Chris and Oliver Wood continue to write and perform, presenting what is described as ‘a blues-based, Americana, songwriter duet.’ The pair performed a pair of New York area shows last month and are stepping it up a bit in June. They will be at Valentine’s in Albany followed by appearances through the weekend in Cambridge (Lizard Lounge), Portland (Space Gallery), Great Barrington (Club Helsinki) and NYC (Big Apple BBQ). Beyond that they will pick things up on June 21 and 22 with shows at New Yorks Bowery Ballroom and Tin Angel in Philadelphia, PA.

Jeff Mattson Joins Rob Barraco, Dark Star Orchestra

Last night at Mexicali Blues, guitarist Jeff Mattson joined former Zen Trickster bandmate Rob Barraco and the Dark Orchestra for most of their second set. Barraco is touring with DSO following the passing of keyboardist Scott Larned. Last night the group interpreted the Deads 2/21/72 show and at the start of the second set, DSO guitarist John Kadlecik introduced Mattson and let him take the guitar leads for the first half dozen songs, telling the audience that ‘they were in very good hands.’ The Dark Star Orchestra returns to the club tonight while the Tricksters are off until they begin a Midwest tour on June 17.