Hampton Grease Band
| Company type | Rock band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1960s |
| Defunct | 1973 |
| Headquarters | Atlanta, Georgia , United States |
| Products | Music albums, live performances |
| Website | www |
The Hampton Grease Band was a rock ensemble from the United States that originated as a blues rock outfit in Atlanta, Georgia during the late 1960s. Known for their unconventional live performances, they shared stages with prominent groups such as the Grateful Dead and the Allman Brothers, which helped them gain recognition. This exposure resulted in a deal with Columbia Records, under which they issued the double LP Music to Eat in June 1971. Despite its creative ambition, the album became one of Columbia's poorest sellers, surpassed only by a yoga instructional record in terms of low sales. Critics often likened their sound to artists like Captain Beefheart, Frank Zappa & The Mothers of Invention, and Pere Ubu.
Subsequently, the group signed with Frank Zappa’s labels, Bizarre and Straight, but dissolved in 1973. Following the breakup, members embarked on significant musical paths: guitarist Glenn Phillips pursued a solo career, while Bruce Hampton became part of the Aquarium Rescue Unit. Harold Kelling established The Starving Braineaters and maintained an active presence within Atlanta’s music community. Sam Whiteside took on responsibilities as road manager and, together with Espy Geisler, created the artwork for Music to Eat. Over time, this album achieved cult status and was re-released on CD in 1996, featuring bonus tracks.
On June 6, 1971, the band served as the opening act for Frank Zappa and the Mothers during their final performance at Fillmore East. This event also included appearances by John Lennon and Yoko Ono, and portions were recorded for Live at the Fillmore East.
Guitarist Harold Kelling died in May 2005.
The Hampton Grease Band reunited on June 2, 2006, for their inaugural concert since disbanding, held at Atlanta’s Variety Playhouse. Their setlist featured Music to Eat alongside cover songs such as "Rock Around the Clock".
Band members
- Jerry Fields (also known as Bubba Phreon) – trombone, drums, percussion, vocals
- Bruce Hampton (also known as Col. Hampton B. Coles, Ret.) – vocals, trumpet
- Mike Holbrook – bass guitar
- Harold Kelling – guitar, vocals, composer, cover art designer
- Glenn Phillips – guitar, saxophone