The CodeTalkers | |
|---|---|
 Playing the Freebird live June 2007 Photo: Julia Rodgers | |
| Background information | |
| Origin | Savannah, Georgia |
| Genres | Rock, jazz, blues |
| Years active | 1999–2009 |
| Members | Bobby Lee Rodgers Mark Raudabaugh Andrew Altman |
| Past members | Col. Bruce Hampton - vocals, electric guitar Tyler Greenwell - drums, punctuation Ted Pecchio - upright bass, bass, d Sean Peterson - Bass Nick "Zeato" Buda - Drums |
The Codetalkers were an American jazz fusion and rock and roll band from Savannah, Georgia, active from 1999 to 2009. Known for their blend of jazz, rock, blues, bluegrass, and funk, the band gained popularity in the jam band scene for their improvisational live performances and on-stage antics. The Codetalkers were formed by Bobby Lee Rodgers, a former professor at Berklee College of Music, following his meeting with Col. Bruce Hampton at a show in Atlanta.
Throughout their career, The Codetalkers underwent several lineup changes. Initially a four-piece band including Hampton, they later evolved into a power trio led by Rodgers. The band's final lineup consisted of Bobby Lee Rodgers (lead vocals, electric banjo, guitar), Mark Raudabaugh (drums, vocals), and Andrew Altman (bass, vocals). The Codetalkers were known for their extensive touring, particularly in the eastern United States, and appearances at major music festivals such as Bonnaroo and Vegoose.
The band's sound was characterized by their use of a rotating Leslie cabinet for Rodgers' guitar and their emphasis on improvised jams during live shows. The Codetalkers were also notable for their "taper-friendly" policy, encouraging fans to record and share their live performances. In early 2009, Rodgers officially disbanded The Codetalkers, citing financial issues related to their management at the time.