Photo courtesy of Andrew Paynter

Identical twin jazz duo, the Mattson 2, have been taking the San Diego jazz scene by storm with their contemporary take on the genre. The pair, namely Jonathan and Jared Mattson, are crossing boundaries with their distinct sound and even more distinct fashion sense.

The duo has been on the jazz scene for a few years now under the Indie label, Galaxia Records. Their utilization of the drums and double-necked guitar create an alternative ambience to their musical styling and get this – there are no vocals! They have literally thrown away the characteristically used jazz chords and based the foundation of their music on simply drums and guitar.

The pair graduated from the University of California, San Diego with degrees in music, hence the reason they have a series of residency shows in the county. Regardless of their residency in southern California, these two musicians have performed around the world, namely Brazil, Copenhagen, Denmark and Japan.

Don’t be fooled by the duo’s youthfulness, both claim to be influenced by classic (and eclectic) musicians such as James Dean, Morrissey and Marvin Gaye. Furthermore, they have already collaborated with artists such as Thomas Campbell, Ray Barbee, John McEntire of Tortoise and the Sea, and Cake.

Every second Tuesday of each month, the Mattson 2 performs at the El Dorado Cocktail Lounge at 9 p.m. For more information on the band, please visit www.mattson2.com.