Lisa Bell

Artist Information

Biography

Career highlights:
2011 Tour to Northern Italy-9 performances over 3 weeks including Florence, Italy
2012 US Tour cities include Austin, Lawrence, Indianapolis, San Diego and Seattle
JVC Winter Park Jazz Festival opening act for Hazel Miller and Christopher Cross
Opening act twice for Stanley Jordan; & Oleta Adams Soiled Dove, Denver
"It's All About Love" music video aired across the country on Frontier Airlines.
Has recorded with major artists including Bill Payne (Little Feat), Nelson Rangell, Gabriel Mark Hasselbach, and Machan

For nearly a decade, Lisa has shared a personal connection with her fans. From her evolution as a songwriter to her performances with legendary artists to her work with the healing benefits of music & sound, Lisa has invited us in to relate our own life experiences and journey we are all on together.

With the release of her emotionally compelling third album, Dancing On The Moon, Lisa continues her creative evolution as a universally appealing multi-talented artist, embracing her genre-transcending spirit. The Boulder, Colorado-based artist releases a 12 song-set featuring nine collaborations between Bell, electric guitarist Bob Story and acoustic guitarist Mark Oblinger (Firefall), who produced the album and wrote the title track.

The title song, “Dancing on the Moon” is a heartfelt story about a person who is spinning just out of reach, a strong metaphor about the life that we are all seeking. One in which we can incorporate a passionate career that is true and rich but often seems unattainable. While “Move On,” is about how hard it is to let go of the safe and familiar, even when it’s time to move forward in our lives and “Carry On,” encourages us to take that first step away from a troubled relationship, even if we don’t know what lies down the road.

Enthusiastic audiences have been enjoying Bell’s performances for years, and those who have been behind her since the early part of the 2000s have witnessed her growth from being primarily a jazz standards performer to an emerging indie singer/songwriter with deep jazz, roots rock and blues influences.

Bell, who has a B.A. in Vocal Performance from the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, has performed as the opening act for the JVC Winter Park Jazz Festival, on the same bill as Christopher Cross and Boney James. She also played as the opening act for Oleta Adams (2011) and twice for guitar great Stanley Jordan. She has also been featured in “Jazz On The Tracks” performances aboard scenic trains touring through the Rocky Mountains.

Beyond her own headlining gigs, she has sung backup in concert for Bobby McFerrin and Marilyn May and has done extensive studio session work, including a cartoon character for an upcoming episode of “The Big Green Rabbit,” a PBS children’s television show.

Instrumentation

Lisa Bell vocals, Mark Oblinger, guitar, Bob Story, electric guitar, Eric Moon keyboard, Christian Teele drums, Chris Engleman bass. Backup singers also available.

Discography

Dancing on the Moon 2010 release
It's All About Love 2005 release
Dare To Be... 2001 release

Links

• Lisa Bell Music

Audio

• Dancing on the Moon Compilation
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• Change is Free
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• Better Days
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• Move On
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• The Last Time
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• Carry On
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• What Can I Do
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• It's All About Love
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• Along the Beaches
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• Carol of the Bells
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Lyrics

• Change is Free
• Move On
• Better Days
• The Last Time

Video

Live Video Compilation

Photo Gallery

Press

• Indie Music Digest-Dancing on the Moon-12 Solid Tracks [+ Show ]
  

  Boulder Colorado’s own Lisa Bell releases “Dancing on the Moon” in 2010 which features 12 new songs,...Boulder Colorado’s own Lisa Bell releases “Dancing on the Moon” in 2010 which features 12 new songs, 9 featuring electric guitarist Bob Story & acoustic guitarist Mark Oblinger (Firefall) who also just so happened to produce the album & even wrote the title track.
  
  The CD kicks things off with the title track “Dancing on the Moon” a sultry intro piece that serves up steady beat, melodic jazz guitar, & smooth vocals from Bell. Track 2 “No Time” is an impressive groove that dishes out soothing melody, well placed percussive accents against more honey coated vocals from Bell making for an impressive ballad. Track 3 “Change is Free” shifts gears a bit with a steady low end groove that showcases a slamming rhythm section, impressive Hammond Organ chops, & well placed harmonies & vocal from Bell. I especially like her sassiness on this piece. The music itself has a soothing jazz-pop-rock vibe reminiscent of classic acts Nora Jones, Miami Sound Machine, Barbra Streisand, Eva Cassidy & maybe a dash of Natalie Cole. As this CD slowly unfolds its obvious the players in Bell’s band are quite accomplished. Kudos goes out to the impressive guitar work from both Bob Story & Mark Oblinger. The rhythm section (bass & drums) push the natural accents well. Last but not least Bell makes the whole thing work.
  
  What I like the most about this band is how well they seem to groove together, testament to hundreds of hours of rehearsal time no doubt. As for her vocal abilities, Bell’s voice works well within the confines of Jazz-rock. Her voice goes down smooth & fills the space peacefully & unobtrusively. Along the way you will notice some of her vocal influences – Gloria Estefan, Barbra Streisand, & Ella Fitzgerald. By track 3 the CD hits sold stride delivering 5 solid tracks back to back including my personal favorites “After All” & “Stand up” All songs are extremely well crafted & consistent across the board.
  
  This CD from Bell delivers 12 solid tracks all providing thought provoking wisdom with messages that are uplifting & positive. The music of Lisa Bell has everything you would expect from a professional jazz-pop-rock production. From upbeat “Move on” & How Long” to soothing “Better Days” to tranquil “Misty Roses” to grooving “Stand up” this CD pretty much has something for just about everyone. There’s even an impressive James Taylor cover” Fire & Rain” that mixes thing up well. From start to finish – It’s a rock solid CD. The CD ends with Track 12 “Carry On” providing rich conventional wisdom that simply cannot be faked no matter how hard you try.
  
  It’s hard to find any weaknesses with this CD. But if could say anything to Lisa Bell right now it would be take a few more vocal risks on some of your songs, & really push that emotional envelope in a way that is 100% un-choreographed. If you can do this you will no doubt capture lightning in a bottle & deliver some truly magical vocal performances. Turn to this instead of just another predictable vibrato, especially during the finale. Genuine emotion is a very powerful thing & at the end of the day can never be controlled – even in the confines of a recording studio. So turn up the heat & give us something we will never forget. This is truly what separates legends from other professionals. Some songs lack serious emotional delivery, & seem a bit conservative. It’s fair to say some songs are a bit dated & predictable sounding.
  
  After spending 45+ minutes alone with Lisa Bell & company I simply abandoned any hopes of finding any serious weakness. Instead as the CD progressed I became more and more impressed. “Dancing on the Moon” is a top notch musical production from start to finish. There’s not really a weak song on this entire catalogue. The musicianship is first rate; the songs are short and sweet musical experiences. Each one possessing a unique personality, flair, & signature groove. Lastly – the playing, writing, and singing abilities of Lisa Bell& her band are impressive. My hats off guitarist Mark Oblinger (Firefall) who is no stranger to the music business – for his guitar virtuoso & producers touch.
  
  Everything about Lisa Bell screams talent & professionalism. I guess could go on and on all night about Lisa Bell you simply have got to get your hands on some of his music and see what I am talking about. You should start with “Dancing on the Moon.”

• Music Emissions Review of Dancing on the Moon [+ Show ]
  

  What would be more of a challenge in today’s musical landscape: making an album that goes platinum, ...What would be more of a challenge in today’s musical landscape: making an album that goes platinum, or making an album that clearly defines the goals and aspirations of the musicians involved? Of course it’s possible to do both, but it happens very, very rarely. I won’t go out on a limb and claim the charming Lisa Bell’s latest offering, Dancing On The Moon is that sort of album, but it definitely seems to satisfy both the potential to sell a bunch of copies while simultaneously illustrating in sheer brilliance the musical spirit of Bell and her associates.
  
  The music here bends across several genres. Bell is known for a past that focused on strict jazz standards and according to her website, only recently has she begun to branch out into more pop, soft rock and rootsy soundscapes. All across Dancing On The Moon, this is evident, as her breezy, silky-smooth voice and to-the-point, classic pop-esque lyrics blanket the warm grooves and expressive guitar flourishes of her band. This is very much a defined “Adult Rock” album, insomuch as it deals with mature lyrical subject matter and, on the risk-taking scale, it ranks as low as it should considering the styles prevalent. From song to song, there is something to enjoy, from bluesy ballads to more upbeat rockers and the intermingling of each throughout. There are no true “stand out” tracks, but I could imagine each making a worthwhile single. It’s that sort of album, where a front-to-back listening gives the same impression as listening to one track a day would.
  
  Wonderfully expressive and detailed, with competent musicianship, songwriting and lyrics, Dancing On The Moon is a record that, while certainly filling the description of a “niche” record that won’t necessarily win over anyone not looking for a softer, more mature musical experience, is broad enough in its influences and atmospheres to attract a wide audience. Ultimately, Lisa’s soul and spirit captivate far beyond the rest of the sound, and it is there that most will either find something to love or something to leave alone.
  

• Rockwired Review of Dancing on the Moon [+ Show ]
  

  Albums that boast an eclectic mix of music are nothing new to me but in the case of LISA BELL’s late...Albums that boast an eclectic mix of music are nothing new to me but in the case of LISA BELL’s latest release ‘DANCING ON THE MOON’, I must say that the Colorado-based singer-songwriter gives eclecticism a whole new meaning. Her glorious sound is hard to put a finger on. Is it jazz? Adult-Contemporary? Roots music with jazz chords? After one meditative listen, a word like “genre” goes out the window and you find yourself getting lost in the lush, plush soundscape brought to you by an A424 tuning that the music of ‘DANCING ON THE MOON’ is set to. The title track is built around a playful jazzy bounce as refreshing as a glass of chardonnay at a pool party on a breezy summer night. BELL’s rich voice melts like butter over the arrangement. The meditative yet assertive ‘NO TIME’ is a most curious kiss off; a country ballad with jazz chords. Or is it a jazz ballad with a twang? MOVE ON is a tale of finding the strength to move forward yet not quite being able to forget the past. The upbeat number is accentuated by a plucky acoustic guitar and maracas.

• Jazziz magazine on It's All About Love [+ Show ]
  

  “Bell has a grand time here, and throughout the album’s 12 tunes, she extols the virtue of love and ...“Bell has a grand time here, and throughout the album’s 12 tunes, she extols the virtue of love and its sorrowful side as well, easily carrying the day with her zesty voice.”

• Singer & Musician on It's All About Love [+ Show ]
  

  Lisa Bell is a vocalist of a caliber that is rarely found in today's music. Hands down, she has one ...Lisa Bell is a vocalist of a caliber that is rarely found in today's music. Hands down, she has one of the most polished, effective voices I've heard in a long time. An accomplished vocalist and songwriter, Bell reminds the listener of Ella Fitzgerald with a newer, jazzier sound. As the name would suggest, Lisa Bell sings about love on this CD, and Bell pulls it off with flair. Each song deals with love, not always in an idyllic setting but in a very diverse manner. I truly enjoyed Bell's flawless voice which is very strong and evokes emotion in every phrase.

• Music Watch reviews It's All About Love [+ Show ]
  

  ...this new album by Lisa Bell follows this new template for jazz lite, and very fine it is too. Whe......this new album by Lisa Bell follows this new template for jazz lite, and very fine it is too. Where Norah Jones has a husky drawl of a voice, Lisa Bell's voice is pure jazz and melody…Call it jazz lite or easy listening or whatever, It's All About Love is easy on the ear and demands a wider release on a major label. This is a voice that deserves to be heard.

• Allmusic.com reviews It's All About Love [+ Show ]
  

  Lisa Bell, who has a warm and attractive voice, performs music that is jazzy but crosses into other ...Lisa Bell, who has a warm and attractive voice, performs music that is jazzy but crosses into other musical genres at times, a bit like Norah Jones, whom she recalls on the title cut of It's All About Love. A superior singer/songwriter, Bell wrote or co-wrote eight of the 12 selections on It's All About Love, all of which have to do with love of some sort. Based in Colorado, Bell mostly uses top local players including pianist John Armstrong, who co-wrote much of the material. Whether called jazzy pop or pop-oriented jazz, this set shows that Bell is a fine writer and a singer well worth hearing. Some of the tunes, including the title cut, "Ain't Divorce Grand," and "When You Look for Love," deserve to be covered by other singers.
  

• Cosmick.com reviews It's All About Love [+ Show ]
  

  …Most of all, though, there's Lisa Bell, whose talents include not only a pleasing and expressive vo...…Most of all, though, there's Lisa Bell, whose talents include not only a pleasing and expressive vocal instrument, but an approach to a lyric that makes every line sound like a gift delivered from her heart. It's appropriate that she approaches the subject of love with her singing. She obviously loves to sing. I love to listen to her do it.

• All About Jazz.com on It's All About Love [+ Show ]
  

  Lisa Bell's second album settles in comfortably with a texture that adheres to the tradition of popu...Lisa Bell's second album settles in comfortably with a texture that adheres to the tradition of popular music and country & western performance. Ballads and smooth sashays highlight her fragile delivery with comfortable ease.

• Improvijazzation Nation reviews It's All About Love [+ Show ]
  

  This album is our first listen to Lisa's work... she's a total pro, the recording is excellent & my ...This album is our first listen to Lisa's work... she's a total pro, the recording is excellent & my ears give this a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for any listener who wants to hear talent that shines ever so brightly!

• Keyboard Magazine Dare To Be... Review [+ Show ]
  

  Lisa Bell Dare to Be… (Hapi Skratch Records, www.hapiskratch.com) Some serious, searing, and sass...Lisa Bell
  Dare to Be… (Hapi Skratch Records, www.hapiskratch.com)
  Some serious, searing, and sassy jazz fronted by the talented Ms. Bell, whose voice can soothe like butter, ache with pain, and rouse the troops. Jon Glazer soars on piano and a bit of organ, and did most of the arranging. The rest of the band is first-rate as well, and includes Michael Olson on bass, Larry Thompson on drums, Wardell Harston on tenor sax and flute, Dexter Payne on alto sax, and Nelson Rangell on soprano sax. Among the treats are a simmering “Summertime,” a sultry “They Can’t Take That Away From Me,” a mournful “God Bless the Child,” and a bewitching “That Old Black Magic.” Bell and Glazer co-penned the beautiful love song “What Can I Do.” I look forward to hearing more from this talented team. MARK VAIL
  

• SKOPE Magazine Reviews Dancing on the Moon [+ Show ]
  

  Lisa Bell is ready to ring in the summer with her delightfully exquisite new record, Dancing On The ...Lisa Bell is ready to ring in the summer with her delightfully exquisite new record, Dancing On The Moon. This singer/songwriter from Colorado has an incredible vocal presence on this new album. Bell digs down deep to bring you spellbinding lyrics and an emotionally-drenched performance that will leave you wanting more. Full of feeling & devotion, Lisa sings with such a burning passion inside her. With an excellent singing voice and a true knack for writing heartfelt songs, Lisa Bell is taking her music career to the next level with Dancing On The Moon.
  
  Along with Bell, guest musicians are also featured on this CD such as: Bob Story on electric guitar, Mark Oblinger on acoustic guitar & Christian Teele on drums/percussion. Each artist added a wonderful dimension to the elegant sounds of Lisa Bell. The layering was perfect and I have to say that there were some very nice ‘n’ cool guitar moments. Each player complemented one another extremely well here and further added to that Lisa Bell appeal.
  
  Lisa blends together an exuberant amount of styles that will satisfy your musical cravings. I’m hearing elements of roots rock, light rock, jazz, blues, country, pop and soul. The overall sound has a very mellow aura to it with a very light ‘n’ airy approach. Pleasant music and pleasing vocals give way to the sensual & soothing side of Lisa Bell. This artist offers you tranquil music to put your mind, body and soul at ease.
  
  Bell is also taking an innovative approach to record making because she decided to use A424 RA Music tuning versus the standard A440 frequency. The purpose behind this is that this particular frequency is supposed to have healing effects toward the body & brain. So…you’re not just hearing any other album; you’re actually being healed! Everyone will have different experiences when listening to Dancing On The Moon, but there is no question that everybody will be feeling this disc.
  
  When it comes to the actual tracks on the CD, my favorite song was “Stand Up” because it is such a fun-movin’ number that will make you want to get up and get down! The tables are turned and the mood is completely changed around on song 10, “Fire and Rain”. You get a sense of a melancholy vibe coming straight from Lisa Bell’s heart. Lisa amazingly goes from happy to sad in such a convincing fashion. Full of compassion and always singing from deep down inside, Lisa Bell has a lot to sing for and always plenty to sing about.
  
  This singer/songwriter appears to be a special artist that has a lot to offer. A subtle charm is evident as I listen to the music and the voice of Lisa Bell. Audiences will grow once they get a load of these compelling & relaxing tunes for the soul. For more on this Boulder, Colorado-based musician and her brand new release, SKOPE out www.lisabellmusic.com.

Setlist

Original music that mixes influences from roots rock, pop and jazz with compelling modern arrangements; mixed with clever arrangements of popular cover tunes.

Basic Requirements

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