Minus The Bear
Getting past the unique name of this Seattle, Washington group is easy, considering the musicianship displayed on “Planet of Ice” (2007). This veteran group promotes the new CD with an extensive tour that stretches from Austin in Texas to Amsterdam across the big pond. Word is that the London show is sold out and that’s at the end of the two-month journey.
Minus The Bear is variously billed in the media and recording industry as experimental, indie and rock. Personal note: Growing up listening to legends such as Yes, it’s good to hear that MTB is continuing to play at the top of the “quality rock” pile. The drumming and the chord changes fit very tightly, and the guitar work is some of the best among recent work. For those who haven’t had the pleasure, check out “Pachuca Sunrise” from 2005 and Dr. L’Ling from the new CD. Keyboards help set this band apart.
MTB includes Dave Knudson – guitar; Cory Murchy – bass; Alex Rose – synthesizer, drum machine, vocals, saxophone, electronics; Jake Snider – lead vocals, guitar; Erin Tate – drums. Originally the band’s keyboard expert, Matt Bayles left the band to give more attention to his work as a producer in the recording industry.
Once named the MTV band of the week, Minus The Bear has created and produced a number of fine works, including: This Is What I Know About Being Gigantic (2001); Highly Refined Pirates (2002); They Make Beer Commercials Like This (2004); Menos el Oso (2005); Interpretationes del Oso (2007).
Tags: independent music, music, indie music, minus the bear, indie
Was given the new album by a friend and to be honest I listened to it once and then chucked it in the glove box of the car.
Found it a wee while ago and gave it a bit of a second chance and it’s growing on me. I have the bonus disc as well and one of my favourite tracks is Patiently Waiting.
I see that they’re touring the UK soon, I’ll be there if I get the chance.
I’ve got tickerts to the London show! A friend of mine picked them up from a contact all the way over in Seattle. Can’t wait to see them, been a big fan for ages.
I agree – “Patiently Waiting” is a classic
I thought thier album Planet ice was excellent and the case is in the glove box but the CD ius in the auto changer in the trunk, I certainly wouldn’t class thier music as experimental!
wow, they have a big upcoming concerts list, that is nice, a new band becoming known quicly, enjoyed that song Lotus, it is relaxing, beautiful and calming at the same time, the vocals are great, enjoyed this one too, it has some nice lyrics, hope they’ll become known abroad soon!
Oh, I love the instrumentals of these guys. Pachuca Sunrise is really beautiful, and the music style is really different too. The lead’s voice is pretty soothing as well. I can’t say I’ve ever heard of them till now, but now I know I’m going to have to go to the music store and see if they have a cd, as Minus the Bear is awesome!