Joe Russo’s Almost Dead isn’t just another cover band. It’s a tight-knit group of top-tier musicians who’ve turned the music of the Grateful Dead into a full-on experience. If you’ve ever felt like the Dead’s spirit still lives on, you’re not alone—and this band is living proof of that. Whether you're a long-time Deadhead or just starting to explore the world of psychedelic rock, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead brings that iconic sound straight to the stage, night after night.

So, if you’re curious about who’s playing what, where they’re headed next, or what makes them stand out in the world of tribute acts, you’ve come to the right place. This is more than just a band—it’s a movement, a celebration, and a deep dive into the music that shaped generations.

Let’s talk about what makes Joe Russo’s Almost Dead tick, who’s in the lineup, and why they’ve become a must-see live act for fans all over the country. Whether you’re chasing your next concert fix or just want to know what the buzz is all about, this band is definitely worth your time.

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Table of Contents

• Biography: Who Is Joe Russo?
• Band Members of Joe Russo’s Almost Dead
• What Makes Them a Grateful Dead Tribute Band?
• What’s New in the 2025 Tour?
• What’s the Live Experience Like?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography: Who Is Joe Russo?

Joe Russo is more than just the drummer of Joe Russo’s Almost Dead. He’s a key figure in the modern jam band scene, known for his powerful rhythms, improvisational skills, and deep connection to the music he plays. Before forming JRAD, Russo was part of the Benevento/Russo Duo and later played with Furthur, another well-known band that carried the torch of the Grateful Dead.

Over the years, Joe has become known for his ability to bring energy and emotion to the drum kit in a way that few others can match. His style is both technically precise and deeply expressive, making him a favorite among fans who appreciate the Dead’s rhythmic complexity and improvisational spirit.

Band Members of Joe Russo’s Almost Dead

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, often shortened to JRAD, is more than just Joe Russo. It’s a full band made up of some seriously talented musicians who all bring something special to the table. Together, they’ve created a sound that’s both faithful to the Grateful Dead and uniquely their own.

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Here’s who’s currently playing with Joe on stage:

• Marco Benevento – Keys
• Dave Dreiwitz – Bass
• Tom Hamilton – Guitar
• Scott Metzger – Guitar
• Joe Russo – Drums

Each of these players has a rich history in the jam scene, and together they’ve built something special. Their chemistry on stage is electric, and their love for the Dead’s music comes through in every note they play.

What Makes Them a Grateful Dead Tribute Band?

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead is often referred to as one of the best Grateful Dead tribute bands around, and for good reason. Unlike some cover bands that just play the hits, JRAD dives deep into the Dead’s catalog, bringing a mix of energy, emotion, and improvisation to every performance.

Here’s what sets them apart:

• Deep Song Selection – They don’t just stick to the popular tunes. JRAD often pulls out rare gems and deep cuts from the Dead’s massive discography.
• Live Improvisation – One of the hallmarks of the Grateful Dead was their ability to stretch songs into long, exploratory jams. JRAD keeps that tradition alive with their own improvisational style.
• Passionate Performances – Whether they’re playing a small club or a big festival, the band brings a level of energy and emotion that feels like a true celebration of the music.
• Respect for the Originals – They’re not trying to copy the Dead note for note. Instead, they reinterpret the songs while still honoring the spirit of the originals.

In a way, JRAD is like a modern-day jam session of the Dead, keeping the music alive for new audiences while giving longtime fans something fresh to enjoy.

What’s New in the 2025 Tour?

If you’re wondering what’s coming up next for Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, the good news is that the band isn’t slowing down. In fact, they’ve just announced a new string of dates for their 2025 tour, and it’s shaping up to be one of their most exciting yet.

The 2025 run kicks off in Austin, Texas, and wraps up in New Orleans, Louisiana. New Orleans has become a kind of annual homecoming for JRAD, where they always bring the house down with a high-energy, crowd-pleasing set.

Some highlights of the upcoming tour include:

• Three May Dates – These shows are a chance for fans to catch JRAD in the spring, before the summer festival season really heats up.
• Midwest Stops – The band is hitting some Midwestern cities that have become fan favorites over the years.
• Annual New Orleans Finale – This has become a tradition, and it’s one of the most anticipated shows of their calendar year.

If you’re planning to catch them live, tickets usually go fast, especially for the bigger venues. It’s worth keeping an eye on their official site and ticket vendors like CashorTrade to grab your spot before they’re gone.

What’s the Live Experience Like?

If you’ve never seen Joe Russo’s Almost Dead live, you’re definitely missing out. Their shows are known for being high-energy, musically tight, and full of the kind of improvisational magic that made the Grateful Dead so legendary in the first place.

What makes a JRAD show special isn’t just the music—it’s the whole vibe. Fans come dressed in tie-dye, glow sticks fly during big jam moments, and the crowd sings along to every word. It’s a communal experience, where everyone feels like they’re part of something bigger than themselves.

Some things you can expect at a JRAD concert:

• Long Jams – Just like the Dead, JRAD loves to stretch out their songs, sometimes turning a 5-minute tune into a 20-minute journey.
• Surprise Covers – While they focus on the Dead, they sometimes throw in unexpected covers that keep the crowd guessing.
• High-Energy Finale – Their sets often end with a bang, leaving fans buzzing long after the last note fades.

A JRAD show is more than just a concert—it’s an experience. It’s a place where fans come together to celebrate music, community, and the joy of live performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Joe Russo’s Almost Dead a real band or just a side project?

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead is a full-fledged band with a regular touring schedule and a dedicated fanbase. While each member plays in other projects, JRAD is a consistent and active group that tours regularly and puts on high-energy live shows.

2. Do they play original music or just Grateful Dead covers?

While they’re best known for their Grateful Dead covers, some members of JRAD also play in bands that write original music. However, when it comes to Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, the focus is almost entirely on the music of the Grateful Dead, though they sometimes throw in a surprise cover or two.

3. Where can I buy tickets for Joe Russo’s Almost Dead shows?

Tickets are available through official vendors like CashorTrade and on their website. If you’re planning to attend one of their shows, it’s a good idea to set up alerts so you don’t miss out when tickets drop. For the latest updates, you can also visit their official site.

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