dead (JRAD) delivered an unforgettable night of music at MGM Music Hall at Fenway in Boston, Massachusetts. Drawing from the vast and improvisational catalog of the Grateful Dead, JRAD showcased the energy, creativity, and musical freedom that have made them one of the most celebrated tribute acts in the jam-band scene.
The Grateful Dead helped pioneer the jam-band tradition, creating music that remains highly open to interpretation. JRAD embraces that spirit while adding its own distinctive style and tremendous energy. Their extended jams flowed effortlessly throughout the evening, carrying the audience in unexpected and exciting directions.
Several thousand fans packed the venue for the performance. Joe Russo, best known for his work with Furthur, the band formed by Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Phil Lesh, as well as the acclaimed Benevento/Russo Duo, led the group from behind the drum kit with incredible skill and intensity.
Formed in 2013, JRAD features Joe Russo (drums), Marco Benevento (keyboards), Dave Dreiwitz (bass), Scott Metzger (guitar and vocals) qne Tom Hamilton (guitar and vocals).
Located steps from historic Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, MGM Music Hall has quickly become one of Boston's premier concert venues. The room provided the perfect setting for JRAD's dynamic performance.
The enthusiastic crowd was made up largely of longtime Deadheads, easily recognizable in their tie-dye shirts and free-flowing dance style. However, it was equally encouraging to see a younger generation of fans embracing the music and culture that have surrounded the Grateful Dead for decades.
JRAD opened the evening with a dark, exploratory jam before launching into a strong first set that included:
"Don't Ease Me In" (Henry Thomas cover)
"Lost Sailor"
"Saint of Circumstance"
"U.S. Blues"
"Playing in the Band"
"Touch of Grey"
Throughout the set, the band seamlessly blended improvisation with familiar melodies, keeping the audience engaged from beginning to end.
After a 15-minute set break, JRAD returned to the stage and delivered another masterful performance. The second set featured several fan favorites, including:
"Truckin'" (with elements of "The Other One" and "I Need a Miracle")
"China Cat Sunflower" (with a "Loose Lucy" tease)
"Eyes of the World" (featuring a "Hey Bulldog" tease)
"Dancing in the Street" (Martha and the Vandellas cover)
"Long Black Veil" (Danny Dill cover)
"Hell in a Bucket"
"Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad?" (Derek and the Dominos cover)
The band's ability to weave together songs, teases, and spontaneous improvisation created a set that felt both familiar and entirely unique.
For me, Joe Russo's Almost Dead stands above the many Grateful Dead tribute bands performing today. While no group can truly replace the magic created by Jerry Garcia and the original Grateful Dead, JRAD captures the adventurous spirit of the music better than any contemporary act I have seen.
With memories of Jerry Garcia and Bob Weir always attached to these songs, it's difficult to imagine a current band interpreting the Grateful Dead's catalog with more passion, creativity, and respect than Joe Russo's Almost Dead.
Their performance at MGM Music Hall at Fenway was a reminder that the music never truly stops. Through exceptional musicianship and fearless improvisation, JRAD continues to carry the Grateful Dead's legacy forward for both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.
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