Bell Orchestre

Continuing Montreal’s reputation as a refuge for instrumental acts redefining chamber music for rock audiences, Bell Orchestre boasts a backbeat that sets it apart from the pack. Bassist Richard Parry and drummer Stefan Schneider lock into Red Snapper-ish syncopated groove patterns that offset the elegant and stately violin of Sarah Neufeld. French horn player Pietro Amato provides additional texture while trumpeter Kaveh Nabatian runs his instrument through a space echo and other effects. And yes, bells do make an appearance here and there. Their skill and exquisite taste wouldn’t mean much if their compositions weren’t also evocative and captivating. Don’t be surprised if this is the next big instrumental band from this fertile scene.