Bob Dylan’s Long Hot Summer Tour ’26 has taken an unexpected turn with acclaimed jazz guitarist Julian Lage stepping in for regular band member Doug Lancio for two consecutive California performances. According to JamBase, Lage played the full setlist at both the Santa Barbara Bowl on June 18 and Yaamava’ Theater in Highland on June 19, marking a significant and unusual lineup change for Dylan’s touring ensemble.
The circumstances surrounding Lancio’s absence remain unclear, as Dylan’s spokesperson told the Los Angeles Times they had “no word on whether Lage was a permanent addition to the band.” Lancio has been a fixture in Dylan’s band since November 2021, replacing previous guitarist Charlie Sexton. The rest of the current lineup includes Tony Garnier on bass, Bob Britt on acoustic guitar, and Anton Fig on drums.
Tour Details and Setlist Variations
Despite the guitarist substitution, Dylan maintained his typical 16-song performance structure at both shows. The setlists remained largely consistent with previous tour stops, featuring classics like “All Along the Watchtower,” “When I Paint My Masterpiece,” and “Soon After Midnight.” Minor variations appeared in the closing numbers—Santa Barbara ended with “I Shall Be Released” while Highland featured “Every Grain of Sand” and “Goodbye Jimmy Reed” instead of “Nervous Breakdown.”
Julian Lage, who released his critically acclaimed album “Scenes From Above” in January, is at the peak of his career and has recently made guest appearances with Goose and Tedeschi Trucks Band. His participation in Dylan’s band for two full shows—rather than a brief guest spot—suggests either a temporary fill-in or potentially a more permanent role, though official confirmation is pending.
Southern California Tour Continuation
The tour’s Southern California connection remains strong with three more shows scheduled in the region. Bob Dylan performs at Acrisure Arena in Thousand Palms on June 20, followed by a performance at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park in San Diego on June 21. These shows present opportunities for Southern California fans to witness whether Lage continues with the band or if Lancio returns to his regular position.
Dylan’s ongoing tour, which runs through August 1, continues to draw significant attention both for its musical performances and unexpected lineup developments. Southern California audiences have been treated to multiple stops on this tour, reinforcing the region’s status as a key market for legacy artists.
The question of Lage’s continued involvement will likely be answered at Dylan’s upcoming Thousand Palms performance. With no scheduled conflicts for Lage until June 29, the possibility remains open for additional appearances. Dylan’s tour continues to demonstrate his enduring relevance and willingness to evolve his sound with new musical collaborators.
Last updated June 22, 2026.
Sources: Jambase, Grimy Goods, Consequence
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