After spending the past few years in semi-hibernation, hosting a series of weekend jam-sessions in his Woodstock barn, The Band’s Levon Helm returned to the pubic eye this weekend.  On Friday and Saturday the former Band drummer/mandolinist/singer hosted a pair of guest-laden performances at New York’s Beacon Theater. Fronting an expanded backing band which included former Bob Dylan/Phil Lesh guitarist Larry Campbell and Fab Faux/Late Night guitarist Jimmy Vivino, Helm switched back and forth between drums and mandolin throughout the night. On both nights roots-rock combo Ollabelle, which features Helm’s daughter Amy, supplied support duties and father/daughter duo shared a duet on “Goodbye My Love.” On Friday New Orleans icon Allen Toussaint  also appeared on “Yes We Can,” while  Beacon Theater-veteran Warren Haynes supplied vocals and guitar on "I Shall be Released", "The Weight,” and "Take me to the River.” Theresa Andersson also took the stage to help Helm through a version of “Did You Love Me.”

Saturday’s performance featured another round of guests, including longtime Band keyboardist Garth Hudson, who appeared on a show closing version of “Take Me To the River.” Dr. John, who played with The Band during its famed Last Waltz  performance, also made a surprise appearance, playing keyboards on a handful of numbers beginning with “Such a Night.” Haynes, Anderson and Toussaint reprised their rolls from Friday night, with most of the cast appearing for a final jam based around “Take Me To the River.” Helm will appear at Tarrytown, NY’s Music Hall  on  March 28.

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