Johnny Hamil Benefit

A standout bass line might be a stealthy, almost imperceptible rumble, but if it’s removed, the song feels tinny and feeble. Similarly, bassists, though often underappreciated, play a significant role in shaping their bands’ sounds. Johnny Hamil has walked in Geezer Butler’s mammoth footprints with Eric, showcased his stand-up skills with Malachy Papers, and distinguished himself in the all-bass ensemble Wyco Lowriders. After he was injured after falling from a ladder recently, local musicians immediately volunteered for a concert to help this rhythm-section standby pay his hospital bills. In honor of its beneficiary, this bluegrass-roots effort should feature an unusual amount of engaging bass solos.