The Benevento/Russo and the New Deals Darren Shearer and Jamie Shields will spend some time together over the holidays. The two drum/keyboard combos will play a series of northeast shows together as The Join, including stops at Bostons Roxy (12/27), Troy, NYs Revolution Hall (12/28), Baltimore, MDs Sonar (12/29) and New Yorks Highline Ballroom (12/31). The Joins New Years Eve performance marks the seventh anniversary of Joe Russos fabled appearance with the New Deal at Wetlands on New Years Eve 2000. U-Melt will perform at the Highline following The Joins spot.

In the meantime, Russo has lined-up a number of extracurricular activities before the Duo heads out on tour. As previously reported, Russos other band, American Babies, will perform at New Hope, PAs John & Peters (9/7), Teaneck, NJs Mexicali Blues (9/27), Philadelphias The Khyber (9/28) and Delawares Dewey Beach Americana Festival (10/19-20). The busy drummer will also open for Disco Biscuits offshoot Conspirator at Denver, COs Cervantes on September 14, fronting a band known as Joe Russo and the Open Air Ensemble that features Motet keyboardist Steve Vidaic and Liza/O.A.E. bassist Aaron Snider. He will then offer a rare Joe Russo and Friends show with his American Babies pal Tom Hamilton and ulu bassist Justin Wallace at Harrisburg, PAs Appalachian Brewing Company on September 20. An official announcement, including New Years Eve ticket information, will be made on Monday.