As accurately predicted by Spinner earlier this week, Led Zeppelin/Them Crooked Vultures bassist John Paul Jones joined Nickel Creek alum Sara Watkins for her Austin City Limits set, early on Friday afternoon. Jones worked with Watkins on her self-titled, Nonesuch debut and for this occasion didn't put on the bass, but instead opted for the mandolin.

He adapted well during the ballad 'All This Time,' complimenting her tender voice as she played the part of crooner. During 'Hold What Ya Got,' they broke it down bluegrass style, with Watkins and Jones culminating in a quick fiddle/mandolin duel, while the barn-stomper 'Long Hot Summer Days' showcased Jones in more of a country light. While this was clearly quite a departure from the hard rock leanings of Them Crooked Vultures, Watkins and Jones make quite a team. She was clearly enamored with his willingness to join her, approaching him afterward with an ear-to-ear grin.

It had been a busy week for Jones already with Them Crooked Vultures, as he taped an episode with the band for the upcoming season of Austin City Limits as well as played Stubbs on Thursday night to kickoff the weekend. The band is on tour through Oct. 15.