Grateful Dead to Release Dave's Picks Vol. 61
The archival series returns with a 1974 University of California, Santa Barbara concert performance.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Folk
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The Grateful Dead will release Dave's Picks Vol. 61 on January 29, 2027, featuring a historic performance from May 25, 1974, at Campus Stadium. This release marks the latest installment in the band's long-running archival project.
Why it matters
The Santa Barbara concert was originally considered for the 2018 Pacific Northwest '73-'74 box set before being shelved during the curation process. This release allows fans to access a recording that was previously passed over due to shifts in the collection's geographic focus.
Each volume of the archival series is limited to 25,000 copies and includes at least 13 CDs per annual subscription. Subscribers can choose between the $99.98 early-bird rate or the $119.92 regular subscription price.
The players
The Grateful Dead
This iconic American rock band formed in 1965 and became known for its unique and eclectic songwriting style, often incorporating elements of folk, bluegrass, and jazz.
The details
The upcoming volume highlights a setlist featuring 'U.S. Blues', 'Scarlet Begonias', and 'Truckin''. The recording captures the band's performance at the University of California, Santa Barbara, which serves as a notable inclusion for collectors of 1974 tour material.
Timeline
May 25, 1974: The original concert occurred at Campus Stadium.
2018: The Pacific Northwest '73-'74 box set was released.
January 29, 2027: Dave's Picks Vol. 61 is scheduled to ship.
April 30, 2027: Dave's Picks Vol. 62 is scheduled to ship.
July 30, 2027: Dave's Picks Vol. 63 is scheduled to ship.
Industry Dynamics
The archival series follows the curation strategy established by the 2018 Pacific Northwest '73-'74 box set. This release continues that methodology by finally issuing a show that was originally excluded during that project's production.
Fans can secure the release by participating in the 2027 subscription program which includes four limited-edition volumes and a bonus disc. The subscription model ensures collectors receive all volumes while managing the limited physical inventory of 25,000 copies per set.
The takeaway
Archival releases offer listeners a chance to hear high-quality recordings of historically significant concert dates. Enthusiasts should monitor subscription timelines to ensure they receive limited-edition bonus content throughout the year.
What happens next
Dave's Picks Vol. 62 is scheduled to ship on April 30, 2027, followed by Vol. 63 on July 30, 2027, and Vol. 64 on October 29, 2027.
Further reading
For more information on the band's historical recordings, visit the Folk section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by JamBase.
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