Alberto Kanost, a.k.a. Bear, is the founder of indie folk group Bear In The Forest. This folk group has grown into a perennial act at events, venues, and festivals across the Midwest. Bear was born in New Orleans, grew up in Milwaukee, and has been residing in Madison since his graduation in 2020. He was a participant in the UW’s Office of Multicultural Arts Initiatives’s Hip Hop and Urban Arts scholarship program First Wave, where he honed his skills as an artist and activist. Bear is classically trained in violin, has refined his vocals with multiple years of choir, and is a self-taught guitarist with over a decade of playing.

The songs of Bear In The Forest howl with spiritualism. They are built around folk music in the oldest, barest sense: joy and pain and a guitar coming together. You may find yourself in the North Woods staring at pine tree framed star lit skies, sailing through stormy waters, facing creatures of the night, or simply enjoying a piece of pie.

With guitar, striking vocals, and a loop pedal, Bear’s live performances take you on a journey through sounds of indie folk, Americana, jazz, and country.

Originally from Madison, WI, Joe brings dedication and passion that started when he was nine. He began his musical journey with traditional African drumming, later expanding into drumline and full drum kit. A founding member of the Black Star Drum Line, Joe’s foundation in precision and discipline continues to inform his approach. Influenced by James Brown, The Temptations, and Anderson .Paak, he has performed with a range of artists—including appearances with the Milwaukee Bucks and Madison’s own Joe B. Banks—while always keeping groove and versatility at the core of his sound.

Grown on a farm in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Ry grew up playing string duets with his brother in country bars and restaurants. Classical cello continued through college in the Keweenaw Symphony orchestra, including chamber groups and The Nutcracker ballet. A background in piano and inspirations such as 2Cellos make for a sound focused on depth and rhythm, while always listening and blending.