On May 3, 1968, the Grateful Dead performed at Columbia University, a period notable for their rise as a prominent live act in the psychedelic rock scene. Leading up to this concert, the band had released their self-titled debut album in 1967, followed by "Anthem of the Sun" in 1968, which showcased their experimental approach to both studio and live recordings. The performance captured in the video highlights a pivotal moment when the Grateful Dead began to blend their unique improvisational style with more structured compositions. This era marked their transition towards becoming a legendary live band, as they honed their skills in improvisation and setlist construction, drawing large audiences and establishing a dedicated fanbase. Notably, this concert took place just before the release of "Aoxomoxoa" later in 1969, which further expanded their artistic palette. The performance of "The Eleven" from this concert exemplifies their innovative spirit during this exciting phase of their