The Belltower

The Belltower (Chris Bell) plays American roots music, where jazz, soul and R&B all come together. “It’s all blues,” says Chris when commenting on his music or his biggest influences. From Lou Rawls to Dr. John, Grant Green and B.B. King, from Ray Charles to the Funk Brothers. They are all masters of innovation as much as they are a part of the classic blues tradition. The Belltower is part of that tradition and he approaches performance like a storyteller, building on a style that’s been around a while.

News

5/15 I am looking forward to playing a few gigs in and around Burlington, Vermont this summer. Nectar’s on Tuesday July 17th from 9p to 10p and Bar Antidote (Vergennes, VT) on Saturday July 21st from 9p to midnight. Drumming wizard Jeff Salisbury will be joining me on both dates, so you’re sure to hear some swinging grooves if you can make it. Hope to see you all there!

4/17 I had the opportunity to take part in this great recording. The Lucky So and Sos Featuring The Belltower and Ponder East is a collection of not-so-well-known standards and two of my original tunes. Check it out. Aaron Lack on drums and Terry Bowness on B3.

4/15 Here is a nice review of my EP The Belltower Blues Explosion from one of Austin’s most well respected blues guitarists. Thanks Van!

Very Cool, Lowdown Retro Vibe with smart and tasty licks that “say something”! You have a good ear for picking tunes and players. Nice understated intensity! Van Wilks- Guitarist/ Singer and winner of the Austin Chronicle’s Best Electric Guitarist of 2009