Search - Will Bernard :: Medicine Hat

San Francisco-based guitarist Will Bernard favors funky, psychedelic soul and fatback, groove-laden jazz, all within a blatant rock context. Produced by the guitar-friendly Lee Townsend, Bernard has created a distinct milieu for his blinding, razor-sharp chops. Along with organist Rob Burger, bassist John Shifflett, and drummer Scott Amendola, Bernard is a relative newcomer on the jazz-funk scene. Still, his résumé posts an impressive stint alongside Charlie Hunter in T.J. Kirk. Rhythmically inclined and loaded with flash, Bernard exhibits his high-proficiency grab bag on lead and slide guitar. The compositions are stylishly diverse and hold together well. From wah-wah expositions to world-music fusion and traditionally jazzy discourse, Medicine Hat is an excellent musical workout for Will Bernard and his funky quartet. --Mitch Myers