Help Rob Bell (MU330) Play Trombone Again

SKA COMMUNITY!

My name is April Dalton, I play trombone and live in Saint Louis, MO. Aaron Carnes, author of "In Defense of Ska" and I, are reaching out to our incredible community of musicians, fans, labels, family, ska-adjacent music enthusiasts, and future friends. Our good friend and legend, ROB BELL needs out help!

Rob has had to undergo a last minute dental procedure requiring him to remove some of the teeth that allow him to play his instrument, the trombone. He is devastated with the notion that he may never play his horn proper again, and requires getting false teeth or implants to help him continue achieving his music career + passion. Unfortunately the cost of the procedures and new teeth require a hefty amount of change. And Rob needs our help to meet those financial needs.

Rob is a dear friend of mine and a mentor. I would not be doing what I am doing today without his leadership, kindness, mentorship, and contribution to this thing we love: SKA. His playing skills, hard work, and dedication to his craft is inspirational. I think we all can say that he has inspired us all. And the way ska has evolved is thanks to him and his team.

As many of you know, Rob Bell is known for his trombone power playing for groups like MU330, Suzie-Cue, Brassy McBrassface, and he sits in with groups such as Boss Battle and Jeff Rosenstock with Dan P.

We have told Rob to do what he needs to do to make his career continue, and that the music community will help. Because thats what we do. We care and love our family, and we come through for them.

Robs has to provide a minimum of $6,000 for the dental procedure and production of his new teeth. We are hoping he can focus on the healing process of this new transition in his life, and when he is comfortable, to start working on playing again. Whether that means making modifications to the horn, or need additional procedures to help his playing return.

As you can imagine it is difficult to play a brass instrument with no teeth! $6,000 will cover the basics, but if we can raise more than that he can do what he needs to continue making music.

Rob also participates in Saint Louis community advocacy and social change. He works for Habitat for Humanity and is passionate about good health and cycling. If you know Rob, he is an insane fitness guy and can jump rope for hours. He is always willing to lend a hand, and give you straight feedback with no fluff in between. He is a goofball with the biggest heart and helps so many others, so lets help him out too.

Aaron and I appreciate your generosity and camaraderie with helping our dear friend out. Thank you for all you do.