https://www.songtell.com/the-grateful-dead/saint-of-circumstance-live-at-nassau-coliseum-may-15-16-1980

The Haunting Beauty of "Saint of Circumstance": A Grateful Dead Concert Review

The Grateful Dead’s live performances are renowned for their unpredictability and energy, and the duo of shows at the Nassau Coliseum on May 15-16, 1980, were no exception. The setlists were diverse, ranging from fan favorites to exploratory jams, and showcased the band’s remarkable musical prowess. Among the standouts was a majestic version of "Saint of Circumstance," a song that has become an fan favorite.

The Background

"Saint of Circumstance" was originally released on the album Go to Heaven in 1980, to critical acclaim. The song’s lyrics, penned by Bob Weir, Bob Hunter, and John Perry Barlow, tell a poignant tale of self-discovery and the search for one’s true purpose. Musically, the track features a catchy melody and intricate guitar work, setting the stage for the jam sessions that would follow on the live performances.

The Nassau Coliseum Shows

The Grateful Dead took the stage at the Nassau Coliseum for two consecutive nights, eager to share their music with the enthusiastic crowd. On the first night, they played a blistering 32-song set, which included a scorching rendition of "Saint of Circumstance." This particular performance featured a captivating 12-minute jam that showcased the band’s versatility and chemistry.

A Jam for the Ages

As the song’s signature melody gave way to an instrumental break, the Dead embarked on a mesmerizing journey. Garcia’s soaring guitar solo was the perfect conduit for the band’s exploration, as they wove a tapestry of sounds that was both structured and free-form. The drums of Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart provided the perfect foundation, while Jerry’s guitar work was infused with a sense of improvisational freedom.

Percussion and Harmony

One of the most striking aspects of this performance was the interplay between Bob Weir’s rhythm guitar and Phil Lesh’s melodic bass lines. The two musicians created a dynamic tension that was simultaneously harmonic and discordant, drawing the listener into the song’s emotional core.

A Fan Favorite Eulogized

On the second night, the band returned to "Saint of Circumstance" for an encore, performing an equally impressive 17-minute version. This show demonstrated the song’s flexibility, as the band teased and prodded their way through various musical tangents. The audience responded enthusiastically, singing along to the chorus and acknowledging the band’s mastery of this iconic tune.

Experience and Reflection

As someone who has had the privilege of experiencing the Grateful Dead’s live performances on numerous occasions, I can attest to the transcendent power of "Saint of Circumstance." It’s a song that taps into the very essence of the human experience, urging us to question our purposes and seek out our higher selves. When performed with the level of passion and intensity displayed at the Nassau Coliseum shows, the song becomes a catalyst for collective introspection and connection.

Conclusion

The Grateful Dead’s performances are always a testament to their ability to push boundaries and redefine the possibilities of live music. The two shows at Nassau Coliseum in May 1980 were a testament to this, showcasing the band’s versatility and energy. "Saint of Circumstance" was one of the highlights of the concerts, with its hypnotic melody and jam-tastic explorations cementing its place as a fan favorite.

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