Taft Theater | Cincinnati OH
He Still Got It!
Some concerts you enjoy.
Others remind you why live music still matters.
On November 8, 2025, I found myself back in my concert sweet spot at the historic Taft Theatre in Cincinnati, taking in another unforgettable night with jazz powerhouse Brian Culbertson—and let me be clear: this man has not lost one ounce of energy.
I’ve seen Brian Culbertson several times over the years, but it had been a few since my last show. You know how you sometimes wonder if an artist still has “it”? Yeah…wonder canceled. He still has all of it.
There was no opening act, and honestly, that told me everything I needed to know before the lights even went down.
Why?
Because Brian Culbertson doesn’t need one.
From the moment he hit the stage, it was obvious: he is the whole vibe you came for. No warm-up necessary. No easing into the night. He and his band came out full speed and somehow found a way to go even harder as the night went on.
Let’s talk about the band for a moment, because they absolutely deserve their flowers. Tight. Energetic. In sync. They weren’t just playing alongside Brian; they were pushing the experience forward. Every solo, every transition, every groove felt intentional and electric.
This wasn’t background jazz.
This was lean-forward-in-your-seat, feel-it-in-your-chest music.
By the end of the night, I was completely worn out, and I didn’t play a single instrument. 😂 That’s how you know a show is doing its job. The kind of energy transfer that leaves you exhilarated, smiling, and slightly exhausted in the best way possible.
Brian commanded the room with ease, moving between instruments, engaging the audience, and proving once again why he’s stayed relevant, respected, and in demand for decades.
Final Thoughts
Some artists age gracefully.
Some artists evolve.
And then there are artists like Brian Culbertson, who somehow manage to do both while still bringing the house down.
If you’ve ever seen him live, you already know.
If you haven’t? Let this be your sign.
Because when Brian Culbertson is in town, the opening act is optional, but the experience is mandatory.
