Gloversville was vibing high on March 8th as Neon Avenue took the stage at The Glove Theatre, delivering a night of music that left the crowd buzzing. For both the band and the venue, this show was a special occasion—Neon Avenue was thrilled to perform at such a historic and beloved theater, and the Gloversville community welcomed them with open arms.
From the moment seasoned Deadheads began filling the room, it was clear this was going to be a special night. Neon Avenue isn’t just another Grateful Dead tribute band—they’re “Deaducated” musicians who dig deep into the catalog, playing versions of songs that capture the essence and energy of the Dead’s legendary live performances.
The band—Doug Klein (drums), Mike Urbon (rhythm guitar/vocals), Joe Davis (lead guitar/vocals), Mike Cassels (bass/vocals), and Mike McDonald (keys/vocals)—delivered two powerful sets that showcased their deep knowledge of and passion for the music.
One of the standout moments of the night for me was their take on “Eyes of the World”, performed in the full 1974 breakdown jam style, leading seamlessly into “St. Stephen” that led to an instrumental version of “The Eleven.” They also surprised even the most dedicated Deadheads by pulling out lesser-played gems like “Cats Under the Stars” and “My Brother Esau” in the middle of “Cumberland Blues.” To close out the night, they encored with “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down”, a song by The Band—but, in the style of the Jerry Garcia Band.
Neon Avenue isn’t just a tribute band; they are true musicians who honor the spirit, improvisation, and depth of the Grateful Dead’s music while making it their own. Their ability to weave together iconic jams and surprise their audience with deep cuts makes them a must-see act. The Glove isn’t just a concert venue either, it’s a whole vibe. Originally opened in 1914, The Glove Theatre has hosted countless performances across all genres, making it a cornerstone of the local arts scene. After its revitalization in 2021, the venue has been thriving under the care of a nonprofit organization and a dedicated team of volunteers. Every event is a labor of love, brought to life by passionate individuals who believe in the power of live music. A key force behind this resurgence is Kathleen Perrott, President of the Board of Directors, and her husband, Rico, who have championed the 518 Concert Series, bringing incredible talent to the stage. The Glove is more than just a venue—it’s an experience, a must-visit destination for music lovers.
If you missed them at The Glove, don’t worry—you can catch them at this year’s Rock The Dock Music Festival with Umphrey’s Mcgee in Lake George, which promises to be an unforgettable day of music. Keep an eye on their schedule because this is one band you don’t want to miss. Keep an eye on The Glove’s schedule too, they’ve got an amazing lineup happening every month!
All the best,
Penny Piper
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