Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

MP3: Nathan Bell – Moonsblood from Nathan Bell @ 2640 (2008)

Nathan Bell probably needs no introduction, particularly to those of you familiar with Baltimore music. In recent years this elder statesmen of Baltimore music (one-time bass player for Lungfish) has come to prominence for his transcendent instrumental expeditions on banjo, as well as his Human Bell project with Arbouretum’s Dave Heumann. Bell explains the appeal of solely instrumental compositions simply: it’s all about “room.” He laments that vocals can often make a song feel confining to the listener, and the extra space for interpretation and musical exploration is appealing to him. Leaving the imagination wide-open for one to wander wherever the musical spirit takes you is key to his approach. Local label West Main Development captured Bell’s solo music in most glorious form with its release of a intricate live performance at the 2640 Space in 2008; the result is perhaps the most expansive and epic EP I’ve ever laid ears upon.

What may be most exciting about his headlining set tonight, is a potentially Earth-shaking collaboration with local sitar-wielding treasure Ami Dang. She was a casualty of inclement weather at Aural States Fest II, one of the more disappointing things to happen that night. The chance to catch up with her playing, a relative rarity nowadays as she records with Ehse Records for a highly anticipated release, will be a welcome opportunity.

Related posts

1. NoVo / Nouveau: Live Audio, Day 3 – Nathan Bell (2010.03.04)Photo credit: Greg Szeto [Audio clip: view full post to...
2. NoVo / Nouveau: IntroductionsYou’ve probably seen or heard something about this week’s inaugural...
3. NoVo / Nouveau: Live Audio, Day 5 – Holy Fingers (2010.03.06)[Audio clip: view full post to listen] MP3: Sunbleached MP3:...
4. NoVo / Nouveau: Jason Urick, Microkingdom, noteNdoPhoto credit: Josh Sisk [Audio clip: view full post to...
5. NoVo / Nouveau: Live Audio, Day 3 – Gregory Rago (2010.03.04)Photo credit: Tedd Henn [Audio clip: view full post to...