The Dead is Alive in Greenbelt

The Dead is no where near that, judging by the current that flowed through the in Greenbelt, Md., Wednesday night, as John Kadlecik played old favorites solo acoustic.

Kadlecik came into the limelight in 1997 when he became lead guitarist for the Grateful Dead tribute band, Dark Star Orchestra. He’s also gained recognition performing in Furthur with original Dead members Bob Weir and Phil Lesh.

And in Greenbelt, where he is a recurring visitor, Kadlecik has gained acclaim for magical moments that spin outside of time.

A huge gathering, by Greenbelt standards, descended on the cafe to relive the glory days of Garcia. Spilling down the hallway and out through the doors, tie-dyed, tee-shirted enthusiasts danced and sang along with Kadlecik, releasing a palpable wave of community.

The performance was slated to go from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., but it wasn’t until 10 p.m., that Kadleicik said his goodbye. Even then, the deadheads and local Utopians wouldn’t hear of it. Kadlecik didn’t let them down. Pulling vintage Jerry out of his pocket, he picked up his guitar one last time and sang, “Ripple,” allowing the magic to linger one brief shining moment longer.