Gregg Allman, John Popper of Blues Traveler, Edwin McCain, and the Bottle Rockets are just a few of the artists scheduled to perform during the Warren Haynes’ Christmas Jam at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Asheville, N.C. The lineup also includes Haynes’ Gov’t. Mule partner Matt Abts, as well as jamming pals Col. Bruce Hampton & the Aquarium Rescue Unit, Kevn Kinney, Audley Freed, Dr. Dan Matrozzo, Joe Gunderman of the Jayhawks, the Chris Duarte Group, David School, Little Milton, Larry McCray, and Paul Riddle.

Even more guests are expected to be announced.

While Haynes and Abts continue touring together under their own names, the future of Gov’t Mule is uncertain since the death in September of bassist Allen Woody, who, like Haynes, once played in the Allman Brothers Band.

Popper’s band, Blues Traveler, recently regrouped for their first tour and album since the August 1999 death of bassist Bobby Sheehan.

A good old-fashioned holiday jam may be therapeutic as well as fun for Haynes and his pals.

“It started out as a chance for all of the local musicians to play together, the one time of year when everyone was around,” Haynes said.

“Each year, more national acts get involved. Everyone is there for the right reasons – to play good music and to spread good vibes.”

Wintertime Blues – The Benefit Concert, a double CD recording of last year’s jam, hit stores December 5. Proceeds benefit Habitat For Humanity.