Joe Russo’s Almost Dead (often abbreviated as JRAD) has become one of the most compelling bands in the modern jamscene, offering vibrant reinterpretations of the music of Grateful Dead. Formed in 2013 in Brooklyn, New York, the group brings together seasoned musicians who share a deep understanding of the Dead’s legacy while infusing their performances with fresh energy, improvisational boldness, and a spirit of exploration. Whether you are a longtime Deadhead or new to the scene, JRAD stands out for its ability to honor the past while forging its own path.
Origins and Formation
The journey of Joe Russo’s Almost Dead began somewhat unexpectedly. In January 2013, drummer Joe Russo already known for his work with the Benevento/Russo Duo and with Furthur pulled together a group of longtime collaborators for a oneoff set at Brooklyn Bowl as part of the NYC Freaks Ball. The resulting lineup included Russo on drums, keyboardist Marco Benevento, bassist Dave Dreiwitz (known for his work with Ween), guitarist/vocalist Scott Metzger and guitarist/vocalist Tom Hamilton (of Brothers Past and American Babies). What began as a fun sideproject quickly evolved into a serious band focused on paying homage to the Grateful Dead’s songbook while adding their own take on improvisation and set structure.
The Band’s Mission and Approach
JRAD describes itself as a Grateful Dead cover band, but in truth its approach is more expansive. The band uses the Dead’s repertoire as a jumpingoff point for wideranging improvisation, genrebending jams, and extended musical journeys. Their setlists might include classic Dead songs such as Terrapin Station, Eyes of the World or I Know You Rider, but they often stretch, mutate, and explore them in surprising directions resulting in a live experience that is both nostalgic and forwardleaning.
Lineup and Musical Team
The current core lineup of Joe Russo’s Almost Dead includes
- Joe Russo drums & vocals
- Marco Benevento keyboards & vocals
- Dave Dreiwitz bass & vocals
- Scott Metzger guitar & vocals
- Tom Hamilton guitar & vocals
This configuration provides a rich palette of textures two guitars for melodic and rhythmic interplay, a strong keyboard layer, a dynamic rhythm section, and vocals split across multiple members. The result is a flexible, improvisationfriendly structure that allows each show to become its own unique journey.
Evolution of the Band
From modest beginnings, JRAD’s trajectory has seen them grow from clubs to major festivals. They began playing a handful of dates in 2013, then expanded through 2014 and 2015 with appearances at festivals such as Gathering of the Vibes, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass and Hulaween. In subsequent years they took on larger venues and national tours, building a dedicated fan base that spans both dedicated Deadheads and newcomers alike.
Live Performance and Fan Experience
A live show by Joe Russo’s Almost Dead is more than a concert it’s an immersive experience. Their sets commonly include deep improvisation, segues between songs, and unexpected covers. According to reviews and fan commentary, JRAD shows often feel like a party with virtuosic playing and communal energy.
Typical Setlist and Format
While no two shows are the same, some patterns emerge in JRAD’s performances
- Multiple sets in the evening (often two or more) with each set lasting 1.5 2 hours.
- Setlists built from Grateful Dead originals, but with regular surprises such as nonDead covers or rare songs.
- A flow that prioritises improvisation and group interplay rather than strict songbysong structure.
For example, their 2025 tour slate includes multiple NorthEast shows and festival appearances, demonstrating their ongoing demand and touring momentum.
Critical Reception and Influence
Joe Russo’s Almost Dead has earned critical acclaim in both jamband circles and mainstream outlets. Rolling Stone, for instance, named their 2018 Peach Music Festival performance a best scenestealer, highlighting how the band brings improvisational jam rock to the nth degree. Their reputation rests on three key pillars musical proficiency, respectful reinterpretation of the Dead’s catalogue, and highenergy live performances.
Why They Stand Out
Several factors set JRAD apart in the jamband/tributespace
- Each member is a seasoned musician with broad experience outside JRAD, bringing skill and confidence to the project.
- Rather than simply mimicking the Grateful Dead, JRAD embraces the spirit of improvisation and reinvention, creating versions of songs that feel both familiar and fresh.
- They build a sense of community and spontaneity in shows fans often speak of unique moments and onetime collaborations that make each performance special.
Challenges and Considerations
Even with their success, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead faces some of the typical challenges of both tribute and jambands. Some fans of the original Grateful Dead may view interpretations cautiously, while newcomers may find the improvisational length of songs unfamiliar. Additionally, like many touring bands, they must balance expectations of authenticity (playing beloved Dead songs) with innovation and musical risk-taking.
Navigating Expectations
For fans attending a JRAD show, it helps to come openminded expect familiar titles, yes, but also expect wideranging jams, tempo changes, unexpected transitions, and highenergy moments. The band thrives on spontaneity rather than formula. Reviews indicate that the willingness to depart from the original structures is part of the appeal, even if it means not every performance aligns with strict Deadhead doctrine.
Future Outlook for JRAD
Looking ahead, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead appears poised to continue its growth. Recent announcements show new tour dates across major cities, expanding festival appearances, and deepening fan engagement. Their willingness to evolve while staying rooted in the legacy of the Grateful Dead positions them well for longterm relevance in the jam band scene.
Potential Directions
- Further expansion into larger arenas and nontraditional venues as the fan base grows.
- Possible development of original material alongside the Grateful Dead catalog, offering new compositions in the band’s dynamic style.
- Collaborations and guest appearances JRAD already features guest artists and surprises in setlists, a trend likely to continue.
Joe Russo’s Almost Dead stands as a vibrant, forwardlooking band that pays tribute to the music of the Grateful Dead while carving its own identity. With mastermusicianship, improvisational zeal, and a growing live footprint, the group has earned its place in the jamband world and beyond. Whether you’re drawn to excursions through Terrapin Station, wild takes on Touch of Grey, or totally fresh interpretations of beloved classics, JRAD offers a concert experience that honors the past while embracing the present. For fans new and old, attending a Joe Russo’s Almost Dead show is an invitation to witness something familiar, something unique and something very alive.