It really improves our performances on every level….the best possible combination of performance, venue, and recording studio”
– Jerry Garcia (lead guitarist and vocalist for the Grateful Dead)
Finally, after much deliberation, I was offered an opportunity to visit the south shore’s preeminent local music venue: Soundcheck Studios. Several of my friends, colleagues, and local business owners had given the establishment raving reviews, but I remained skeptical.
Every Wednesday, a Grateful Dead cover band affectionately named “Playing Dead,” headlines the venue. So, as a fan of Jerry and the gang, I decided this was my chance to check out the scene and report my findings to you for your consideration. After all, Soundcheck was designed by and for local musicians, to give the listener an incredible overall experience – what’s not to love about that?
I pulled into the parking lot at 7:30 pm and already liked what I was starting to see. Tie-dye shirts, good vibes, lots of conversation, and smiles – a recipe for what looked to be a very promising start of the evening. As I approached the door, I was greeted by several fans, local vendors selling authentic Grateful Dead t-shirts and collectibles, and the Soundcheck doorman.
“Foodies South Shore?! They told me you were coming! Rad, man – tonight is going to be a great show – these guys rock.”
As I walked away one guy yelled, “they’re the best Grateful Dead cover band, period!” I was also informed there were no food trucks scheduled for tonight’s show, but I definitely need to come back for another show accompanied by food trucks and local beers.
I strolled over to the bar and was pleased that it was an indeed a fully stocked bar, with all of the essentials, as well as Stellwagen Airwaves on tap (good job Mike, Dave, and Zap!). The venue is massive, gargantuan. An upstairs with a retro Pac-Man video game console, pool tables, another massive bar, and signed musician memorabilia. I was very, very impressed.
Playing Dead started promptly at 8:00 pm and rocked for three hours; they played classics like He’s Gone, Truckin’, Not Fade Away, Casey Jones, Cassidy, Greatest Story Ever Told, Mama Tried, and many more great jams – Jerry would be happy.
If you live on the south shore and love music, good vibes, great people and great beer you need to give Soundcheck a visit – I promise, you’ll be back.
