Melvin Seals and JGB brought their classic Jerry Garcia Band tunes to the sold out Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley, CA last Saturday night. Both Seals and the original Sweetwater venue have long time ties to Jerry Garcia, making this performance extra sweet for the band and fans alike.
The current rendition of the Sweetwater Music Hall was opened in 2012, and the ownership includes the likes of Grateful Dead guitarist Bob Weir. The venue has a storied history in Marin County, and was originally named Sweetwater Saloon. A popular hang out for musicians, this well known bar hosted the likes of Jerry Garcia, Carlos Santana and Elvis Costello. The venue closed in 2007, and re-opened down the street in Mill Valley’s Masonic Temple with new management in 2012, as part of an effort to revitalize the Marin County music scene. The new configuration includes an adjoined restaurant that is currently serving cajun inspired dishes.
The evening began with a packed house of friendly locals and residents from the greater San Francisco Bay Area, eager to hear their favorite Jerry Garcia Band tunes. They were not disappointed when an all smiles Seals emerged with his band, and delivered the classic “The Harder They Come,” originally by Jimmy Cliff. The energy slowed down for the next tune, “He Ain’t Give You None,” which also happens to be a cover by Van Morrison. Norton Buffalo’s “Ain’t No Bread in the Breadbox” as well as “Lonely Avenue” followed.
The feel good “Tore Up Over You,” originally by Hank Ballard and the Midnighters, brought smiles to many faces, and was proceeded by Peter Tosh’s “Stop That Train.” The energy kicked back up with “That’s Alright Mama.” The jam of the night was up next, starting with Jesse Stone’s “Don’t Let Go.” This transitioned into a tasty drum fueled segment titled “Drum World,” and subsequently “Goin Down The Road Feelin Bad.” The latter is a traditional song that was often played by the Grateful Dead.
The Meter’s classic “Hey Pockey Way” popped into the set, and had a nice, funky feel. Charles Johnson’s “Sisters & Brothers” got the crowd moving. The show closed out on a high note with “Ruben & Cherise.”
Melvin Seals and JGB put on a great show at the storied Sweetwater Music Hall, and is not to be missed. Hop on over to their tour page for more dates in your region.
Check out more photos from the show!
Setlist
The Harder They Come, He Ain’t Give You None, Ain’t No Bread in the Breadbox, Lonely Avenue, Tore Up, Stop That Train, That’s Alright Mama, Don’t Let Go > Drum World > Goin Down The Road Feelin Bad, Hey Pockey Way, Sisters & Brothers, Ruben & Cherise
