Bellar, Michael
Left Three Lanes, 2009, CD
Instrument: Trumpet
Issue: 15.3
Jazz Ruler Type: Fusion
Performance: 3
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: Michael (keyboards, accordion) leads the As-Is Ensemble, a quartet with drummer Brad Wentworth, Robert Di Pietro (percussion) and Rob Jost on drums. They have a funky, cool fusion sound that is centered on Michael’s keyboard rhythms and beats that are at times really funky. The beat example is on “Fur Turban” a funky cool tune that swings. We also enjoyed “Squashing Pollyanna” and “Misty Mountain Hop”. Bellar also plays accordion on a few tracks. This is a different kind of music, sort of a cross between progressive rock, fusion and funky jazz. It has strong appeal to targeted audiences. We caught these guys live in Charlotte and many of the fans who came to see Medeski, Martin & Wood found themselves as impressed with the opening act!
Publicist: Powderfinger Promotions
