Greensky Bluegrass delivered a dynamic two-night run at Red Rocks Amphitheatre this past weekend, September 13th and 14th, 2024, sending fans on a rollercoaster of jammed-out grooves, heartfelt melodies, and unexpected twists. As always, the band struck the perfect balance between bluegrass roots and exploratory improvisation, proving why they continue to reign as one of the scene's most captivating live acts.
The first night kicked off with the punchy opener, "Born Again," setting the tone for an evening filled with surprises. "Just to Lie" and "Take Cover" kept the momentum rolling before "Courage for the Road" reminded everyone that Greensky knows how to turn introspection into a collective experience. Then came the firecracker "Reverend," a show staple that spiraled into "Broke Mountain Breakdown," giving way to a raucous "Windshield." But the real treat was Paul and Holly serenading the crowd with a duet at front-of-house, a nod to the community spirit that permeates every Greensky show.
Holly Bowling is a force in the jam world, seamlessly blending classical training with improvisational mastery. Whether she’s taking the lead in solo performances, where her interpretations of Phish and Grateful Dead pieces have captivated audiences, or sitting in with bands like Phil Lesh and Friends or alongside Tom Hamilton, Holly consistently elevates the music. Her ability to both step into the spotlight and complement the groove of a full band is remarkable. She doesn’t just play the notes—she adds layers of emotion and depth, accentuating each performance with her unique touch. Her versatility and musical intuition make her an irreplaceable presence in any lineup she joins.
The second set picked up the pace, hitting harder with "Worried About the Weather" and the poignant "Monument." Then came a shift into fun territory with the California Honeydrops jumping in for "Miss September" and "New & Improved." It felt like an old-school get-together, the perfect vibe for Red Rocks' natural amphitheater setting. And for those who love a Dead nod, they closed it out with "Women Are Smarter." Yes, Harry Belafonte penned the original, and it’s important to give him the credit he deserves for the irresistible groove. But Dead fans in the crowd knew exactly where Greensky was taking it, and their debut of the song turned into a jam-laden romp, fueled by the Honeydrops' soulful energy. It was a fusion of genres and generations, making for the perfect cap to a night of musical magic.
Saturday took things to a new level. Kicking off with "Jaywalking," they eased into the night with a few crowd favorites, including the smokin' "Reuben's Train," before heating up with "Burn Them" and "Bottle Dry." By the time they hit "Love Will Not Change" into "Leap Year," it was clear the band was in full flight, pulling off one of those soaring Red Rocks moments that people talk about long after the music stops.
And then came the Dead—literally. Opening the second set with "Feel Like A Stranger," Greensky tipped their hat to Bob Weir and John Barlow with a blistering rendition that had the amphitheater swaying under the stars. From there, things stayed funky and wild. Andy Frasco and The U.N. joined for a raucous version of Garth Brooks' "Friends in Low Places," bringing a little honky-tonk madness to Morrison. But it was their take on REO Speedwagon’s "Roll With The Changes" that had the entire crowd belting out the chorus. A first-time play (FTP), it was the kind of curveball that had the energy dialed up to 11.
The night closed with the soulful encore "Grow Together," a fitting capstone to a weekend that saw Greensky flexing their musical range, from bluegrass to rock, from classic Dead to REO. Two nights of music that kept you guessing, dancing, and singing under that big Colorado sky—just the way Red Rocks was meant to be experienced.
