Grateful Dead - In The Dark (LP) - Silver Vinyl

"In the Dark," released in 1987, marks a significant chapter in the Grateful Dead's storied career. This album, their twelfth studio effort, was a commercial breakthrough for the band, reaching number six on the Billboard 200 chart. It was their first studio album in six years, following "Go to Heaven" in 1980, and it brought the band back into the spotlight with a fresh sound that resonated with both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.

The album's standout track, "Touch of Grey," became the Grateful Dead's first and only top ten hit on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number nine. The song's catchy refrain, "I will get by, I will survive," became an anthem of resilience and optimism, resonating with audiences during a time of social and economic uncertainty in the United States. The music video for "Touch of Grey," featuring the band members as skeletons, received heavy rotation on MTV, further boosting the band's visibility and appeal to younger audiences.

"In the Dark" was recorded live on stage at the Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium in San Rafael, California, without an audience. This approach allowed the band to capture the energy and spontaneity of their live performances, which had always been a hallmark of their appeal. The album's production, handled by Jerry Garcia and John Cutler, was polished yet retained the improvisational spirit that the Grateful Dead were known for.

Another notable track is "Hell in a Bucket," a song co-written by Bob Weir, Brent Mydland, and John Barlow. It showcases the band's ability to blend rock and roll with their signature psychedelic sound. The song's driving rhythm and playful lyrics made it a favorite in the band's live repertoire. "Throwing Stones," another track from the album, addresses themes of political and social change, reflecting the band's engagement with the issues of the day.

Critically, "In the Dark" was well-received, with many reviewers praising the album for its accessibility and the quality of its songwriting. It was seen as a return to form for the Grateful Dead, who had struggled with the pressures of the music industry and internal challenges in the years leading up to its release. The album's success helped to revitalize the band's career, leading to sold-out tours and a renewed interest in their extensive back catalog.

The cultural significance of "In the Dark" extends beyond its commercial success. The album introduced the Grateful Dead to a new generation of fans, often referred to as "Touchheads," who were drawn to the band by the success of "Touch of Grey." This influx of new fans helped to sustain the band's popularity through the late 1980s and into the 1990s.

"In the Dark" did not win any major music awards, but its impact on the Grateful Dead's legacy is undeniable. It demonstrated the band's ability to adapt and thrive in a changing musical landscape, while staying true to their roots. The album's success also underscored the enduring appeal of the Grateful Dead's music, which continues to inspire and influence artists across genres.

In summary, "In the Dark" is a pivotal album in the Grateful Dead's discography. It captures a moment of renewal and reinvention for the band, blending their classic sound with a contemporary edge that appealed to a broad audience. The album's standout tracks, particularly "Touch of Grey," remain iconic, and its success helped to cement the Grateful Dead's place in the pantheon of American rock music.