The Zen Tricksters have confirmed a rare reunion show. The long-running jamband, whose original lineup first came together as a Grateful Dead cover band called The Volunteers in 1979 and played New York’s famed Wetlands more than almost any other act, will regroup for a gig at Bay Shore, NY’s Boulton Center for the Performing Arts on March 7. For this night, the combo’s lineup will feature Jeff Mattson (lead guitar/vocals), Klyph Black (bass/vocals), Tom Circosta (rhythm guitar/vocals), Dave Diamond (drums) and Jenna Markard (vocals). Special guest Scott Chasolen will fill in on keyboards.
The ensemble was active on the road for decades and released several albums of original material, working with Donna Jean Godchaux as Donna Jean & the Tricksters along the way. Since Mattson joined Dark Star Orchestra in 2009, The Zen Tricksters have only performed on occasion between the members’ various other commitments. DSO keyboardist Rob Barraco is also a former member of The Zen Tricksters; he and Mattson were drafted for some early Phil Lesh & Friends shows and Barraco went on to become a member of the Phil Lesh Quintet.
Dark Star Orchestra will return to the road for a gig at Providence, RI’s Providence Performing Arts Center on November 12.
