About Brandon Howell | Professional Drummer in Jacksonville, FL

20 years behind the kit. Thousands of shows. A few good stories.

His Story

Brandon has been drumming for 20 years with various bands in numerous genres, performing at thousands of shows and festivals across the United States. He currently performs with The Firewater Tent Revival, a bluegrass, punk inspired jam band from Jacksonville, FL. Brandon also leads the experimental bands Wigeon and kungfusion, and fills in for drummers across the Southeast.

With two decades of professional drumming experience, Brandon has honed his craft across a diverse range of musical genres and performance contexts. From intimate club gigs to large-scale festival appearances, he has performed at thousands of shows throughout the United States, with a particular focus on the vibrant Southeast jam band and festival scene.

Brandon's musical journey has taken him on stage with renowned artists including Col. Bruce Hampton, Charles Bradley, Jason Isbell, and Del McCoury. These collaborations have shaped his approach to drumming — flexible, attentive, and always in service of the music and the moment.

What drives Brandon is the power of live music to connect people and create unforgettable moments. Whether laying down a rock-solid groove, navigating complex jam band arrangements, or exploring experimental soundscapes, he brings professionalism, passion, and a deep commitment to the music to every performance.

Experience & Skills

Professional drummer with 20 years of experience in a wide range of genres
Expert improviser skilled at adapting to different musical styles and ensemble dynamics
Extensive performance experience throughout the Southeast jam band and festival scene
Festival appearances at Hulaween, Suwannee Roots Revival, Suwannee Rising, and Brainquility
Proven ability to back prominent touring artists and maintain professionalism in high-pressure situations
Solid groove pocket with emphasis on serving the music and ensemble
Reliable and professional approach to all performance opportunities

Bands & Projects

The Firewater Tent Revival

2020 – Present · Jacksonville, FL

A bluegrass ensemble with punk sensibilities, The Firewater Tent Revival has become one of the Southeast's most exciting jam band acts. As a featured performer Brandon has played over 800 shows with the band, including marquee appearances at Hulaween and Suwannee Roots Revival. The group has shared stages with Town Mountain, Jason Isbell, and Del McCoury.

Wigeon

2018 – Present · Southeast & Midwest

Wigeon is an experimental jam band with a dedicated following across the Southeast and Midwest. The band has performed at major festivals including Suwannee Rising and Suwannee Roots Revival, and has had the honor of opening for Ghost Note and Snarky Puppy.

Custard Pie

2014 – 2020 · Festival Act

Custard Pie was a dynamic festival act that performed at Suwannee Rising, Hulaween, and Brainquility. During this period Brandon had the privilege of backing renowned artists such as Col. Bruce Hampton, Charles Bradley, and Tim Reynolds of Dave Matthews Band.

Blues Factor

2012 – 2015 · Corporate & Wedding Band

Blues Factor was a professional band specializing in corporate events and weddings. Over four years Brandon performed at more than 300 events, including high-profile appearances backing Merrill Osmond. This experience taught him the importance of professionalism, reliability, and adaptability across a wide variety of settings.

Chasing Cabs

2009 – 2014 · Valdosta, GA

An energetic regional band based in Valdosta, Georgia, Chasing Cabs helped establish Brandon's presence in the Southeast music scene.

Kontrol

2006 – 2009 · Valdosta, GA Region

Kontrol was Brandon's early regional project in the Valdosta area, where he developed the foundational skills and professionalism that would define his career.