Felix Pastorius Joining the Yellowjackets

Felix Pastorius

About an hour ago, bassist Felix Pastorius posted an announcement on Facebook that he’s going to join The Yellowjackets, replacing bassist Jimmy Haslip.

“I guess its official, I’m a yellowjacket!,” Pastorius said. “Thnx to jimmy for his blessing and the rest of the guys for this great opportunity. Time to practice.”

Updated: 5:45pm EST

The Yellowjackets first reached out to Pastorius in late 2011, requesting a meeting and some playing time with the bassist. Last weekend, the Yellowjackets had him audition officially, meet with the band and “jam on new and old material,” the bassist told us.

Pastorius has ties to the band through his father, the legendary Jaco Pastorius and Yellowjacket saxophonist Mintzer. Jaco and Mintzer performed together in Jaco’s Word of Mouth Band.

“Obviously I’ve known Bob my whole life,” Pastorius said.

Mintzer called Pastorius yesterday to ask him to join the ‘Jackets.

According to Pastorius, Haslip is “healthy and happy and just wanted to take the year off to focus on other things…”

“The chair is still [Haslip’s], and I’m just fortunate to keep it warm for him… very honored and looking forward to playing some music,” he added.

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Share your thoughts

  1. Jimmy has so many interests and a large family , I can see needing the time! BLessings to all!

  2. Thank you Jimmy – welcome Felix!

  3. Wow! Is like having the reincarnation of Jaco on this band… Can’t wait to hear it.. But I still love Haslip as the main Bassist… I have so much influence on Him towards this Fusion-Jazz Band on the 6 String..

  4. Congratulations, Felix! they couldn’t have asked for a better replacement. Jimmy is an inspiration and so are you. Jaco’s legacy lives on…

  5. Best thing since pants with pockets