Greensky Bluegrass brought their electrifying sound and Halloween spirit to The Refinery in Charleston, SC, on October 31, 2024. With the band dressed as skeletons and the stage lit with an eerie glow, the atmosphere was set for a night that balanced Greensky’s signature improvisational prowess with the whimsical edge of Halloween.
Set One kicked off with a haunting rendition of “Bonedigger,” a fitting start that resonated with the ghoulish theme of the night. The energy carried seamlessly into “Wish I Didn’t Know” leading into a compelling “Reuben’s Train,” showcasing the band’s technical brilliance and ability to weave stories through their strings. The emotive “Windshield” followed, reminding the crowd of Greensky’s knack for blending introspection with dynamic bluegrass rhythms.
“While Waiting” and the cleverly irreverent “Give A Shit” kept the momentum alive before the band launched into the first-time-played (FTP) “Diggin’ Up Bones,” an unexpected delight that had the crowd roaring. Transitioning smoothly, the set concluded with a powerful “Living Over,” punctuated by intricate solos and soaring harmonies.
Set Two was a continuation of the spirited spectacle, opening with a playful “Please Don’t Bury Me” that rolled into “Demons” and the darkly tinged “I’d Probably Kill You,” which then morphed into a Halloween surprise with “Ghostbusters.” This tongue-in-cheek cover, complete with playful instrumentation and crowd participation, was a standout moment that showed Greensky’s sense of humor and range. The set maintained its intensity with “Kerosene,” before diving into the contemplative “Forget Everything” and the hauntingly atmospheric “Screams.”
The set’s closing trifecta of “Bring Out Your Dead,” “Monument,” and a heart-thumping encore of “Broken Arrow”—played for the first time and dedicated to Phil Lesh—left the crowd in awe. The encore closed with “Solstice,” a fitting nod to transitions and the cyclical nature of life, tying the thematic elements of the night together with precision and beauty.
The performances of “Diggin’ Up Bones” and “Broken Arrow” were particular highlights, both marking their debut in Greensky’s repertoire and offering unique emotional peaks. “Broken Arrow,” dedicated to Phil Lesh, resonated deeply with fans of both Greensky and the Grateful Dead, serving as a beautiful tribute bridging musical generations.
Charleston was treated to more than just a concert; it was an experience rich with musical exploration, thematic whimsy, and heartfelt homage. The band’s skeleton attire and clever song choices added a layer of fun, proving that Greensky Bluegrass not only commands the stage musically but knows how to create an immersive live show that lingers long after the final notes fade.
