Seattle’s, Minus the Bear is a band that more bands need to look at for a role model. They aren’t rich (that I know of). They aren’t famous. But musically, they are probably one of the greatest bands out there right now. There is a reason that fans have seen them for ten+ shows, and are still going to every one, they always bring a quality that can’t be beat. Their songs aren’t that lengthy, but are packed with tasty taps, riffs, keyboards, drums, and instruments that haven’t been seen since the 70’s…and they weren’t used by bands then either.
This spring’s tour marked the band’s ten year anniversary, which is a feat in itself, but after the tour they decided to continue with another mini-tour for the northwest; they are like the Forest Gump of band’s, as if at one point they said “From that day on, if I was ever going somewhere, I was running!”. They made a stop in my hometown, Spokane, where I got a chance to sit down and chat for a few seconds with two of the most down to earth gentlemen I’ve ever met, Alex Rose (Keyboards) and Dave Knudsen (Guitar), in an attempt to figure out why they are such an amazing band.
One impression from the band was the fact that they strive to be musically great; from striving to use different pedals and effects to make their sound original. Alex for example, uses the limitless Reason software or Nord synths, which both have endless capabilities “I’m getting back into the Nord because honestly I’ve only scratched the surface on that”. Dave works with more pedals than anyone should have in their arsenal. Additionally they indicated something was in the works for their ten year anniversary, as well as a new album. “We have written probably about 9 songs, so far. We are trying to get up to about 20”
The band has an incredible stage presence, they are fun to watch, and they have some of the best tap-guitar leads, syths, and drums I’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing. Perhaps that is due to their influences, one of which is the prog-rock great Yes, among an array of others. Possibly due to how genuine of people they are. Maybe because they play for fun, doing sound-checks with Katy Perry, and Metalica covers. Or the magic could be held in their beards. Regardless, if you ever, EVER I SAY, have a chance to see Minus the Bear in concert, be sure you do. They do not disappoint, whether its your first time or your tenth. Hopefully they won’t finish like the Forrest Gump of bands, and one day say “I’m pretty tired. I think I’ll go home now.”
Pictures from the show:
Minus the Bear official website -Download the free Hold Me Down EP right now