Robert Randolph

(HUDSON, N.Y.) – Robert Randolph and the Family Band bring their unique blend of gospel-influenced soul-rock to Club Helsinki Hudson on Friday, December 12, at 9pm. Randolph’s unprecedented prowess on his instrument garnered him a spot on Rolling Stone‘s “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time” list, and also attracted the attention of such giants as Eric Clapton and Carlos Santana, who have collaborated with him on stage and in the studio.

Legendary musician, producer, and Blue Note label honcho Don Was pretty much summed up the miracle of Robert Randolph thusly: “He has mastered what is, arguably, the most complex instrument in the world and developed a unique voice that is equal parts street-corner church and Bonnaroo.”

Frontman Randolph played pedal-steel guitar for years in the House of God church, where it was called Sacred Steel. It was avant-jazz organist and frequent Helsinki performer John Medeski who discovered him, teamed him with the North Mississippi Allstars, and helped Randolph reach a wider, secular audience, as well as exposing Randolph to music the likes of the Allman Brothers, Buddy Guy and Muddy Waters.

Randolph’s group, the Family Band, is comprised of the guitarist’s actual family members Marcus Randolph, Danyel Morgan, and Lenesha Randolph, together with guitarist Brett Haas. At one point, the group can play a metal-funk tune that recalls Fishbone, and turn around and deliver a catchy pop-soul party tune that sounds like classic Sly and the Family Stone. The group covers tunes by Ohio Players and the Doobie Brothers, giving listeners a further clue to the group’s eclectic and wide-ranging musical ear.
For reservations in The Restaurant or in the club call 518.828.4800.