News Flash

Singer/songwriters Rob Oliver and Jacob Vanko join talents to perform original songs from their upcoming album releases for the Hampton History Museum monthly music series on Wednesday, May 15, 6:00-8:00 p.m. They will share their time singing and backing each other up on guitar and harmonica for a night of their unique blend of Americana and Blues music.

Rob Oliver is an instrumentalist, vocalist, and songwriter who specializes in guitar and harmonica in styles varying from classic rock to rhythm & blues and everything in between.  His musical influences range from bands such as The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, and Radiohead to Little Walter, Paul Butterfield, and Muddy Waters to name a few.

He has been performing original and cover music for over twenty years in both electric and acoustic settings. Some bands he has been a member of include Two Foot Small, Softstone, The Retailers, Departure, The Grifters, The Groove Cats, and An Act of Kindness. Previously at the museum, Oliver performed with The Storyweavers and Cole Stevens and the Delta Daggers. His first album, “Highs & Lows & Blues” will be released this fall.

Jacob Vanko was born and raised in the Anthracite Coal Region of Northeast Pennsylvania.  The blue-collar towns of the once vibrant valley nestled in Pennsylvania’s slice of the Appalachian Mountains was a compelling backdrop for the young artist’s narrative and poetic songwriting style. 

An old soul at heart, the Jacob found a sense of comfort in performing and writing.  Learning to play blues and Folk with his father while being influenced by classic rock and grunge made for a unique evolution in writing, composition and storytelling.  Touching on observational themes from first-hand experiences brings a distinct intimacy to the songs audiences relate to and appreciate. His debut album, “10 Years” is due out this summer.

Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Proceeds support the museum.

Admission is free for museum members, $5 for non-members. Seating and capacity are limited, and first come, first serve. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Held in the Hampton History Museum’s Great Hall on the third Wednesday of each month, the Front Porch Music Series presents different genres and of music that have shaped the American soundscape and influenced talent in Hampton Roads’ vibrant music scene.

The Hampton History Museum is located at 120 Old Hampton Lane in Downtown Hampton. There is free parking in the garage across the street from the museum. For more information call 757-727-1102 or visitwww.hamptonhistorymuseum.org.