Tedeschi Trucks Band kicked off a three-night run at New York’s Beacon Theater last night. The new project led by Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks hopes to make their September Beacon shows an annual event, featuring different opening acts and surprise guests. Last night, the legendary Leon Russell opened the show and sat in with Tedeschi Trucks Band for The Lovin’ Spoonful’s “Darling Be Home Soon” and the classic “Space Captain” (which Russell recorded with Joe Cocker). Later in the night, longtime Trucks collaborator Eric Krasno emerged for a selection of songs, including “Learn How To Love,” “These Walls,” “Stevie’s Groove” and “Uptight.”

Tedeschi Trucks Band will return to the Beacon this evening. The Wood Brothers will open the night.