Grateful Dead

On November 20, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Henry J Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland, California, during a particularly prolific phase in their career. Prior to this concert, the band released their album *In the Dark* in 1987, which marked a significant moment in their history as it featured the hit single "Touch of Grey," bringing them a new level of commercial success. By 1985, the Grateful Dead were well entrenched in their live performance reputation, known for their extended improvisational jams and dedicated fanbase. The concert is nicknamed the "Acrobatic Bobby Show" after a memorable performance by Bob Weir, showcasing the band’s playful spirit. This period was characterized by a mix of their iconic early sound and an evolving musical identity that later culminated in *In the Dark*. The live recording exemplifies their distinctive blend of rock, folk, and jazz influences, affirming their legacy as pioneers in the jam band scene.

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