By Karen Dewalt
Philadelphia’s high energy Grateful Dead (and other jawns) tribute band, aptly named “Jawn of the Dead,” braved the cold rain and snow to perform their unique take on Classic Dead and other tunes at the Atlantic City Rock Club on Friday, Jan. 19. Approximately 150 people made the trek to AC, some traveling as far as Delaware.
Tracey G, from Hatboro PA said, “I just love this band. I’ve been going to their shows for the last 4 years and watched them evolve into one of Philly’s top Grateful Dead tribute bands. Their jams take me to that special place and I knew their debut at the Anchor Club was going to be amazing so there was no hesitation for me driving 2 hours in a snowstorm to feel that energy.”
In 2019, guitarist Rich Hill gathered together a select group of musicians to perform a “one off thing” at The Fainting Goat in Delaware County, PA. They quickly captured the hearts of area Deadheads. By the end of the night the band realized they stumbled upon something special. Their synergy was so strong they knew they had to continue. Along with Hill on lead/rhythm guitar, JOTD features Jim Tauscher on lead/rhythm guitar, Jim Shaflucas on bass guitar, John Bigham (JB) on keyboard, Joe McGuth on percussion and Rosalind Rose on vocals.
While the chilly winds were blowing outside, it was hot inside as the band took stage. Apropos for the weather, the band started their set with “Cold Rain and Snow.” As the dance floor filled up with eager Deadheads, the familiar bass line of “Boogie On Reggae Woman” floated through the air. Originally composed by Stevie Wonder, the song was a favorite for Jerry Garcia’s side project, the Jerry Garcia Band, to cover.
After a heavy jam, Miss Rosalind Rose took center stage and regaled the crowd with a bluesy “They Love Each Other.” After another JGB cover of “Reuben and Cherise,” Rosalind once again took lead vocals of “No Rain,” a Blind Melon song. Grateful Dead standards “Bird Song,” “El Paso” and “Loser” followed, with Rosalind channeling her inner Janis Joplin for “Me and Bobby McGee.”
After a short set break, Jawn of the Dead took the stage, opening with “Crazy Fingers,” another cold reference, alluding to the conditions outside. “Eyes of the World ” was next, a vintage 1973 jam. This transitioned into “Can’t Find My Way Home” by Blind Faith. As a treat for Zappa fans (also frequently covered by the band Phish), Jawn performed the instrumental piece, “Peaches En Regalia.”
Beatles fans were not left out as “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” had everyone singing and dancing. “Hell In A Bucket,” a rousing “Franklin’s Tower” and the all time favorite “Shakedown Street” ended the set. Then cries of “Encore!” and “One more song” were heard throughout the venue. The band picked up their instruments, took their places on stage and ended the night with “Bertha,” another Grateful Dead classic.
Jawn of the Dead will be at Salty’s Beach Bar on Saturday March 9, 2024. They will return to the Anchor Rock Club on Saturday May 4, 2024. Tickets are available at jawnofthedeadband.com
