We all have a connection to the songs of The Band, even if it was an old classic Americana song such as Long Black Veil that they covered.They were one of the few great rock bands that could draw on so many influences and introduce it to the modern rock audience. I was very lucky to see The Band open up for the Grateful Dead on the last night of the Dead's fall tour of 1983. This entire show from that night has been part of my soul ever since and seeing the Band that night, for the first time as well, was an enormous part of it. When they busted out " The Shape I'm In" they had us all up on our feet clapping and boogieing.
It was as clear a Watkin Glen reunion we would ever see, being in upstate New York and such, and both bands did not disappoint. The Band did open two shows later in the year and here is that performance, which is exceptional and is very similar to the show I saw. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30B1tb9g4GU
In 1984 the Band also open two shows in Ontario, Canada and the last two Grateful Dead performances at Soldier's Field in 1995. The Band's set that night in Syracuse was high energy and faithfully played, as this new Band was just hitting the road and with the Cate Brothers as part of the band. This updated version may have been better than original in many ways.
The Last time I saw Levon play was at the free concert they would played as a tradition at Gill's Farm in Hurly, New York each October. I saw the show in 2009 and it was really special as they played It Makes No Difference, which his daughter Amy sang. During this song a giant turkey vulture flew right over us all.Made you have to wonder if Rick was dropping by? I do regret never making it to a Ramble over the last couple years as I know from many people they were quite special. Levon we will miss you but you will never be forgotten brother.
Here is a shot from that crisp fall day in 2009.
Here was the set list from the concert from 10/22/83
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- Encore:
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