NEWS – Last night, I had the chance to see John Primer and the Real Deal Blues Band in concert, and while the whole show was incredible, I couldn’t take my eyes (or ears) off their harmonica player, Steve Bell. He was amazing. But before the music even started, Steve did something that completely caught my attention. He turned his back to the audience and strapped on a thick leather belt loaded with harmonicas—at least a dozen of them. It was like watching a gunslinger gearing up for a showdown, except instead of pistols, his “weapons” were harmonicas.
As someone who loves gadgets and everyday carry (EDC), I couldn’t help but think about how this belt was like a harmonica player’s version of an EDC setup. Each harmonica is essentially a multi-tool, ready to pull out at a moment’s notice to match the key of the song. Watching Steve effortlessly switch between them while delivering those soulful blues riffs was nothing short of amazing.
I wanted to learn more about these harmonica belts after the show, and while I couldn’t find the exact one Steve was wearing, I did find a company called Pinegrove Leather in the UK that makes similar leather harmonica holsters. They’re designed to hold multiple harmonicas securely around your waist, keeping them organized and easily accessible for performances. It’s such a cool piece of gear that perfectly blends function and style for musicians.
If you’re into blues harps or just appreciate clever tools for creative people, these harmonica belts are worth checking out! And if you ever get a chance to see John Primer and The Real Deal Blues Band, don’t pass it up.
