The year 2026 opened on a high note with the fourth annual Eric Barnett’sA Tribute to Jeff Beck, a now-established Bay Area tradition that continues to grow in scope, ambition, and audience. The tribute launched a three-night consecutive run across the San Francisco Bay Area, drawing hundreds of devoted fans and culminating in a sold-out performance at Almost Famous Wine Company in Livermore. Equal parts reverent and adventurous, the production once again proved that Beck’s fearless spirit still resonates deeply within the modern guitar and rhythm section community.

Musical director and producer Eric Barnett curated a lineup that reflected both technical mastery and stylistic range. Legendary bassist Stu Hamm anchored the evening with his unmistakable blend of melodic precision and harmonic daring, reminding audiences why his work across jazz, rock, and fusion remains so influential. Hamm’s recent performances continue to highlight his fluid command of extended-range bass and compositional sensibility, traits that translated seamlessly into Beck’s demanding repertoire.

The guitar roster was a showcase of contemporary excellence. Daniele Gottardo delivered searing, articulate lines informed by his progressive and shred background, while Jude Gold, long respected for his work as a player, educator, and journalist, balanced flash with deep musicality. Jules Leyhe, Jimmy Leslie, and Danny Jones each brought distinct tonal identities to the stage, collectively capturing the wide stylistic arc of Beck’s career—from raw blues rock to sophisticated jazz fusion—without ever slipping into imitation.

The rhythm section was particularly formidable. Alongside Hamm, bassists Farida Nelson and Tara Rae added depth and variety, each known for their versatility across modern rock, funk, and groove-oriented projects. Nelson’s recent live work emphasizes pocket, tone, and authority, while Rae’s performances continue to showcase her adaptability and strong musical instincts across collaborative settings. Drummers Mike Vanderhule, Jimmy Wells, and Shane Barnettrotated with precision and power, locking tightly with the bassists and driving the dynamic shifts that Beck’s music demands.

Keyboardist Frank Martin provided harmonic color and textural nuance throughout the set, reinforcing the fusion elements of the material, while vocalist Darby Gould brought commanding presence and emotional weight, drawing from her extensive experience fronting high-energy rock and soul projects. Together, the ensemble struck a rare balance: honoring the complexity of Jeff Beck’s music while keeping the performances visceral, human, and alive.

This exclusive footage was captured at The Boardwalk in Orangevale, CA, a hip, intimate venue known for its Hawaiian-inspired food, excellent sound, and a steady stream of international touring artists. The setting proved ideal for documenting the electricity of the performances and the deep musical interplay onstage.

With each passing year, A Tribute to Jeff Beck continues to evolve, not only as a celebration of a singular musical icon, but as a gathering point for today’s most compelling players. The 2026 edition reaffirmed that Beck’s legacy is not frozen in history—it’s alive, expanding, and being carried forward by musicians who understand both the notes and the spirit behind them.

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