‹ L'Off was off to a good start with two killer sets on June 25.  at O Patro Vys.   Ensemble Jazz Urbain de Montreal led by bass player Alex Bellegarde worked their Afro-Cuban pulse with great energy and a loose, good-natured, improvisatory feel… › neil brouillet

Ensemble Jazz Urbain de Montréal comprises some of the best musicians on the Montreal scene.  A colorful, swinging group which unites musicians from diverse musical backgrounds, bringing a fresh perspective to their big-band jazz.  Swing and Latin-groove pieces combined with open-ended improvisations and sensitively played ballads, make up their exciting repertoire of original compos.

‹ The ensemble project has its roots in my high school days and more recently as member of the Vic Vogel Octet.  My high school experience as a member of the Massey Vanier Stage Band was a great introduction to the world of the big band, not only learning how to get 'in tune' with a large group of musicians and the long preparation and organization for the shows, but also the thrill of stage performance, the camaraderie and that big powerful sound. › AB
 

Awarded a professional artist's grant by the Conseil des Arts et des Lettres du Québec in 2004, Alex was able to concentrate on composing pieces for a large ensemble.