About 10 years ago, Col. Bruce Hampton played the now-defunct Barrelhouse here in Cincy. After spending the afternoon with the Colonel, I attempted to get a message to local politician and entrepreneur Jim Tarbell, trying to get him to the show so he could reunite with the visiting guitarist and singer.
In between Hampton’s first and second sets, in walks Tarbell and the two get to talk for the first time in many years.
Why the reunion? Back in the day, Tarbell owned the now-legendary Ludlow Garage. The biggest claim to fame for the venue was the album Live at Ludlow Garage, recorded there in 1970 by the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, the Allman Brothers Band. The opening act that night was the Hampton Grease Band, led by Hampton.
In the 40-plus years hence, Hampton has fronted many memorable outfits. One group in particular, the Aquarium Rescue Unit, became a thriving hive of future great musicians who would go on to make their own mark in the music world, including Derek Trucks, Jimmy Herring, Jeff Sipe, Rev. Jeff Mosier, Oteil Burbridge and more.
Now, Hampton brings his latest band to Stanley’s Pub, following last year’s release of the documentary movie, Basically Frightened: The Musical Madness of Col. Bruce Hampton, Ret.
COL. BRUCE HAMPTON performs Thursday, May 23 at Stanley's Pub in Columbia Tusculum with Mike & Dan from Spookfloaters. Buy tickets, check out performance times and get venue details here.
