China Cats

This Bay Area tribute band performs the songs of the Grateful Dead with spirited jams that carry their own genuine personality while paying homage to their musical forefathers. The band is comprised of veterans of the Bay Area jam band scene who have studied the Dead's musical nuances in great detail without losing any of their own individuality. Lead guitarist Matt Hartle has worked with Jerry Garcia Band organist Melvin Seals as well as Cast of Clowns, Front Street and Shady Groove.

Rhythm guitarist Scott Cooper has worked with members of Galactic, Great American Taxi, David Nelson Band and many others. Bassist Rockin' Roger Sideman also plays with David Gans, Stu Allen and others including bluegrass legend Frank Wakefield. The band is rounded out by veteran keyboardist Steve Sofranko (Shady Groove, Burnt Toast, Workingman's Ed) and drummer Michael Owens (surfer).