Robert Kimbrough Sr. Brings Mississippi Delta Blues to Brooklyn

April 14, 2019 by B.L. Howard

Lee Stafford, Robert Kimbrough Sr., Rick Long at Jalopy Theatre / photo by Arnie Goodman

On a spring-like March night, a trio of blues musicians stopped by the Jalopy Theatre in Red Hook and made themselves right at home.

Brooklyn may not be known as a hotbed of blues music, but Robert Kimbrough Sr., Rick Long and Lee Stafford played a two-hour-plus, nonstop set that might just change that perception.

Robert Kimbrough Sr., one of three sons of Delta blues legend Junior Kimbrough, showed his musical pedigree with scathing guitar solos and vocals. Kimbrough seemed totally at ease, as he explained, “I just wanted to let you know my style of blues” as soon as he came on stage. Just before introducing his two band mates, he explained that, “a lot of people thought my dad played … hill country blues … but it’s soul blues. That’s what he played … so I’m gonna bring a little bit of that to you tonight.”

Kimbrough, drummer Long and bassist Stafford have been together for some seven months, but the sound they created gave the impression that they’ve been at it for quite a while longer. Highlights included “Packing Up” from Kimbrough’s Willey Root album, “Stay All Night” and a surprise, as the trio closed the set with their interpretation of Prince’s “Purple Rain.”

Robert Kimbrough Sr./ photo by Arnie Goodman

Robert Kimbrough Sr. at Jalopy Theatre/ photo by Arnie Goodman

Kimbrough,who also plays with his two brothers in The Kimbrough Brothers Band, also mentioned that his “true blues experience like no other” would be on full display at the third annual Kimbrough Cotton Patch Soul Blues Fest being held at the Hut in Holly Springs, Mississippi, from May 17 to 19, 2019.

Whether or not you’re a fan of the blues, you would be well served to explore Robert Kimbrough Sr.’s brand of fiery and original music, preferably in person.

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