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Biography

Bob Reuter was a cherished figure in the St. Louis, Missouri music and arts scene, widely recognized for his raw, heartfelt music and captivating storytelling. Born and raised in St. Louis, he spent decades contributing to the city's cultural fabric as a musician, radio show host, and photographer. Reuter was known for his gritty, soulful rock and roll style, often drawing comparisons to artists like Bob Dylan and Tom Waits for his poignant lyrics and distinctive voice.

Throughout his career, Reuter played in several influential bands, including The Dinosaurs, Kamikaze Cowboy, and later, Alley Ghost, which brought him renewed attention in the local music scene and beyond. His work extended beyond music; he was also a passionate photographer, capturing stark, emotional black and white images that reflected the raw edges of urban life.

Bob Reuter's striking black and white photography captured the essence of the city's gritty and raw urban landscape. His photographic work, much like his music, was deeply personal and imbued with emotion, showcasing his keen eye for the beauty and despair found in everyday scenes.

Reuter's photography often focused on the overlooked or forgotten aspects of urban life, from desolate alleyways and decaying buildings to the vibrant, often challenging lives of the people who inhabited these spaces. His images were characterized by a rough, unpolished aesthetic that highlighted the imperfections and realities of his subjects, lending a visceral quality to his work that was both haunting and compelling.

His approach to photography was intuitive and spontaneous, preferring to shoot with old film cameras that added a layer of unpredictability and charm to his images. This choice of equipment complemented his artistic vision, emphasizing the raw and unfiltered view of the world that he sought to convey.

Bob Reuter's photographs were not just visual records but narrative pieces that told stories of resilience, hardship, and the human condition. His work has been exhibited in various galleries and venues around St. Louis, leaving a lasting impression on both the art community and those who had the chance to view his compelling portrayals of city life.

Reuter also had a radio show, "Bob's Scratchy Records" which became a local favorite on KDHX, where he shared obscure, old vinyl tracks, further solidifying his role as a cultural curator. His contributions to St. Louis's arts and music scene left a lasting legacy, celebrated for his authenticity and unwavering commitment to his craft. Bob Reuter's life and work remain a testament to the spirit of St. Louis's underground arts scene.

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