LeRoy Bell has written songs for Elton John and played with B.B. King and LeAnn Rimes

The Entertainer

ALBANY - LeRoy Bell and His Only Friends will venture south from Seattle for a show at 8 p.m. Friday, March 27, at the Venetian Theater, 241 First Ave. W.

His new album, "A Change Is Coming," represents a major leap for singer/songwriter Bell. Not only has he grown as a touring artist, but also the experience has given his music an edge that places him into a league of performers creating a sound that crosses many demographics. All the songs were born from Bell's multiple perspectives of life…social concerns, youth, love, loss and an intense optimism for humanity.

This being Bell's fourth solo release confirms the wide-spread spectacular reception he continues to receive from fans and critics alike. As a young writer, LeRoy jumped into the music arena teaming with Casey James, writing songs that would be recorded by The Spinners, The O'Jays, The Temptations, Rita Marley and most notably Elton John. Taking a cue from his roots, the soul and R&B styles incorporated into "A Change Is Coming" plays out on the contemporary musical field with a optimistic perspective in these trying times. "A Change is Coming" is heartfelt, honest and much needed in a world of too many uncertainties to count.

Bell has recently performed with B.B. King, Al Green, Taj Mahal, Jackie Green, Keb Mo, LeAnn Rimes, The Temptations, The O'Jays, Mavis Staples, Colin Hay, Leon Russell, Sonny Landreth, Kenny Loggins, The Young Dubliners and others.

Popular Boise-based loop artist James Orr will open Friday's show for Bell.

Check it out

LeRoy Bell and His Only Friends, James Orr, doors 7 p.m. , concert 8 p.m., March 27, Venetian Theater, 241 First Ave. W., Albany. Admission: $15 in advance, $18 at the door, reserved balcony seats $20. Tickets available at Wyatt's Eatery in Albany (221 First Ave. W.) or Grass Roots Books & Music in Corvallis (227 S.W. Second St.) or www.mothertuckerpresents.com. Information: 791-3569.

To see music videos of LeRoy Bell and James Orr click here