Painted Mandolin is a plugged-in acoustic quartet of original compositions, reupholstered covers, and reimagined medleys. The concept of PM (whose name references the Garica/Hunter composition “Ruben and Cherise”), was born out of mutual love and direct affiliation to the musical leanings of Jerry Garcia. Featuring Joe Craven, who was percussionist and fiddler for the Grisman/Garcia Project. . . plus Matt Hartle, Larry Graff, and Dan Robbins.
Joe Craven is a creative educator, record producer, actor/storyteller, emcee, weekend poet, and fashion insultant. Joe has played and recorded with many notable musicians, including violinist Stephane Grappelli, Jerry Garcia, David Lindley, as well as 17 years with mandolinist David Grisman and 7 years with Banjo/fusionist Allison Brown. As an award winning recipient of awards such as 2009 Folk Alliance Far-West Performer of the Year, and the Swannanoa Gathering’s Master Music Maker Award, Joe is at home and loves every minute of his artful living, from busking at Cannery Row to playing at Carnegie Hall.
Larry Graff is originally from Detroit, Michigan. He moved to California in 1981, and began his career as a professional musician. In 1985 he co-founded the world famous, award winning Banana Slug String Band. For 40 years the Slugs have toured North America, bringing Eco-Science to kids and families. His maturity as a band leader, songwriter and musician, contributes to Painted Mandolin’s creative edge. A Deadhead for 48 years, Larry always brings his experience, knowledge, passion, energy and love to the stage.
Matt Hartle was born in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, and earned a degree in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas. Making his home in Santa Cruz, Ca. he is the lead guitarist of Painted Mandolin, the China Cats, and various other Dead projects. Matt teaches music privately and enjoys a weekly residency that he created and curates, called “Grateful Sundays”. His signature style, a vast knowledge of the Grateful Dead canon and beyond, brings a fearless and soulful address to the sound of PM.
Dan Robbins lives for the bass. A full-time professional bassist, educator, and recording artist since 1997, he brings a lifetime of knowledge and skill to both upright and electric bass of almost every variety. He teaches bass at both SJSU and Santa Clara University. A passionate and skilled performer, he maintains a busy schedule as the bassist for the Gary Meek band, and many other projects. Joe Craven says, "I've played with many bassists over my 40 year music career, and without question, Dan Robbins is one of THE most technically advanced and musical bassists I’ve ever know." Dan is the real deal; he brings a smoking hot virtuosity to PM that will blow your mind.
Instrumentals, high energy grooves, and vocals shared by all, the quartet features a backwoods toolbox of acoustic guitars, banjotar, mandolin, fiddle, hand and mouth percussion, and upright and electric bass that create a sound of memories, traditions, and innovations all in a fresh jam that Jerry would like. . . We think you will too.
