Althea (Live at Lakewood Amphitheater, Atlanta, 5/28/2023) – Dead & Company

First off, I refuse to call it “Cellairis Amphitheatre at Lakewood.” It’s just Lakewood, damnit. I wish not every stadium was sponsored by some corporation these days. Out of the teams I support, my beloved Auburn Tigers are the only ones who still have a classically named stadium with Jordan-Hare. And another thing, it’s pronounced “Jerdan”, not “Jordan.” Okay. Back to the music.

“Althea” might be the only song that I would say Dead & Co. do a bit better than the Grateful Dead themselves. Shoot me. Even floating that idea is sacrilege to some, but I think you have to give respect and credit where it’s due. Let me preface that bold claim with that I am no expert on either band, and I listen to way more Grateful Dead than Dead & Co., but maybe I just haven’t heard the “ultimate” version of “Althea” performed by the OGs. I will say this as well, “Althea” may be the only GD song that I prefer the studio version to the live renditions. If my history is correct, Jerry was pretty heavy into drugs at the time they would’ve been touring the song, so maybe that has something to do with it? I really couldn’t say. Furthermore, the version I selected to feature today is a personal favorite because it was recorded at a venue that I really enjoy. John Mayer has really grown on me in the past few years, and there is no denying his playing ability. His voice also complements this song really well.

Atlanta Audio – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6jKL__ANX8

Orlando – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Npi1zPDgG8s

Studio Dead – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZNZgtj26Fk