Phil Lesh and The Terrapin Family band came to Washington, D.C.’s newest venue, The Anthem, on Oct. 25, and put on a performance that showed just how much music can bring people together. Lesh, who is one of the founding members and bassist of the legendary band Grateful Dead, steers away from long tours and instead plays short stints and festivals which makes these shows that much more special. The Terrapin Family Band , which consists of Phil Lesh on bass and vocals, his son Grahame Lesh, on guitar and vocals, Alex Koford on drums and vocals, Ross James on guitar, and Jason Crosby on keys. They were also joined by Nicki Bluhm and Robert Randolph, who joined the Band for the entire show. The Band played two sets and was joined by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, who played the second set and performed two songs on their own. The Terrapin Family Band

During the show, the senior Lesh took the opportunity to talk about how lucky he was to be alive as he underwent a liver transplant 18 years ago and it was all thanks to a man named Cody whose name is displayed on the arm band he wears frequently. Cody saved eight lives due to organ donation, including Phil Lesh with his donation. Realizing how fortunate he was to be saved by Cody’s decision to be an organ donor, Phil Lesh also asked that everyone consider saving a life by doing the same.  

Overall, the show was what audiences have come to expect from the Grateful Dead type bands, which is one with an awesome atmosphere that welcomes everyone and has some of the most passionate fans in music. The Terrapin Family Band was completely in tune with each other as they performed their brilliant jams. They are clearly close and obviously love performing as well as bringing the music to the fans. This was made abundantly clear as they were frequently seen making eye contact and smiling as they felt each other out while making their way through the jams. 

Set List:

01. Mason’s Children

02. They Love Each Other

03. Broken Arrow

04. Second That Emotion

05. Passenger

06. What She Said >

07. Bertha

08. Cumberland Blues

09. Viola Lee Blues * >

10. The Other One * >

11. Monkey Man *

12. Throwing Stones *

13. La Malanga

14. Convergence

15. Lady With A Fan > Terrapin Station > Terrapin Transit > At A Siding > Terrapin Flyer > Jack O’ Roses >

16. I Know You Rider

17. Donor Rap

18. Ripple

*Preservation Hall Band