Colonel Bruce Hampton And The Aquarium Rescue Unit
Colonel Bruce Hampton was an American musician, actor, and writer who was born on April 30, 1947. He was a multi-instrumentalist and a founding member of several bands, including the Aquarium Rescue Unit. He was known for his unique and experimental style of music, which combined elements of rock, jazz, blues, and funk. He passed away on May 1, 2017, after collapsing on stage during his 70th birthday celebration concert.
The Early Years
Colonel Bruce Hampton was born in Knoxville, Tennessee, and grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. He began playing music at an early age and was influenced by a wide range of artists, including Frank Zappa, Howlin' Wolf, and Sun Ra. He attended the University of Georgia, where he formed his first band, the Hampton Grease Band.
The Hampton Grease Band
The Hampton Grease Band was formed in 1967 and released their first album, "Music to Eat," in 1971. The album was notorious for its length, clocking in at over 70 minutes, and its unconventional sound, which was a mixture of blues, psychedelia, and avant-garde music. Despite receiving critical acclaim, the album was a commercial failure, and the band disbanded soon after.
The Aquarium Rescue Unit
In 1989, Colonel Bruce Hampton formed the Aquarium Rescue Unit with bassist Oteil Burbridge, guitarist Jimmy Herring, keyboardist Matt Mundy, and drummer Jeff Sipe. The band's sound was a fusion of jazz, rock, and funk, and they quickly gained a following in the jam band scene. They released their first album, "The Aquarium Rescue Unit," in 1991, which featured guest appearances by Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks.
The Later Years
Colonel Bruce Hampton continued to perform and record music throughout the 1990s and 2000s. He formed several other bands, including the Fiji Mariners and the Quark Alliance, and collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Phish, Widespread Panic, and the Derek Trucks Band. He also appeared in several films and television shows, including "Sling Blade" and "Space Ghost Coast to Coast."
The Legacy
Colonel Bruce Hampton was a beloved figure in the jam band community, and his influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary artists. He was known for his eccentric personality and his willingness to push boundaries and experiment with different genres and styles. His legacy lives on through his music and the many musicians he inspired and collaborated with throughout his career.
Conclusion
Colonel Bruce Hampton was a true original and a pioneering figure in the world of music. His unique style and experimental approach to music continue to inspire and influence musicians today. He will be remembered as a true visionary and a beloved member of the jam band community.
