Sam Grisman Project and Max Flansburg Honor Bob Weir with “Looks Like Rain” in Colorado

On Saturday, Jan. 10, Sam Grisman Project took the stage at Beaver Creek, Colo.’s Vilar Performing Arts Center, shortly after news broke of Bob Weir’s passing. Weir and the Grateful Dead have always been close to the heart of the jam-informed traditional string ensemble, and in memory of the late legend, the band honored that connection with a cover of Weir’s classic solo ballad “Looks Like Rain.”

“Last night as we were soundchecking, we learned of the passing of our hero Bob Weir,” Grisman and the band wrote in a post to their social channels on Sunday. “We are grateful that we were able to start processing and grieving by playing music surrounded by love high up in the mountains in Beaver Creek Colorado.

“Bobby’s influence on us goes far beyond just being one of the founders of one of our favorite bands of all time – he was a fearless adventurer, a man who committed his entire life to the music.”

Sam Grisman Project’s treatment of the beloved 1972 Ace standout featured guest vocals from frequent collaborator Max Flansburg, who led the band through a mournful and moving rendition. Each accompanist’s contributions underscore the gravity of the moment and demonstrate their shared love for Weir and his music, from John Mailander’s long, emotive fiddle bows to Rod Patrick Livingston’s tumbling dobro and the sparing, resonant pulse of Grisman’s upright bass.

“Thank you for everything you’ve given us over the years Bobby – thank you for showing us the path and making our world a richer place,” the band wrote. “This one hurts, but we are grateful to be able to throw ourselves into the music – it’s definitely what Bobby would have done, and playing and singing seems like the only way for us to grieve right now – words are hard to find.”

Grisman will return to the stage on Thursday, Jan. 15, for the first of three trio dates alongside Tim O’Brien and Victor Furtado, leading to SGP’s long-awaited return to Nashville’s famed Ryman Auditorium on Jan. 23. Find tickets and more information at samgrismanproject.net, and watch a video from Sunday’s tribute to Weir below.