When he’s not in a jam, John Kadlecik could be described as the ultimate Deadhead.
He was an original member and co-founder of the Dark Star Orchestra, which restages Grateful Dead concerts in their entirety, adding a little improvisational jam on the side. He plays most string instruments but is best known for “being a guitar-sling sideman for Grateful Dead members Phil Lesh and Bob Weir in the band Further” from 2009 to 2014.
What’s on the mind of this music/anthropology/technology-loving man? He cites a quote that “sums” it up:
“The mystery of sound is mysticism; the harmony of life is religion. The knowledge of vibrations is metaphysics, the analysis of atoms is science, and their harmonious grouping is art. The rhythm of form is poetry, and the rhythm of sound is music. This shows that music is the art of arts and the science of all sciences; and it contains the fountain of all knowledge within itself.”
— Hazrat Inayat Khan
That’s pretty Deadheady.
John Kadlecik, 47, is touring with his own band these days and will bring his music, magic and mysticism to the Crown Room at Crystal Bay Casino on Thursday night. Tickets remain for the 9 p.m. show for $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Fans must be 21 or older.
Born in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Kadlecik studied classical violin as a child and then taught himself guitar while in high school, first playing jazz and folk music in garage bands. In 1996, He briefly played in a Grateful Dead tribute group dubbed Uncle John’s Band before forming his own act, Wingnut. In 1997, he co-founded Dark Star Orchestra and was known for his ability to recreate Jerry Garcia’s singing and playing styles.
On Thursday night, fans can expect to hear some folk/country rock, bluegrass, jazz and a whole lotta jam.
-Randy Hashagen
