Weekly Top 10: Talking Style, Talking Technique, Expert Columns, Top Videos, New Gear and More
Time for your weekly dose of the best of the best from the world of bass.
I was thrilled to see readers’ response to our how to columns and lessons – the list starts out with three of them – including the debut of Ted “Blyss” Gould’s “Talking Style” lesson.
Of course, the list also includes some epic videos, new gear and more.
Thanks for reading, watching, commenting and sharing.
1. Talking Technique: Tetrachord Workout
Similar to our last lesson, we’re working on exercises designed to shed your scales and build your technique at the same time. This time we’re focusing on tetrachords, which are four-note groups found within scales. You can also turn these exercises into speed training exercises by adding a few beats every time you play…
2. Cutting Through a Big Band: A Discussion for Bass Players
This week, Damian Erskine responds to a reader’s question about cutting through the mix in a larger band setting (especially when bass is the featured instrument). Check out what Damian has to say and offer your thoughts in this new “Ask” column…
3. Talking Style: The Tresillo Rhythm
Please help us welcome our newest contributor, bassist Ted “Blyss” Gould III! Blyss’s “Talking Style” series will focus on various grooves and styles in music. In this first installment, Blyss covers the Tresillo Rhythm…
4. Derek Blakley: Haji’s Kitchen Medley Bass Playthrough
Our friend David Piggott shared this awesome clip of Haji’s Kitchen bassist Derek Blakley playing through a medley of his band’s tunes, and I’m glad he did. Blakley brings real tenacity to his bass lines. The clip was put together to show the “flashiest” parts in the songs…
5. Nienke Lohuis and Fortheloveofbass: Aiming
Fortheloveofbass, aka bassist Ivo Schot, has released the third bass and vocal collaboration in his video series. This time he teamed up with vocalist Nienke Lohuis to write and record the beautifully atmospheric “Aiming”…
6. Bass of the Week: Ritter Instruments R8 Singlecut #1237
Jens Ritter’s basses have a style and finesse that makes them instantly recognizable. This week we’re checking out one of his R8 Singlecut models featuring a stark black and white contrast as its motif. The 5-string bass is built with a swamp ash body and maple top, all finished in white…
7. ESP Introduces Marco Mendoza Signature Bass
ESP has unveiled a new signature bass for Dead Daisies bassist Marco Mendoza. The Marco Mendoza LTD MM-4FM Bass is modeled after the ESP Vintage-4 with a set of EMG X-series P/J pickups. The bass is built with an alder body topped with flamed maple finished with a Dark See-Thru Green Sunburst…
8. Bass Players to Know: Paul Simonon
Ryan’s latest “Bass Players to Know” column is here, and this time around she’s focusing on Paul Simonon. See what she has to say about his gritty, reggae-inspired grooves – and more…
9. Reader Spotlight: Pim Meester
Meet Pim Meester, a bassist, teacher and student living in The Netherlands. Pim has a great story to tell, and anyone who lists Juan Nelson as an influence is big in my book. His gear list is pretty special too. Here’s his story…
10. B&G Handmade Guitars Announces Big Sister Bass
B&G Handmade Guitars has unveiled the Big Sister, a bass to support their Little Sister guitar model. The semi-hollow bass, which comes in fretted or fretless, was designed for old school flair. “This Big Sister idea was born with the release of the Little Sister guitar,” B&G writes…
