For the first Deadpod of 2017, I decided to go back to the first show of 1972.. January 2nd, 1972.. As Bill Graham says in his introduction 'there aren't many groups that would get us to come out on January 2nd'.. but I bet the folks who came out on this night were glad they did as they turn in a sparkling performance, highlighted, for me, by some great work by Pigpen.

At the beginning of what will be a monumental year in Dead history, the band brings us a ripping first set which we are fortunate to have in a great soundboard recording. Mr. Charlie, Jack Straw, Big Railroad Blues and Next Time You See Me are just a few of the highlights here. Playing in the Band is here as a first set number; it hadn't yet developed into the monster jam vehicle it would become later in the year, but still nicely played. I'll bring us set 2 next week..

Winterland Arena, San Francisco, CA (1/2/72) Truckin' Sugaree Mr. Charlie Beat it on Down the Line Loser Jack Straw Chinatown Shuffle Tennessee Jed El Paso You Win Again Big Railroad Blues Mexicali Blues Playing in the Band Next Time You See Me Brown Eyed Women Casey Jones

You can listen to this week's Deadpod here:

http://traffic.libsyn.com/deadshow/deadpod010617.mp3

Thanks for your kind support of the Deadpod!

For everyone, like me, in the midst of Winter - stay warm!