Go there and experience another Jam in the Sand in Montego Bay, Jamaica, that was the program in my calendar from January 14, to January 18, 2025. As a photographer and a fan of live music, it was my fourth visit to the island. As always, my trip this year to Jamaica was really fun. It provided me with the best relaxation via a combination of music, food, and several other activities around the swimming pool.
If you love the Grateful Dead, the Dark Star Orchestra's Jam held in Runaway Bay Jamaica is the best place for you. Most of the same people go every year and some have been there for all 10 years. The concerts are held close to the beach and the sound and lights are fantastic. This is a small intimate venue and waiters come by to give you drink orders. Everywhere people are dancing, grooving and singing to the music.
Dark Star Orchestra with a group of talented musicians: Rob Eaton, Vangelas Rob, Jeff Mattson, Rob Barraco, Lisa Mackey, and Dino English was phenomenal. The band played a list of songs and most of them from the catalog of The Grateful Dead: Hell in a Bucket, Ramble on Rose, Box of Rain, Black Throated Wind, Row Jimmy, Cumberland Blues, Who was John?
Melvin Seals & JGB were present once again in Jamaica with the ultimate mission to continue the musical legacy of the Jerry Gracia Band. Melvin Seals, John Kadlecik, John-Paul McLean, Jeremy Hoening were also phenomenal on stage. The American rock band led by Melvin Seals, who plays electric organ, from blues to funk, to rock to jazz, serves up a tasty mix with a little R&B and gospel thrown in to spice things up.
The third group that performed during the festivities was Jackie Greene and . Anders Osborne. Greene who is a frequent member of Phil Lesh & Friends, and sits in with several other artists including Tedeschi Trucks Band, Govt Mule, Mississippi All Stars, Amy Helm, Steve Earle, and Bob Weir, had shown in Jamaica his musical skills as a road warrior and a gifted artist.
Live music performance at Jewel Paradise Cove (main concert venue) started from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and continued at night from 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Performances by:
- Dark Star Orchestra (4 shows)
- Melvin Seals & JGB with special guest Jennifer Hartswick (2 shows)
- Anders Osborne & Jackie Greene Band (2 shows)
The Experience
I had an enjoyable vacation in Jamaica. Spending my days on the beach enjoying everything the all-inclusive resort has to offer including stunning ocean views, landscaped gardens and pools scattered throughout the property, was a luxurious and relaxing time. As a Caribbean lover, I am already dreaming about my next trip in January 2026 to the island.
Dark Star Orchestra
Melvin Seals & JGB
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