Dark Star Orchestra has performed more than 3,100 shows in the last 25-plus years it’s been touring, but it always tries to show a different side of the Grateful Dead vibe in every new — or return — venue it plays. The seven-piece band builds its shows around Dead songs and tours. It might perform a show based on a set list from one of the Dead’s shows or create a unique set list based on the legendary band’s catalog.
“Generally, we plan the scripted sets before the tour starts. About 40% of the time, we create our own set lists, and that occurs day of show. We do this so we don’t repeat songs often and keep it fresh for us and the fan base,” said rhythm guitarist and vocalist Rob Eaton, who wouldn’t reveal what the band will choose Wednesday night at the Gerald R.
Ford Amphitheater, but simply added, “As a Vail resident for the last 23 years, I’m very excited to finally play the Ford Amphitheater. The weather will be beautiful, and I get to see all my friends in one place smiling.” The current lineup of Dark Star Orchestra is more than 12 years old: Eaton is one of the longtime members, having joined nearly 25 years ago in December 1999, along with vocalist Lisa Mackey and drummers Dino English and Rob Koritz.
“Each time we’ve had a personnel change, it’s made the band stronger,” Eaton said. “Our strength is our passion for the music and our love for the community. Dark Star musicians like guitarist and vocalist Jeff Mattson and keyboardist .
