| TESTIMONIALS
It is with pleasure that I write a letter for Mike Bear. I met Mike after becoming a loyal fan of the band Pretentious over the past year. I can't seem to stay away from their performances because the band is so tight and each player so talented.
Almost as a bonus, I had the privilege of Mike joining my original band. He is by far my favorite bass player and I have worked extensively with many. I was first impressed with the perfect charts he wrote out by ear, but then much more by his innate sense of musicianship, his timing, oh so in the pocket rhythm with the drummer and his tasteful choices of phrasing. Mike put his all into my project and the musical results went far beyond my hopes. He is a pleasure to work with - a team player, a real cool and nice guy with great energy both on and off stage. I hope to work with him much more and I'm sure he will be successful in all his musical endeavors. Rock on!
Clare Diane
Producer/Singer/Songwriter
I am proud to say that Mike Bear is my collaborator and friend. His contributions to the music I have written has brought my project to a level I have always aspired to but hadn't been able to attain. His passion and knowledge for and of music is unmatched. Like alot of independent musicians living in Los Angeles, I have had the privelidge of meeting many artists who have been successful in the industry for many years. I have no doubt in saying that even the most long standing professionals could still learn from Mike Bear. Whether it be a small detail overlooked or conversely an inventive and fresh new approach to a problem, Mike's creativity leaves nothing off the table. I have the great fortune of working with Mike on music as he is the type of musician to inspire you to grow, work hard and challenge yourself to try new things all done with his trademark openness and kindness.
Andrew Starry
The Desert Junes
Over the past several years, Mike Bear has been a key asset to both my original band and to Pretentious, a tribute to The Pretenders. Mike's commitment and dedication to his craft is unmatched. In my original band, Mike's contribution of creative and tasteful ideas matched my vision for the music and helped take our live show to the next level. In Pretentious, his ability to lock in the right tone & feel -- and to deliver a precise performance that stands up to a very well respected bass player in the rock scene, Pete Fardon, is key to our success as a band. His work ethic as a player and band mate is top-notch, and Mike conistently delivers a rock-solid bass performance in a variety of different styles.
In addition to his playing abilities, Mike is a man of integrity, who is a pleasure to work with and is a true professional who will always be on the top of my list as a first-rate musician, a collaborator, and a friend.
Dina Gathe
Mike Bear is the only person I trust with bass duty on my various projects. In addition to always playing the perfect part, he makes really innovative and musical parts without overplaying. It always works with the song. In addition to being a very good team player, Mike is also very professional and fun to work with. He is very educated and plays many styles with much conviction.
Matt Corette
"Mike Bear is a great Bass player. He can throw down heavy, melodic, groove-any tempo, any time. His playing added another dimension to my original song (see Piece of Me on my page.) Mike wasn't just a second guitarist an octave lower which unfortunately happens a lot in heavy music. His bass lines made the melodic section interesting and memorable instead of long and drawn out. He has theory knowledge and live/recording experience.
Shivaji
"Mike Bear has exceeded all of our expectations!"
"His pure talents and professionalism exists on all levels; technique, performing, dedication to material, interpretation of material, consistent commitment to the project (as a dedicated team member), timeliness, dependable, and just a fun and easy guy to be around.
We have been playing with Mike on our live shows and recording projects. His abilities have brought us to a higher level. We only wish he was ours alone."
Dave Slade, Majic
He's one of the greatest bass players i've ever met. If it wasn't for his knowledge in music and teaching skills i would be the worst bass player ever. Everything i know i learned durring his lessons...i wouldnt even be into death metal if it wasb't for Mike. He's a good bass player and friend. Nick (student) |