Photo via Gov’t Mule’s Facebook page

Last night, Gov’t Mule performed at Lincoln, CA’s Thunder Valley Casino as part of their 30 Years Strong tour. Lukas Nelson + POTR supplied opening duties and, during Mule’s encore, Nelson joined the evening’s headliners. This time Nelson sat in on two songs associated with his longtime collaborator Neil Young–Crosby, Stills Nash & Young’s “Almost Cut My Hair” and Neil Young & Crazy Horse’s “Cortez the Killer.”

In addition, drummer John Molo subbed for Mule co-founder Matt Abts throughout the night. In a statement, Mule’s camp explained, “Matt Abts is under the weather and not able travel.” Molo first made his name with Bruce Hornsby & The Range and has been a core member of Phil Lesh’s various ensembles throughout the past 20-plus years. He and Warren Haynes are also members of the Phil Lesh Quintet and will regroup for some shows at Port Chester, NY’s The Capitol Theatre in March.

Molo will sub with Abts in the coming days, including this evening in Oakland, CA. Abts is expected to return in time for the Fox Tuscon Theatre show on February 20.