Last original New Rider David Nelson rides into Auburn to play Odd Fellows Lodge

Auburn is in for a very special treat Friday, March 24, as the David Nelson Band plays its first show at the Foothill Fillmore (aka the Odd Fellows Lodge). Nelson is a legendary musician, first gaining recognition playing folk and bluegrass with his good friend Jerry Garcia and the Wildwood Boys. Soon after Garcia took off to play with the Grateful Dead, Nelson started a band. A few years later, Garcia, Nelson and their friend "Marmaduke" joined forces to create the legendary psychedelic country band New Riders of the Purple Sage (NRPS). This configuration lasted a little while until Jerry left, focusing on the Dead and other projects, but Nelson remained and is now the only original member of NRPS. Fun projects have arisen along the way, including the Jerry Garcia Almost Acoustic Band for which Nelson was a member, and he, along with the amazing Barry Sless (Bob Weir and the Wolf Brothers, Moonalice, Great American Taxi) and bassist Pete Sears (Jefferson Starship, Rod Stewart), created the David Nelson Band. This core trio, along with other amazing players, will bring their magic to the funky and fun Foothill Fillmore. Be it a classic cover such as "Take a Letter, Maria" to NRPS favorites and more, this will be a special show for sure. In addition to the music, Keep Smilin' Promotions is bringing in a special multi-media light show by Steve Goldsmith and Liquid Lights Productions. This journeyman in light shows brings the traditional art of liquid lights and combines it with modern-day technology for a one-of-a-kind experience that will be so symbiotic with the music of the David Nelson Band. This is a 21-and-over show, as the Odd Fellows provide a full bar, including local craft beer by Crooked Lane Brewing, and much more. Odd Fellows also has snacks on hand, but Keep Smilin's "Purveyor of Fun" Scott Holbrook recommends folks come to Auburn early and grab a meal and beverage at one of the great places around town. Holbrook also reminds folks this is not a seated show. There are a few bench seats for ADA, available on a first-come basis. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the music will start no later than 8. Tickets cost $35 in advance and are available online at www.keepsmilinpromotions.com or paper tickets at Cherry Records and Tribal Weaver in Auburn, Yabobo in Nevada City, Clock Tower Records in Grass Valley and Pop-Art Framing in Placerville. Tickets are $40 at the door. DAVID NELSON BAND When: Friday, March 24, doors at 7 p.m., music at 8. Where: Auburn Odd Fellows Lodge, 1226 Lincoln Way Tickets: $35 advance, $40 day of show (ID required). Tickets available at Cherry Records, Tribal Weaver, Clock Tower Records, Yabobo and Pop Art Gallery. Tickets online and more information at www.keepsmilinpromotions.com.