Photos by Chris Besaw
Review by Kelly Besaw
Dave Matthews Band delivered an unforgettable, rarity-packed performance at the Darien Lake Amphitheater on July 22, 2026. Featuring rare setlist shakeups, deep-cut acoustic/full-band contrasts, and a blazing finale featuring violinist Jake Renick Simpson, the band provided one of the most dynamic shows of their summer tour.
The night immediately defied expectations. Rather than the customary slow-burn opener, the band launched into a triumphant, high-energy rendition of “Stay (Wasting Time).” This marked only the second time in the last 22 years that the song has been used as a show opener.
Following “What Would You Say,” the concert took a sharp left turn into the deeper, moodier corners of the DMB catalog. The early-to-mid set was loaded with moderately rare catalog staples, including: “Typical Situation,” “Grace Is Gone,” “Recently,” and “Monsters.”
The acoustic and mid-tempo stretch grounded the evening in raw emotion. A heartfelt rendition of “Gravedigger” was closely followed by the highly sought-after “Long Black Veil.” Returning to the live rotation after a massive 140-show gap, this beautiful, haunting cover served as the definite highlight of the middle arc, marking its first appearance in over two years.
The latter half of the show shifted into absolute overdrive when guest violinist Jake Renick Simpson took the stage. Simpson’s soaring strings blended perfectly with the rhythm section, sparking a breathtaking closing sequence. The band treated fans to a massive five-song run from Before These Crowded Streets before the encore.
The encore featured a striking one-two punch of deeper tracks with “Papertown,” before leaving the packed Darien Lake amphitheater in absolute awe with the set closer, “The Last Stop.” This was one of the most powerful DMB shows I have seen in years. There are still many opportunities to see the band on this tour, so don’t miss out!
Setlist
Stay (Wasting Time)
What Would You Say
Typical Situation
Grace is Gone
Recently
Monsters
Gravedigger (Dave Matthews song)
Long Black Veil (Danny Dill cover) (First time since 9/3/2023)
Can’t Stop
Everyday
American Baby
Jimi Thing
Satellite
Pantala Naga Pampa
Rapunzel
Tripping Billies
Don’t Drink the Water
Encore
Papertown
The Last Stop
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