Artists

Performing to critical acclaim for over 20 years and over 3000 shows, Dark Star Orchestra continues the Grateful Dead live concert experience. Their shows are built off the Dead's extensive catalog and the talent of these seven fine musicians. On any given night, the band will perform a show based on a set list from the Grateful Dead's 30 years of extensive touring or use their catalog to program a unique set list for the show. This allows fans both young and old to share in the experience. By recreating set lists from the past, and by developing their own sets of Dead songs, Dark Star Orchestra offers a continually evolving artistic outlet within this musical canon. Honoring both the band and the fans, Dark Star Orchestra's members seek out the unique style and sound of each era while simultaneously offering their own informed improvisations.

Dark Star Orchestra offers much more than the sound of the Grateful Dead, they truly encapsulate the energy and the experience. It's about a sense of familiarity. It's about a feeling that grabs listeners and takes over. It's about that contagious energy...in short, it's about the complete experience and consistent quality show that the fan receives when attending a Dark Star Orchestra show.

Dark Star Orchestra has performed throughout the entire United States, including a sold out debut at Colorado’s Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, plus shows in Europe and the Caribbean with the band touching down in seven different countries. DSO continues to grow its fan base by playing at larger venues for two and even three-night stands, as well as performing at major music festivals including Bonnaroo, Milwaukee's SummerFest, The Peach Music Festival, Jam Cruise, Wanee Festival, SweetWater 420 Festival, Mountain Jam, and many more.

In addition to appearing at some of the nation's top festival, Dark Star Orchestra hosts its own annual music festival and campaign gathering, titled the "Dark Star Jubilee", currently in its eighth year where DSO headline all three nights and are joined by a mix of established and up and coming national touring acts. Beyond the shores of the United States, DSO has taken its internationally-acclaimed Grateful Dead tribute to the beaches of Jamaica in the dead of winter for the past six years, with their event appropriately titled 'Jam in the Sand'. Featuring an ocean-side stage, DSO sets up camp to perform shows for four nights along the tropical sands of an all-inclusive resort, selling out the event each year for hundreds of lucky attendees.

Fans and critics haven't been the only people caught up in the spirit of a Dark Star show. The band has featured guest performances from six original Grateful Dead members Phil Lesh, Bob Weir, Bill Kreutzmann, Donna Jean Godchaux-MacKay, Vince Welnick, Tom Constanten and even toured with longtime Dead soundman, Dan Healy. Other notable guests have included Mike Gordon and Jon Fishman of Phish, Keller Williams, Warren Haynes, Steve Kimock, Peter Rowan, Ramblin' Jack Elliot and many more.

"For us it's a chance to recreate some of the magic that was created for us over the years," keyboardist and vocalist Rob Barraco explains. "We offer a sort of a historical perspective at what it might have been like to go to a show in 1985, 1978 or whenever. Even for Deadheads

who can say they've been to a hundred shows in the 90s, we offer something they never got to see live."

Melvin Seals has been a powerful presence in the music industry for over 30 years with a long-established reputation as a performer, recording artist and producer. Melvin is most revered for his powerful, high-spirited, Hammond B-3 organ, and keyboards in the Jerry Garcia Band. Melvin spun his B-3 magic with the Jerry Garcia Band for 18 years and in doing so helped pioneer and define what has now become "Jam Band Music". From blues to funk to rock to jazz, Melvin Seals serves up a tasty mix with a little R&B and gospel thrown in to spice things up. Melvin and JGB bring an intuitive, expressive style, soul, spontaneity and remarkable chops to the table. John Kadlecik on lead guitar and vocal duties, John-Paul McLean's savory bass, Jeremy Hoenig on the drums and, of course, a heapin' helpin' of the wizard's magic on Hammond B-3 Organ and keyboards. Their chemistry is the focus from which they create a spontaneous and high art where the sky is the limit musically. They offer an exciting, often psychedelic musical journey that changes nightly and keeps the audience dancing and smiling (and some staring in amazement) for hours. Adding his rock-gospel-soul-rhythm and blues touch with his funky style of playing, no wonder Jerry nicknamed him "Master of the Universe". Melvin continues to treat music lovers to his unique brand of melodic flavor with JGB. Come see and hear for yourself! MELVIN SEALS & JGB: Melvin Seals -Hammond B3 Organ, Keyboards & Vocals John Kadlecik -Electric Guitar & Lead VocalsJohn-Paul McLean –Bass & VocalsJeremy Hoenig -Drums

Trumpeter and vocalist, Jennifer Hartswick is one of the most exciting performers in music today. She exudes confidence and joy and brings her own refreshing spirit to the stage every time she performs. Jennifer’s music is honest, soulful and comes with a maturity far beyond her years.

Hartswick is an original member of the Trey Anastasio Band and has recorded/shared the stage with Herbie Hancock, Phish, Christian McBride, Tom Petty, Aaron Neville, Carlos Santana, The Rolling Stones, Big Gigantic, Dave Matthews and countless others.

Jennifer’s live performances are renowned as spontaneous, joyful and contagious. Her natural charisma and sincerity shines through, and each performance is a celebration of musical collaboration. And whether she is wailing on the trumpet or singing an intimate vocal solo, her performance is all part of a single seamless instrument, one that is played not only with astounding technical proficiency, but also with sensitivity, conviction and heart.

The Anders Osborne and Jackie Greene Band combines the raw, soulful blues-rock of Anders Osborne with the eclectic, rootsy Americana of Jackie Greene. Together, they create a dynamic and electrifying musical experience that captivates audiences with every performance.

Anders Osborne: Hailing from Sweden and making his mark in New Orleans, Anders Osborne is a celebrated guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for his deeply emotional lyrics and fiery guitar work. His music blends blues, rock, and soul, earning him a reputation as one of the most passionate and compelling live performers on the scene today. Osborne’s ability to channel personal struggles and triumphs into his music resonates deeply with fans, creating a powerful connection that transcends the stage.

Jackie Greene: Jackie Greene, a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter from California, brings a diverse range of influences to the band. Known for his work with The Black Crowes and as a solo artist, Greene effortlessly traverses genres, from rock and blues to folk and Americana. His distinctive voice, combined with his prowess on guitar, piano, and harmonica, adds a rich, layered texture to the band's sound. Greene’s lyrical storytelling and melodic sensibility have earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following.

The Collaboration: When Anders Osborne and Jackie Greene join forces, their musical synergy is palpable. Their collaborative performances feature a blend of original songs and inspired covers, showcasing their individual talents while creating something uniquely their own. Fans can expect a dynamic setlist that spans heartfelt ballads, high-energy rockers, and soulful blues numbers, all delivered with the passion and authenticity that both artists are known for.

Together, the Anders Osborne and Jackie Greene Band deliver an unforgettable live experience, filled with masterful musicianship, emotional depth, and an undeniable chemistry that leaves audiences wanting more. Whether on stage or in the studio, this collaboration is a testament to the power of musical partnership and the timeless appeal of heartfelt, genre-defying music.