Pat Cambell is a good 'ol boy. Many of you might recognize his name from any one of the Bay Area bands he's been in or some of the incredible bass work he has contributed to the groove of many other artists including The Earl Brothers. One album, "Pistol Packin' Mama" from The Good Old Boys (one of Pats legendary bands) especially features Pat showing his talent as a bluegrass musician, but it sure doesn't stop there. I have had the pleasure of listening to Pat play in all sorts of settings and with all sorts of musicians - when he lays down the groove it's fat and solid and makes my feet take on a mind of their own.

I met Pat back in, I want to say, 1982. I was living in a house near Potrero Hill back then with the fabulous singer/songwriter/guitarist Phil Kelly. It was Phil who introduced me to Pat and also provided me with my first musical experience with the master bass player. We all decided to have a little jam in the kitchen one afternoon - especially peculiar as I was playing "bluegrass guitar" which would certainly be an insult to anyone who really knows how to play the thing. But at least we had fun, and I got to be acquainted with Pat.

It wasn't until many years later, and the Keepers of the Golden Heart, that I finally got to connect with him in a great way. Since then we've enjoyed playing together many times, most recently at the wonderful Water Brothers barn party that happens every year - an event that music lovers shouldn't miss.

Pat introduced me to Dirk Hamilton when Dirk was looking for a keyboard player to compliment his band during a tour of Italy. Thanks to Pat, and Dirk's willingness to take a risk on someone he didn't know, I got to go on the trip.

Pat Campbell is an excellent musician matched only by his excellence as a human being. Thanks Pat.