Reader Spotlight: Lee Presgrave

Lee Presgrave

Photo by A.L.Eye Photography

Meet Lee Presgrave, a man who has a really important day job. But by night, he’s a self-described “aging rock star”.

Lee is this week’s No Treble reader in the spotlight. Here’s his story…

Bio:

I started playing bass in 1985 when I bought a Yamaha BB300 from a local music store. I still have this bass and it’s been through about 5 different color changes over the years. I played bass in high school and college bands and currently still gig with 3 bands (2 cover, 1 original). I’m more interested in the bass now than ever and rip through gear like a madman.

Location:

Leesburg, VA USA

Day gig:

Firefighter by day, aging rock star by night!

Years experience:

31 years.

Bands & Gigs:

Yes, I currently play in 3 bands. The cool thing is I still play with one of my best friends (the guitarist) from my first high school band. Our band (Half Step Down) plays rock music from most of the current decades.

Another fun band I’m currently in (One Fine Mess) focuses more on dance/Top 40 style music. This has been a good challenge for me recently as I’m mainly a “rock” player. It’s actually caused me to break out of my box and immerse myself in the 5 string.

The Shallowz is a project that has over 50 original songs in their catalog. I’m (I think) the 3rd or 4th bass player in that band. They seem to spontaneously combust like Spinal Tap drummers. We currently have 2 songs on iTunes (Every Single Day and The End). Give them a listen!

Gear:

Spector basses – Just the best. What a great company. I current own or have owned close to 40.

Dingwall AB I, NG 2 – amazing long scale, fanned fretted works of art.

Amps/Cabinets – too many to list. I currently have close to 20 amps and 10 different cabs. Everything from SVT’s to Aguilar, Genzler, Peavey, GK, Ashdown, etc.

Why I play the bass:

Like most, my high school band already had a guitar player. Growing up, I always gravitated to the low end so it ended up being a blessing in disguise. I’d have it no other way. The bass is the force that drives the song.

My bass superpower/claim to fame

I have a pretty mean gallop thanks to worshiping Steve Harris in my formative years as a player.

My influences

Steve Harris, Geddy Lee, Billy Sheehan, Geezer Butler and PJ Rubal.

More on the web:

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  1. Lee

    Honored! Thanks so much No Treble.