Dark Star Orchestra

Dark Star Orchestra (DSO) stands as the premier Grateful Dead tribute band, faithfully recreating the legendary group’s concert experience since 1997. Unlike typical cover bands, DSO meticulously reproduces entire historic Grateful Dead shows, capturing the improvisational spirit and musical nuances that defined the original band’s performances.

Led by guitarist Jeff Mattson and featuring accomplished musicians Rob Barraco, Skip Vangelas, Rob Eaton, Dino English, Rob Koritz, and Lisa Mackey, DSO has performed over 3,100 shows worldwide. Their dedication to authenticity extends to using period-specific equipment and adapting their stage setup to match the era of each performance.

What sets DSO apart is their deep understanding of the Grateful Dead’s musical language. While they recreate historic setlists with remarkable precision, they also perform “elective” shows featuring their own song selections in the true Grateful Dead tradition.

Beyond mere tribute, DSO has become custodians of the Grateful Dead legacy, introducing new generations to this iconic musical tradition. Their performances create immersive experiences that transport audiences back to specific moments in Grateful Dead history while maintaining the spontaneous, improvisational spirit that made the original band legendary. For both dedicated Deadheads and newcomers alike, Dark Star Orchestra offers an authentic portal into the enduring magic of the Grateful Dead experience.