The Greek was a great place for intimate live music, and provided many of my favorite shows; a month after this show, I saw Jimmy Buffett there on his SOMEWHERE OVER CHINA tour. Van Morrison performed here in 1986 and 1990. John Lee Hooker dueted with Joan Baez at a BREAD & ROSES benefit here in 1989 or 90. Seeing a band at the Greek was almost like being at a Dead show whoever the performer: Andreas Volleweider, Kitaro, Yes ... even Love & Rockets and King Crimson played there in the 80s.

This is the run that set a pattern for the 80s: in late spring or early Summer, the Dead would play three days at the Greek: Fri - Sat - Sun. Friday would be at 7:00, allowing us to retain our jobs; Sat would be at 5:00, giving us room to party afterward, and Sun would be at 3:00 -- allowing us time to go home and come down, and getting to bed in time for our Monday routine.

This was perfect for those of us who had jobs in the area. 5-21-82 was my second show, and one for which I had breathlessly waited after my first taste in 1981. Hearing the tapes more recently, I felt vindicated: the Greek '82 run is strong and thrilling, and fully justifies the enthusiasm I had for the band for years to follow. Too bad I don't have photos: the company of friends, the sunny warmth of the Greek Theatre bowl, the view from the grassy hill on the top. Hey, if you were there, you know; if not, you have similar memories of your own: other places and times, maybe other bands.

"It's always a nice day for a blessing"