The China Cats stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Grateful Dead. For over a decade, since 2012, this Bay Area-based tribute band has consistently delivered captivating performances, earning them a reputation as one of the premier Grateful Dead tributes in Northern California. Their longevity with the same core members is a key ingredient to their success, allowing them to develop an almost telepathic musical connection on stage.
What sets the China Cats apart is their ability to embody the true spirit of the Grateful Dead. They are renowned for their “tight but loose” approach – a blend of musical precision and improvisational freedom that defined the Dead’s iconic sound. Their extensive repertoire, drawing from hundreds of Grateful Dead songs, means every performance is a unique journey. They can seamlessly transition between songs, sounding both well-rehearsed and spontaneous, capturing the adventurous essence that Grateful Dead devotees cherish.
The China Cats have graced stages across North America, from intimate venues like Terrapin Crossroads and Sweetwater in Marin County to larger stages such as Crystal Bay Casino in Tahoe and the Skull & Roses Festival in Ventura. Their regular presence at venues like Club Fox in Redwood City, Ashkenaz in Berkeley, and the Siren in Morro Bay, alongside festival appearances like the Redwood Mountain Fair in Felton, solidifies their position in the live music scene.
The band is composed of seasoned musicians, each bringing their own expertise to the collective sound. Lead guitarist Matt Hartle is a prominent figure in the Bay Area music scene, known for his Grateful Sunday series at Felton Music Hall. He also collaborates with Joe Craven in the acoustic project Painted Mandolin. Rhythm guitarist Scott Cooper has built a strong following through his performances and original music; his solo work has achieved national recognition on jam band and Americana radio charts. Keyboardist Steve Sofranko, a frequent collaborator with Stu Allen, bassist Roger Sideman, and drummer Michael Owens complete the lineup, forming the core of the beloved China Cats. Their collective experience and passion are evident in every performance.
The China Cats’ reputation is further bolstered by collaborations with notable figures from the Grateful Dead family, including former vocalist Donna Jean Godchaux and JGB organist Melvin Seals. This recognition from within the Grateful Dead community speaks volumes about their authenticity and musical prowess.
Critics and fans alike have lauded the China Cats. Good Times, Santa Cruz, hailed them as “one of the premier tribute bands in Northern California,” praising their ability to infuse “the classic sensibilities of the Dead’s catalog with their own flair and energy.” The Modesto Bee recognized them as “The Bay Area’s leading Grateful Dead tribute band,” emphasizing their focus on recreating “the spirit of the Dead with creative jam sessions” rather than mere imitation. They capture the genuine personality of the Dead while paying homage to their musical legacy.
In conclusion, the China Cats are more than just a tribute band; they are a vibrant force keeping the Grateful Dead’s music and spirit alive. Their consistent performances, musical talent, and deep understanding of the Dead’s ethos make them a must-see for any Grateful Dead enthusiast and a cornerstone of the Bay Area music scene.
