Mr. Blotto was born in Chicago as an off-night vehicle for musicians who loved each others playing but were in different bands at the time. The only rule was that they would only play what they loved. That philosophy continues today and has led Mr. Blotto into unique musical situations.

Mr. Blotto takes the Jam band asthetic into areas unfamiliar to the standard Jam Scene. They have been known to cover entire albums by Led Zeppelin and the Who as well as perform entire shows of Country and Reggae. Artists as diverse as the Grateful Dead, the Flaming Lips, Willie Nelson and The Velvet Underground have seen their material interpreted by Mr. Blotto in the 2000+ shows the band has performed in the last 15 years, yet covers only pepper the bands hefty catalog of original material stemming from five studio albums and other unreleased crowd favorites.

The County Line is a jam band with a deep appreciation for the Grateful Dead. The County Line consistently challenges themselves with jam improvisation, and a dedication to making every show energetic and unique.

Poul Freitag is on rhythm guitar and lead vocals. Poul has been covering The Grateful Dead for over 25 years in various bands.

Jakob Freitag is on lead guitar and backup vocals. Jakob was trained at School of Rock Arlington Heights, where he played in the house band for 3 years.

Phil Chester is on Bass. Phil graduated from DePaul with a degree in Jazz Studies. He is a music director at School of Rock Schaumburg, a session musician and participates in multiple projects.

Jim Farmer is on drums. Jim was a founding member of two legendary Grateful Dead cover bands in the Chicago area – Terrapin Flyer and Caution. He is also a current member of Northwest Corner.

Steve Anton is on Keys and organ. Steve has been playing in Grateful Dead bands for over 25 years.