By someone who just wants to be Statler & Waldorf in the balcony
On a magical Wednesday night in Cohoes, NY, the legendary Melvin Seals & the Jerry Garcia Band delivered a performance that was nothing short of spiritual inside the beautifully nostalgic Cohoes Music Hall. Built in 1874, this historic gem has been hosting concerts for well over a century, and it’s the perfect place for a night like this—ornate balconies, intimate acoustics, and a vibe that just makes your heart feel good.
If I could live up in that balcony like Statler and Waldorf from the Muppets (yes, those two old guys heckling from the box seats), I absolutely would. It’s my dream. The view, the acoustics, the energy—pure magic.
The crowd was full of beautiful Deadheads, decked out in their absolute finest— roses, tie-dye, patchwork, and glowing hearts. It was a Wednesday, but you wouldn’t know it. It felt like Saturday night at the Fillmore. A true who’s who of local musicians packed the room. The energy was high, the vibes were higher, and the music was transcendent.
From the jump with “We Be Jammin’”, the band set a tone of joy and groove. “Struggling Man” (a Jimmy Cliff cover) hit heavy with soul, followed by the funky, feel-good vibes of “Rhapsody in Red.” And then… “Luce Lucy.” When they kicked into that, the whole place leaned in. Melvin Seals on keys, doing what only he can do—melting hearts while making you dance.
They closed the first set with a glowing version of “Franklin’s Tower.” The whole room was swaying, clapping, singing—“roll away the dew” became a chant, a prayer, a celebration.
Set two opened with “After Midnight” (a J.J. Cale cover) that ripped. They came back swinging and didn’t let go. And then the moment everyone will remember: “No Woman, No Cry.” Every voice in that beautiful old theater was singing. JGB didn’t just play it—they felt it. We all did. They reminded us, “Everything’s gonna be alright,” and in that moment, it truly was.
The energy carried through “Tore Up Over You” and a heartfelt “When I Paint My Masterpiece,” before the band took us to church with “My Sisters and Brothers.” Pure gospel soul from start to finish.
Then came the finale—a journey through “Help on the Way” that slid into a tight, winding “Slipknot!” with a tasty little Franklin’s Tower tease at the end. A nod to where we started, tying the night up in perfect Grateful Dead fashion. Full-circle magic.
John Kadlecik’s vocals and guitar work were hauntingly close to Jerry—it was like hearing the man himself. That signature tone, that gentle rasp, that soul. He transported us. Alongside Melvin Seals, who is truly the keeper of this flame, the rest of the lineup—John-Paul McLean on bass, Jeremy Hoenig on drums, -were absolute pros, carrying the spirit of JGB with power and grace.
And we can’t leave out Greg Bell and Guthrie Bell Productions, who made this night possible. Their shows are always special, but this one felt personal. Thank you, Greg, for another night that felt like home.
This wasn’t just a concert—it was a gathering. A moment in time. A bridge between generations. I’m so damn glad I was there.
Let’s do it again soon. Preferably from the balcony.
– Statler… or Waldorf. Doesn’t matter. I’m ready.
All the best,
Penny Piper
Gallery:
