Grateful Dead co-founder Bobby Weir finally returns to Cincinnati after fifty-two years! He spent six decades touring, jamming out, and producing records with the Grateful Dead. He returns not under the Grateful Dead name, but as Bobby Weir and The Wolf Bros. A trio formed in 2018 with the one and only Bob Weir on vocal and guitar, Don Was on double bass and Jay Lane on drums.

Naturally the event was hosted by the same organization that hosted them 50 years ago; The Cincinnati Music Hall. The venue if famously home to the Cincinnati Pop Orchestra, the “pop” counterpart is the Cincinnati Symphony, which performs lighter, crossover, and popular‑music programs. In a recent event, Bob Weir and the Wolf Bros featuring The Wolfpack partnered with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. To bring fans a concert like no other.

Like most concerts of today, they cost money. Tickets were on sale from fifty to five-hundred dollars. A bit extreme, but then again there are certain individuals that are willing to spend thousands of dollars to see their favorite artist live. The venue itself contained three floors of available seating, and no matter where you sat you would still have an excellent view of the stage. The one thing that did set this event apart from others was the available VIP packages. If purchased the first fifteen rows would have access to a sound check before the show started, an invitation to the VIP lounge, and a premium merchandise gift. Which happened to be a portable JBL Clip 4 speaker with the insignia of a red lightning bolt, a unique gift that proves the dead will be forever imprinted in their music.

The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra started the show with "A Grateful Overture." A song that was produced by an Italian composer that is not included on any Grateful Dead or Bob Weir album. It is a blend of various songs sung by the Grateful Dead as well as some classical elements which makes this song the perfect introduction for the night. The creator of the song Giancarlo Aquilanti once said, “It sets the audience to the right mood.”

As I prepared myself for what would be an extradentary night, I wondered about two things how would elements of rock and orchestral roots mix together and would the set list reflect top songs from the Dead’s collection. Well, I quickly realized that the setlist was full of songs that represented Bob Weir, Grateful Dead’s growth as a band, and in typical fashion improvision throughout.

As the trio entered the stage the audience immediately gave a standing ovation for a solid minute. It truly goes to show that an artist with fifty plus years of experience still has the respect and gratitude of his fans. As they settled in, they began with the iconic “Jack Straw,“ which was first included on the Europe 72’ album. A tune written by Bob Weir and Robert Hunter, it was with this song the theme of the night was set.

In the last minutes of the first set, they ended with "Truckin'." Probably one of the most well-known tunes in the Grateful Dead collection. The crowd erupted in cheers as the familiar opening chords filled the air. In unison everyone began singing. Their voices were blending with the band’s performance. Fans gathered at the front of the stage swaying to the music. It was like a true Grateful Dead concert.

My favorite moment came following the end of intermission, when the band preformed an unusual version of “Shakedown Street.” They reprised the typical groovy bass line and turned it into a jaw dropping sound, that cannot be explained unless you were there. Since the first time I listened to this song, I absolutely loved it. I still remember the day I found a bootleg Dead tape at a record store, that was my first live listen. This song will forever be engrained in me.

This couldn’t be a Bob Weir concert without his first song written for the Dead; “The Other One.” This song held a special place in the Dead's archive, capturing Bob's place in the band. A staple song known for its unpredictable live performances, it truly showcased the unique style that Bob brought to the night.

The band finished off set two with the melody of “Dark Star,” a reprise of “Uncle Johns Band,” which turned into a reprise of “Playing in the Band.” A notable set of songs to perfectly end a remarkable night.

Overall, the concert was an amazing experience. The combination of traditional folk elements and orchestral instrumentation created a unique and immersive sound. The fusion of these groups showcased versatility and what happens when music is elevated to new heights. This will forever be a concert that I will hold close to my heart.