Photo Credit: Taryn Ferro // Aw, Snap Photography

On Sept. 20, Spafford took the stage at Bijou Theatre in Knoxville, Tenn. where they performed a funk-fueled version of the Grateful Dead’s “West L.A. Fadeaway.” The performance marked the first time the band played the tune with their new keyboardist, Cory Schechtman, and a bust out for the band, who ended a 113 show gap from the last time they performed the In The Dark classic.

Before hitting their stride during the favorable cover “West L.A. Fadeaway,” which was first released in 1987 on the San Francisco jamband’s 12th studio album, Spafford announced that they had “made a new friend” in the night’s guest, Rossdafareye, who doubled as the opener for the night. The funk singer came out to add his powerful, raspy vocals to the tune, which blended perfectly with guitarist Brian Moss’ riffs. The two seemed to be having a conversation throughout the song that turned into an amazing jam, with Schechtman giving a bluesy and rhythmic solo.

The band stayed true to the original recording’s funky back-beat and strong bass line, but they certainly added their own personality, with fiercely active drums and a wider guitar sound to make the tune fit their own creative, groovy style. Moss was able to let loose throughout most of the jam, while still allowing time for the song to breathe and Rossdafareye to carry the familiar tune. 

Spaffords latest gigs doubled 2023 fall tour enders, though the ensemble are expected to return to the stage on Oct. 19 at The Pub Station in Billings, Mont., leading up to their highly-anticipated holiday performance, schedule to take place at The Get Down in Portland, Ore., over three days, Dec. 29, 30 and 31.  For more information on their tour and tickets, go here.

Watch a pro-shot video of the band’s take on “West L.A. Fadeaway” below.