As the Codetalkers continue their travels through the northeast, the band is now gigging as a trio. Bruce Hampton has taken some time off the road, while Bobby Lee Rodgers, Tyler Greenwell and Ted Pecchio perform in support of the groups forthcoming release, Now (which includes appearances by The Colonel). Meanwhile, the group has clarified the state of Hampton’s involvement in upcoming shows:

Months before Bruce’s recent abrupt hiatus from the band, there had been plans to step back once the band’s tour schedule picked up pace in support of their upcoming CD release. The fact is that Bruce has been on the road for forty years and wants a break. He has always said that The Codetalkers were really Bobby Lee Rodgers’ band, and Bruce’s presence has always helped draw new fans to the shows, but most kept coming because of the very things that drew Col. Bruce to Bobby Lee in the first place. The winning addition of Tyler and Ted also helped take the band to the next level.

But, with the impending release of the new CD, the band and Bruce decided that this was a fitting time for him to take a breather. The plans were that he would appear in key high-profile dates, but leave the hardcore touring to the younger boys. He assures us all that he will always be around and will always be performing, either with The Codetalkers, or with other bands here and there. He will definitely be at Bonnaroo! As for the more routine dates in the coming months, the assumption should be for now that Bruce will not be present. We will certainly let you know the dates when he will be performing.