Dark Star Orchestra formed in 1997 in Chicago, Illinois, as a tribute band dedicated to recreating the live concert experience of the Grateful Dead. The band selects specific setlists from the Grateful Dead's nearly 2,500 performances spanning three decades, adapting their sound to match the era of each chosen show. Current members include Rob Barraco on keyboards and vocals, Rob Eaton on rhythm guitar and vocals, Dino English and Rob Koritz on drums and percussion, Lisa Mackey on vocals, Jeff Mattson on lead guitar and vocals, and Skip Vangelas on bass and vocals. Their musical style centers on rock with extended improvisations characteristic of jam band traditions. They have performed over 3,300 shows in nearly 30 years, recreating sets such as the February 21, 1969, performance at the Dream Bowl in Vallejo, California, and the June 4, 1978, show at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Dark Star Orchestra is known for live shows that faithfully replicate Grateful Dead setlists while incorporating epic jams, dual drumming, and multiple vocalists for audience engagement.