Jeff Mattson joins Dark Star full-time

The popular Grateful Dead tribute band, Dark Star Orchestra, announced today that Jeff Mattson will be performing the Jerry Garcia role in the band full-time. Mattson had replaced John Kadlecik in the role after the former guitarist left the band to join Furthur in 2009.

The band's announcement reads as follows:

“After months of touring and playing with Jeff, we have decided to offer him the full time gig, which he has gratefully accepted. Jeff has blown us away with his energy, licks, and presence on stage. He is a great guy, an inspiring musician and so much fun to perform with, we cannot wait to get back out there and mix it up with him once again. We are having more fun than ever and are looking forward to seeing you all at the upcoming shows."

Jeff Mattson (guitar, vocals) is a founding member of the legendary jam band, The Zen Tricksters. A master guitarist playing styles that range from rock & roll to blues, bluegrass to country, jazz to folk, Mattson has been performing for more than 30 years. Aside from his work with Dark Star and The Zen Tricksters, Mattson has also been a member of the Donna Jean Godchaux Band and Phil Lesh and Friends. Mattson will now lend high-energy guitar playing with heart-wrenching vocals to become what is certain to be a crucial presence in Dark Star Orchestra for the foreseeable future.

Congratulations Jeff! No offense to John who is great, but I always thought Jeff would be more suitable for the Jerry role. Can't wait to see the new Dark Star in person at Vibes!