Friends of the Devil: West Texas Cowboys, Brown-Eyed Women, and Other Sunshine Daydreamers from the Songs of the Grateful Dead

A rip-roaring, kaleidoscopic deep dive into the mythos and songs of The Grateful Dead, with over one hundred vibrant, original paintings

Friends of the Devil invites you to plunge headfirst into the legendary universe of The Grateful Dead, where music and myth intertwine and where there's nothing left to do but smile, smile, smile. This captivating exploration brings to life the characters and stories that have enchanted Deadheads for generations.

Experience the poignant moments of Robert Hunter singing "Terrapin Station" amidst the winds of change at Ground Zero, a scene so intense it feels like the spirits themselves are trying to commune with him. Get on the train of "Bird Song," a melancholic beauty of a tribute to Janis Joplin that mourns her loss while celebrating her spirit. Come hear the journey of the "Uncle John's Band," playing to the tide, where every performance is a new adventure, filled with improvisation and unexpected turns.

Joan LeMay's original paintings breathe fresh, new life into the ramshackle, blacklight-ready aesthetic of The Grateful Dead, offering a cohesive and vibrant visual experience that complements the band's storied legacy. LeMay's artwork captures the essence of each song, character, and scene, and enlivens them: From the enigmatic and loquacious wino August West of "Wharf Rat" to the haunting tale of a card game gone bad in the mythical timbers of Fennario in "Dire Wolf," each song becomes a portal to a world rich with emotion and an utterly surprising history.

In Quantum Criminals, Pappademas and Lemay brought the depths of Steely Dan’s musical world to life, and here, they do the same for The Grateful Dead, with their characteristic insight and creativity. A rich, detailed, and rollicking journey, this book is a gift for longtime fans, and a delightful, informative, and often moving treat for anyone new to the band's  wild magic. Join us in revisiting the past, where every page is a step back in time, a ripple in still water, and every story shines like a glimmering stone on the golden road.