Tales from the Green Room hit the road with its debut visit to the iconic Capitol Theater in Port Chester, New York, sitting down backstage with Dark Star Orchestra lead guitarist, Jeff Mattson! Recorded in between DSO’s first two shows since the passing of Phil Lesh, Jeff reflects on his interactions with Phil and how the band prepared for these memorable performances at one of his favorite venues. The episode continues with Jeff expressing gratitude and sharing memories about being the first person to publicly play Jerry Garcia’s famed Alligator Fender Strat, courtesy of Andy Logan and the Grateful Guitars Foundation. Jeff also muses about the intimacy of playing at Phil’s Terrapin Crossroads, his jazz and improvisation influences, the difference between West Coast and East Coast audiences and maintaining musical authenticity while honoring the legacy of The Grateful Dead.
It’s no secret that Phil Lesh made an enduring impact on the music community. Mattson reminisces about his long-standing connection with Lesh, detailing the significant influence Lesh had on his musical journey. As the Capitol Theatre stands as a landmark in their shared history, Mattson reflects on the emotional resonance of performing in such a storied venue with Dark Star Orchestra, especially following Lesh’s passing.
Unveiling the magic of iconic instruments, Jeff Mattson recounts the surreal experience of playing Jerry Garcia’s legendary “Alligator” guitar. As the first person to perform with it publicly since Garcia, Mattson describes the chills and honor of channeling the spirit of a musical hero. This episode uncovers Mattson’s deep connection with other cherished guitars, courtesy of the Grateful Guitars Foundation, illustrating the reverence and continuity of musical heritage.
Our conversation also delves into the vibrant culture of Grateful Dead fans across the United States. From the more reserved West Coast aficionados to the passionate East Coast audiences, Mattson shares his observations on these subtle yet significant differences as he tours with DSO. He credits these diverse fan bases with keeping the spirit of the Grateful Dead alive, noting the unique energy each brings to the music scene.
Tune into the full episode for a better glimpse into Jeff Mattson’s rich history of musical experiences. As Mattson navigates through tales of collaboration, personal growth, and the enduring impact of the Grateful Dead, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the music that continues to resonate across generations.
#TalesFromTheGreenRoom #JeffMattson #Blog