Vocal plus instrumental sounds that have rhythm, melody and
harmony reflect Robert Randolph and the Family Band’s musical
expertise. This band fills the ear with numerous amounts of
astonishing tunes. When else can one hear blues, country, bluegrass
and rock audie all in one song?
A New Jersey native who loves the South creates a whimsical
atmosphere for any music lover. His music exaggerates as each note
is played from his pedal steel guitar. Not only is his instrument
unique-he himself and the atmosphere he inspires has a magical
feeling when the musical melody floats through the air.
“Between Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia the South is great.
You have good barbecue, pretty women … what more could you ask
for?” Randolph asked.
Live at the Wetlands is Randolph’s first CD, and this artist is
on the move to release his next album early this summer. Producer
Jim Scott has been working arduously in Los Angeles with the band
to release their first studio album titled Unclassified. This album
will feature songs that have been played live but also new songs
that will be a surprise until released.
Unclassified is just the way to characterize this music. Every
song they play has gospel, rock and folk elements.
“Our studio album explains our music,” Randolph said.
Onstage, Randolph elaborates note after note to pull the crowd
continually into his music never knowing what he will do next.
“Onstage his energy level is so high. He really enjoys what he
is doing; he wants to be there, and that is what I appreciate most
about him,” MSU student Jeremy Rizer said.
With each appearance, Randolph satiates the audience in a
whimsical manner. Fans from all over are finding Randolph’s music
as a remedy to escape everyday lifestyles.
This past January, Randolph played at the House of Blues in
Orlando, Fla., with JB and friends. The concert benefited to fight
spinal muscular atrophy.
“That whole night people came together to have a good time and
donate money for a good cause, which makes playing more fun because
not only are you entertaining, you are also helping people in
need,” Randolph said.
Robert Randolph and the Family Band have played with numerous
artists such as Dave Matthews Band, Widespread Panic, moe., The
String Cheese Incident, The Blind Boys of Alabama, The Derek Trucks
Band plus many more.
Sign up on his Web site for a chance to win a lap steel guitar
and a free lesson from Randolph himself. Go to
www.robertrandolph.net.
March 21 will be Randolph and the Family Band’s first appearance
at the New Daisy in Memphis. They will continue their tour,
sweeping each listener off their feet, and will be back down South
on May 18 at City Stages in Birmingham, Ala. He can also be heard
at Bonnaroo Music Festival June 14.