Summer is finally upon us, and with the change of seasons comes a myriad of events – college commencements, the return of green foliage to Toledo, and of course, summer music festivals. But with so many options to choose from, picking which festival you attend can sometimes be more stressful then it should be. While some flock to larger, more mainstream festivals that cater to fans of all genres, others prefer smaller, intimate gatherings that are focused as much on the temporary community of the festival as they are the music. Enter Dark Star Jubilee 2013.
The 2nd annual Dark Star Jubilee, which will take place at Legend Valley in Thornville, Ohio from May 24th through 26th, combines the best of both worlds. Featuring the premier Grateful Dead tribute band in the country, Dark Star Orchestra, alongside a host of world renowned musical acts, the Jubilee offers phenomenal music at an affordable price as well as a smaller atmosphere that makes the downtime at your campsite as memorable as your time in front of the stages.
The Jubilee offers a family friendly, affordable festival experience that helps take away the headache of preparing for a weekend of camping in the sun. With tickets prices at only $140 at the gate for all three days, Dark Star Jubilee is one of the best values in summer festivals. For that price, you get to see 25 bands including former members of the Grateful Dead, jamgrass staples Yonder Mountain String Band, former members of Little Feat and new, up and coming bands such as Ohio favorites The Werks and Greensky Bluegrass. In addition, kids under age 3 can get in for free and kids ages 3 – 12 only pay $25, making this an affordable Memorial Day weekend for the whole family. And forget overpaying for food and drinks while at the concerts – at the Jubilee, attendees are allowed to bring their own coolers stocked with beverages (alcoholic or not) and food directly to the front of the stages.
Here are the top 5 acts that you don’t want to miss
1.) Dark Star Orchestra – The penultimate Grateful Dead tribute band, Dark Star Orchestra is known for recreating exact set lists of classic Grateful Dead shows and their tireless dedication to channeling not only the music of the Dead but also the energy and spirit of their live concerts. Expect 4 hour long marathon shows from these road veterans.
Dark Orchestra plays Alligator -> Going Down the Road Feeling Bad at All Good 2012
2.) Mickey Hart Band – This former drummer for the Grateful Dead is known for his relentless rhythmic abilities and experimentation with world music. Expect long stretches of psychedelic improvisation and possibly some collaboration with percussionists from other bands.
The Mickey Hart Band performs Fire on the Mountain at Rothbury 2008
3.) Yonder Mountain String Band – Veterans of the summer music festival circuit, Yonder Mountain String Band plays raucous bluegrass music that ignites crowds into full hoe downs. Don’t miss their virtuoso picking and signature twang.
Yonder Mountain String Band covering the Talking Head’s ‘Girlfriend is Better’ at the Northwest String Summit 2011
4.) The New Orleans Suspects – Featuring Paul Barrere and Fred Tackett of Little Feat, this band promises to bring southern tinged creole funk to the Jubilee. Their set will most likely be a mix of Little Feat classics as well as traditional New Orleans covers that will be a party in the sun.
The New Orleans Suspects perform their original song All By Myself live in the studio
5.) The Werks – Dayton, Ohio natives The Werks are no strangers to big summer festivals. Last year at All Good they played in-between Bob Weir and Phil Lesh, showcasing their ascension from bar band to jamtronica favorites. Featuring epic guitar solos alongside danceable beats, The Werks futuristic sound is not to be missed.
The Werks perform their original song Duck Farm at the Newport Music Hall in 2011
For more information on the Dark Star Jubilee including a full lineup of musical artists, directions and frequently asked questions, visit www.darkstarjubilee.com .
