Jeff Sipe: The Aspirational Spirit of a Drum Buddha

Drummers don’t always get a lot of love or attention. But, mention the name Jeff Sipe to nearly any musician and their eyes light up. Also known as Apartment Q258, he was a founding member of Aquarium Rescue Unit with Colonel Bruce Hampton (which also counted Otiel Burbridge of Dead & Co and Jimmy Herring of Widespread Panic among its members). I first heard him via early Leftover Salmon bootlegs and he’s toured with Tedeschi Trucks Band, Trey Anastasio, and Warren Haynes. Regarded as one of the best drummers alive, he’s also just a normal guy who lives down the street from me and who says “yes” pretty much any time I ask him to join me on a gig. Words really don’t do him justice; he’s just so wonderful and kind and supportive; I can hardly believe my good fortune getting to make music with him.

This episode was recorded live at 185 King Street in Brevard, NC on April 4th of 2023.

This episode is brought to you by Thompson Guitars and is presented by Americana Vibes and The Bluegrass Situation as part of the BGS Podcast Network. You can dive into all things roots music anytime at thebluegrasssituation.com. If you’re enjoying the podcast please subscribe and leave a positive review. You can find us on Instagram (@thetravisbookhappyhour) and Facebook and online at thetravisbookhappyhour.com.

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Timestamps:

0:06 – Soundbyte

0:42 – Intro

2:15 – Intro by Bill K.

3:26 – “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy”

10:37 – “A Little Too Much”

16:00 – “I Am A Pilgrim”

22:30 – “Once I Knew You”

29:17 – Interview

46:10 – “Summertime”

48:30 – “Minor Blues”

55:34 – “Back Home”

1:01:50 – Outro