Best known as a key member of the venerable folk-rock group Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, John “The String Wizard” McEuen is one of the most influential figures in contemporary American country, bluegrass and even pop music.   After leading the Byrds to country-rock success, guitarist Chris Hillman joined with singer/guitarist/banjo player Herb Pedersen to form the Desert Rose Band and pursue their shared passion for bluegrass and country.  These musical pioneers explore the back road of American Folk, blending Hillman’s guitar and mandolin stylings with the hillbilly flavors provided by Pedersen’s fiery banjo picking.