Without a Net cover

Without a Net

Grateful Dead · 1990

131 min · 14 tracks · psychedelic rock

A sprawling tapestry of improvisational rock, blending lyrical storytelling with intricate musical interplay.

Why this album works

The album peaked at number 45 on the Billboard 200 chart, highlighting the sustained popularity of the Grateful Dead even in their later years. 'Without a Net' is also notable for its almost two-hour runtime and features extensive improvisational segments that exemplify the band’s live concert experiences.
Best for
long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys layered, dense sonic textures
Context
Released in 1990, 'Without a Net' captures the Grateful Dead's essence during a time of transition, as it was their first live album since the death of keyboardist Brent Mydland in 1990. This album showcases the band's deep commitment to live performance and improvisation, reflecting their ongoing evolution as a cornerstone of American rock music.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Feel Like a Stranger 7:32
  • 2 Mississippi Half‐Step Uptown Toodeloo 8:00
  • 3 Walkin’ Blues 5:44
  • 4 Althea 6:55
  • 5 Cassidy 6:36
  • 6 Bird Song Standout 12:57
  • 7 Let It Grow 11:54

Disc 2

  • 1 China Cat Sunflower / I Know You Rider 10:24
  • 2 Looks Like Rain 8:03
  • 3 Eyes of the World Standout 16:14
  • 4 Victim or the Crime 8:04
  • 5 Help on the Way / Slipknot! / Franklin’s Tower Standout 18:57
  • 6 One More Saturday Night 4:50
  • 7 Dear Mr. Fantasy 5:44

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata