Chris Forte

Come hear the Jam Jazz Funk blend that makes up Chicago's own, Forte Beers Merar

A powerhouse trio of Chicago's top players:

Chris Forte - Guitar

Paul Merar - Bass

Larry Beers - Drums

This special group of musicians bring decades of experience to their craft and relate with each other on a whole new level. Their eclectic sound features improvisation and interplay in a genre-bending repertoire, reminiscent of 70's funk fusion, along side new takes on standards, always delivered with style and charisma.

In the tradition of other jam bands, every show is different with the emphasis on spontaneity and improvisation.  Our expectation is for Forte Beers Merar to be a continuation of the taper spirit embraced by The Dead, Gov't Mule, String Cheese Incident, and others, intent on putting their music out to the world, as it happened.

Our next show is happening Friday, April 11th at For the Record Vinyl Club in Northfield. This is an invite only event, feel free to contact me directly if you are interested in attending the show.

 In the meantime, please check out the Forte Beers Merar EP, available on all major streaming services as well as this website.

Forte Beers Merar EP

Blue Bossa - Tight cover of Kenny Dorham's classic with an infectious, upbeat groove. Beginning with Chris Forte's open interpretation of the melody and a searing solo with some twists. Followed up with a melodic bass solo by Paul Merar, and an innovative section trading 6's with Larry Beers on drums.

Pass the Peas - The first single of the EP, this arrangement of JB's classic starts off cooking. Another unique take on a melody, Forte delivers here with some interesting 4th harmonies and into another scorching funky solo. Paul Merar follows with a clinic on smooth, funky bass lead playing. Larry gives up the funk on the outro melody.

EXTension - The group's first original tune, written by Chris Forte, starts with a hard hitting funk fusion groove and unison melody by Paul and Chris. The melody develops and harmonies twist through some interesting key changes. This time, Chris comes in with a wicked fusion diminished solo that brings the tune to a frenzy. The solo takes us into a quick mellow reprise of the B section and Larry takes the tune out with a chaotic solo on Paul and Chris' sharp attacking rhythms.

Green Onions - The EP closes out with a raucous version of this Booker T & the MG's classic tune. The intro is loose and funky and when the guitar kicks in with the melody, it takes off and doesn't relent. This tune is all guitar, tearing through the lead while Larry and Paul drive the beat. After an extended guitar cadenza, the group breaks into a fast bebop groove with a surprise quote to take the tune out.