Michael Tarbox is a Boston-based songwriter with roots in hillbilly music and early rock ‘n’ roll. Best known as the frontman for The Tarbox Ramblers, Tarbox now focuses on solo shows.

At their best, Tarbox’s songs have a rough-hewn elegance worthy of the early blues and gospel he loves. His recordings span a gamut of styles, from the spectral Americana of A Fix Back East to the blistering backwoods rock of his Careless Love EP and the panoramic country of Kingdom Come Blues.

Michael Tarbox has performed in clubs, theaters and festivals throughout The US, Canada and Europe. In August 2024 he played a solo show at The Kennedy Center, in Washington DC. He’s appeared as a solo opener for Van Morrison and John Mayall, and worked with Robert Plant and Alison Krauss.

Tarbox’s YouTube page features live footage and home recordings.

PRESS:

“Between the string bass, drums and slide guitar, you won't know what hit you.” - The New Yorker

“One of my favorite guitar players on earth, capable of exquisite delicacy and roaring, distorted stomp” - Matt Fiveash, WFMU

“Homemade rock ‘n’ roll with a dose of rattlesnake venom and gospel-drenched howling.” - All Things Considered

“At the heart of Tarbox’s music is his guitar, as raw as it is charismatic. It creates an electricity that courses through every song." - Twangville

"His solo shows, where he distills his take on the American folk music canon to its essence, are few & far between. This is a comparatively rare chance to see a true master at work.” - Mark Erelli

“Grimy, thrilling noise... A Fix Back East depicts both sin and salvation, but Tarbox makes the ailment sound more enticing than the cure.” - Mother Jones

“Tarbox is the most evocative and distinctive blues-roots artist to come down the pike in ages.” - The Calgary Sun

“Raw, dark and otherworldly. A tour de force.” - The Philadelphia Inquirer

“Homemade rock ‘n’ roll with a dose of rattlesnake venom and gospel-drenched howling” - All Things Considered