The Matlock Report

I’ll admit it, I’ve been a bad fan. I don’t even remember the last time I saw Willie play and that’s horrendous. Either I find out about it after the fact or have some lame excuse, I don’t know…. it’s been a while. However, as an early birthday gift to myself I was excited to find out he was playing at the High Hat in St. Paul. I had never been there, it was a strange little venue but very intimate. I liked it. The Tommy Barbarella Organ Combo consisted of Tommy Barbarella (he really shouldn’t need an introduction) on Keyboards, Jeff Bailey (Hamline University, Doc Severinsen, Minnesota Orchestra, SPCO) on Bass, Riley Gulotta (Carnival Cruiselines, McNally Smith) on Guitar and Dave Anania (Blue Man Group/Greazy Meal) on Drums. It was my first time taking concert photos, it was fun and would to have some more opportunities to do it again.

Upcoming shows at the High Hat including a special one on April 11, 2026.

Master of ceremonies for the evening, Willie Wisely!

The Ringleader of the Combo, Tommy Barbarella (big picture above) along with Jeff Bailey (left), Dave Anania (middle) and Riley Gulotta (right)

Willie belts out the hits (his and other people’s as well)!

Just a small sampling of the equipment used to help bring Artemis II back to Earth.

When you are so cool that you can take a selfie during a gig!

Willie deciding whether or not to play “Surreal” to completely flummox the band.

If you don’t recognize these hands, then you are not paying attention.

Don’t forget the guitars….

The hardest working guys in showbusiness!

Take us out Willie…..