Grateful Dead Releasing Unreleased Concert Series "Friend of the Devils" in September
The Grateful Dead is releasing a new box set, "Friend of the Devils: April 1978", on September 20. This 19-disc set includes eight complete previously unreleased concerts from the post-hiatus era, when "Drums" and "Space" were becoming established as second-set traditions.
The Birth of a New Era
The Grateful Dead had released "Terrapin Station" the previous summer, and would soon return to the studio to begin work on "Shakedown Street", which followed in November 1978. Despite the releases not being huge hits, the band remained focused and energized on their tour, as noted by Grateful Dead archivist David Lemieux: "These eight shows tell the story of a band that was engaged, inspired and focused on bringing their A-game every single night… If there was ever a tour on which the Dead deliver every single moment, it’s this one."
The Concerts
The month-long tour featured a range of songs, from early favorites like "Dupree’s Diamond Blues" and "New Minglewood Blues" to more recent songs like "Jack Straw" and "Eyes of the World". The set also includes deep cuts like "It Must Have Been the Roses" and traditional songs like "Iko Iko". The shows also featured newer material, including "Estimated Prophet" and "Dancing in the Street" from "Terrapin Station", and "Fire on the Mountain" from the upcoming "Shakedown Street".
Where to Buy and Pre-Order
"Friendly of the Devils: April 1978" will be available exclusively from www.dead.net and is limited to 10,000 individually numbered copies. Pre-ordering is already underway. The set can be pre-ordered here: https://gd.lnk.to/FOTD478
Duke ’78 Track Listing
The separate release, "Duke ’78", will be available on September 20 in 3CD, 4LP, and digital formats. The track listing is as follows:
Disc One:
- "Jack Straw"
- "Dire Wolf"
- "Beat It On Down the Line"
- "Peggy-O"
- "Mama Tried"
- "Mexicali Blues"
- "Funiculi Funicula"
- "Row Jimmy"
- "New Minglewood Blues"
- "Loser"
- "Lazy Lightning"
- "Supplication"
Disc Two:
- "Bertha"
- "Good Lovin’"
- "It Must Have Been the Roses"
Disc Three:
- "Estimated Prophet"
- "Eyes of the World"
- Rhythm Devils
- "Truckin’"
- "Wharf Rat"
- "Around and Around"
- "U.S. Blues"
Conclusion
"Friendly of the Devils: April 1978" offers a unique glimpse into the Grateful Dead’s post-hiatus era, capturing the band’s energy and focus on their tour. With eight complete unreleased concerts, this set is a must-have for any Grateful Dead fan. Be sure to pre-order your copy today.
FAQs
Q: What is the release date for "Friend of the Devils: April 1978"?
A: The release date is September 20.
Q: Where can I pre-order "Friend of the Devils: April 1978"?
A: You can pre-order the set on www.dead.net and on other online retailers.
Q: Is "Duke ’78" a separate release?
A: Yes, "Duke ’78" is a separate release that will be available on September 20.
Q: Can I pre-order "Duke ’78"?
A: Yes, you can pre-order "Duke ’78" on www.dead.net and on other online retailers.
Q: What is the track listing for "Duke ’78"?
A: The track listing is included above.
Q: Will the set be available in physical formats only?
A: No, the set will also be available in digital formats.
