Bill Bellamy Performs Standup at Pittsburgh Improv; Andre Costello and Forestry Division Play Cattivo (Fri., 5/25/23)

1) Bill Bellamy is often cited by famous comedians as someone whose comedy they enjoy. Now you can as well, Bellamy will open a three day run at the Pittsburgh Improv beginning tonight with a show at 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. He started his comedy career while an economics student at Rutger’s University and got his first major taste of success on HBO’s Russell Simmons’ “Def Comedy Jam.” During his appearance on the jam he is credited for inventing the phrase “booty call.” He spent many years at MTV as a VJ and host. Bellamy has hosted several TV shows included TV One’s “Who’s Got the Jokes” and NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.”  He also costarred with John Lovitz, Tim Meadows, and Vivica A. Fox on the syndicated program “Mr. Box Office.” It’s probably not a good idea to heckle Bellamy as his cousin is Shaquille O’Neal. 166 E. Bridge St, Homestead.

2) Andre Costello‘s band used to be called the Cool Minors, now he says they’ve grown up a little over the last several years and are now known as Forestry Division. They are a rising rock band in the area. Their sound is rooted in crunchy guitar riffs, melodic keyboards, intricate drumming, melodic vocals with a touch of reverb, and some occasional ‘60s psychedelia. The group’s latest LP release is Resident Frequencies, which contains the track “Kinda (Makes You Feel Good).” Look for a new LP in September.  Special guest is Animal Scream. Cattivo, 9 p.m. 146 44th St., Lawrenceville.

3) Essential Machine is a Pittsburgh Indy Rock trio composed of a tight knit family that is also a tight musical group. Exponential Crisis is the band’s latest EP. You can catch them tonight at The Bridge Music Bar with the talented God’s Green Apples and The Anti Corn League. 8 p.m. 6018 Broad St., East Liberty.

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