Joe Russo’s Almost Dead Dusts Off ZZ Top’s ‘La Grange’ In Dallas

Why It Matters

The surprise ZZ Top cover showcases JRAD’s genre‑bending appeal, attracting both jam‑band fans and classic‑rock audiences, while reinforcing the value of live‑streamed concerts for regional tours.

Key Takeaways

• JRAD performed ZZ Top’s “La Grange” in Dallas, second live rendition.
• Marco Benevento sang lead, Tom Hamilton mimicked Billy Gibbons’ solo.
• Set included Grateful Dead staples and Allman Brothers’ “Jessica” encore.
• Texas run concludes in New Orleans; livestreams available for Nugs subscribers.

Pulse Analysis

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead has built a reputation for reinterpreting iconic songs through a jam‑band lens, and the Dallas performance of ZZ Top’s “La Grange” underscores that talent. By weaving a 1970s Texas classic into a set dominated by Grateful Dead favorites, the band bridges generational gaps, drawing in listeners who might not otherwise attend a jam‑band show. This cross‑genre strategy not only diversifies their fan base but also highlights the enduring relevance of classic rock in contemporary live music ecosystems.

The Dallas setlist was a masterclass in curating a dynamic concert flow. Opening with “Bertha” and moving through staples like “Feel Like a Stranger” and “Uncle John’s Band,” JRAD kept the energy high before slipping into a surprise cover that let Marco Benevento step into the vocal spotlight. Tom Hamilton’s guitar work paid homage to Billy Gibbons, while the Allman Brothers’ instrumental “Jessica” as an encore reinforced the band’s willingness to explore Southern rock roots, creating a cohesive narrative that resonated with the Texas audience.

Beyond the music, the Texas‑Louisiana run illustrates the growing importance of hybrid concert experiences. With livestreams available to Nugs subscribers, the band extends its reach beyond venue walls, tapping into a digital revenue stream that complements traditional ticket sales. As the tour heads to New Orleans, JRAD’s blend of surprise covers, classic jam repertoire, and online accessibility positions them as a forward‑thinking act in a market where live‑event innovation is increasingly vital.