It’s All Harpening: Mikaela Davis Joins Phil Lesh’s ‘Darkstarathon’

Harpist Mikaela Davis recently visited the Terrapin Clubhouse to jam with Phil Lesh & Friends. Davis is featured in the eighth episode of the Grateful Dead bassist’s Darkstarathon video series, which premiered today and can be viewed below.

Darkstarathon is a never-ending version of the Grateful Dead classic “Dark Star” recorded by Phil Lesh and various musical friends at his Terrapin Clubhouse facility. Phil’s band for Episode 8 includes Davis, keyboardist Holly Bowling, guitarists Stu Allen and Grahame Lesh and drummer Nathan Graham.

The latest Phil Lesh & Friends iteration delivered a 50-minute jam to continue Darkstarathon. An expansive improvisation begins the seamless performance and eventually leads into a verse of “Dark Star.” Nearly 18 minutes would pass from the start of the set until the ensemble rolled out “The Wheel,” the first non-“Dark Star” song played. Mikaela Davis worked plenty of memorable harp runs into the mix throughout.

Nathan Graham eventually laid down a heavy groove the band used as a platform to launch “New Speedway Boogie.” Stu Allen handled lead vocals on the song alluding to the ill-fated Altamont festival. Mikaela Davis then fronted the traditional “Cold Rain & Snow” ahead of a return to “Dark Star” territory. Davis also starred on the “Mountains Of The Moon” that ensued following a bit of trippiness. Phil Lesh & Friends laid the groundwork for the next episode by jamming back towards “Dark Star.”

The episode ends with a conversation between the musicians. Phil Lesh asked Mikaela Davis how she entered the Grateful Dead’s orbit. Davis explained former moe. manager Jon Topper reached out to Bob Weir‘s manager leading to her 2018 guest appearance with Wolf Bros.

Watch Episode 8 of Terrapin Crossroads’ Darkstarathon video series below: