Deadheads, this one’s for you! In this episode of Tribute Band Sessions, drummer Rob Koritz of Dark Star Orchestra shares his journey from classical percussion to becoming part of one of the world’s most respected Grateful Dead tributes. Rob explains DSO’s philosophy of improvisation over imitation, honoring the Dead without costumes, and keeping every show evolving. He talks about balancing touring with family, why being a musician is the “hardest easy job,” and how DSO maintains freshness while preserving the spirit of the Grateful Dead. You’ll hear stories about playing with original Dead members, insights on fan culture, international touring, and what separates DSO from other tributes. It’s an inspiring episode for musicians, Deadheads, and anyone who loves the art of reinterpretation.

🎸 Listen & Follow Tribute Band Sessions:

00:00 – Intro: Rob Koritz of DSO
01:51 – Rob’s Musical Roots
02:15 – Early Bands & DSO Origins
02:57 – Joining DSO
03:22 – DSO’s Serendipitous Path
03:55 – Challenges & Changes
04:17 – The “Hardest Easy Job”
04:40 – Recreating Dead Music
05:10 – Sound & Instrument Accuracy
05:41 – Improvisation at the Core
06:22 – Adapting Drum Sounds
06:38 – Collective Musicianship
06:51 – Behind-the-Scenes Authenticity
07:13 – Dead Music Evolution
07:27 – Growing Within the Tribute
07:44 – Always Students
08:02 – Balancing Identity & Tribute
08:07 – Improvised Structure
08:22 – Keeping Shows Fresh
08:43 – Constant Setlist Changes
09:04 – Recreating Full Dead Shows
09:23 – Stage & Gear Adjustments
09:36 – Preparing a Show
09:55 – Listening & Soundcheck
10:46 – Recording & Originality
11:22 – Learning From Imperfection
11:44 – Growth Through Exploration
11:55 – Benefits of Fewer Shows
12:11 – Touring: Then vs. Now
13:08 – Choosing Less Touring
13:42 – Managing Energy
14:10 – Sleeping on the Road
14:26 – Why It’s “Hard but Easy”
14:55 – Touring Dreams vs. Reality
15:19 – Staying Active
15:42 – Rewards of the Career
16:15 – Family Sacrifices
16:38 – Ultimate Reward: Playing
16:44 – Mike’s Perspective
16:53 – Musicians as Big Kids
17:40 – Playing With Dead Members
18:43 – International Tours
19:15 – Why No Tribute Cruises
19:46 – Originality Through Improv
20:02 – Beyond Performance
20:18 – Dedicated Fanbase
20:50 – Loyal Deadheads
21:26 – Fan Friendships
21:52 – Forgiving Audience
22:25 – Appreciating Risks
22:36 – What Makes DSO Unique
22:50 – Growing Tribute Scene
23:15 – Music First, Not Mimicry
23:35 – Huge Dead Cover Community
24:12 – Keeping Music Alive
24:23 – Tribute vs. Replication
24:42 – Why Not Exact Copies
25:00 – Repertoire Flexibility
25:16 – Soundcheck Rehearsal
25:33 – Trust Among Players
26:00 – Shared Knowledge
26:25 – Changing Tribute Landscape
27:10 – New Tribute Variety
27:37 – Aging Originals & Tributes
28:09 – Costume-Free Approach
28:40 – Shift to Authenticity
29:24 – Elaborate Tribute Productions
30:10 – The Voodoo Players
31:07 – St. Louis Music Scene
31:51 – The “Untribute” Idea
32:16 – DSO as an Anomaly
32:31 – Breaking Stereotypes
32:53 – Beyond Vegas Acts
33:20 – Jam Band Ethos
33:57 – Voodoo Players Jams
34:10 – Memorable Moments
34:39 – Playing With Heroes
35:15 – Los Lobos & Little Feat
36:20 – Airplane & Hot Tuna Legends
36:51 – Personal Musical Connections
37:11 – Major Milestones
37:27 – Japan & Fuji Rock
38:20 – Japanese Music Culture
38:49 – Surprising Popularity
39:17 – Long-Term Motivation
39:53 – Joy of Creativity
40:17 – Living the Dream
40:31 – Sustaining the Band
40:46 – Advice to Musicians
41:13 – Have Fun First
41:39 – Authenticity Through Joy
41:59 – Audience Connection
42:13 – Energy Loop
43:00 – Where to Find DSO
43:33 – Online Presence
43:50 – Cross-Generational Appeal
44:22 – Final Thoughts

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