JUSTIN HELLMAN
Genres: Third Stream, Hard Bop • United States

The sound of Justin Hellman’s ensemble has evolved over time. “It writhes -- with the fresh blood of locals Justin Hellman on bass and Eric Vogler on guitar” (SF Chronicle 8-05), who have been creating, performing, and arranging together for several years, developing an approach that is exciting and fresh while rooted in the jazz tradition. With influences like Pat Metheny, John Scofield, and Wayne Shorter, the group strives for a dynamic sound that carries a great deal of tension and release yet also possesses an element of lyricism. Justin Hellman was born on March 25, 1980 in Chicago, IL, and he spent his childhood in Northbrook, IL.  At age 16, his friends convinced him to pick up the electric bass so that they could form a band.  Within 3 months the band, Vision Route, was read more...