At 94 Years Old, Bass Virtuoso François Rabbath Continues to Evolve on “Amall”
Few players have changed the face of modern double bass as much as François Rabbath. Since the early 1960s, his lyrical approach to the bass and his teaching methods have inspired generations to follow. He has performed all over the world, and at 94 years old, he’s still at it.
The bass virtuoso has just released a new album called Amall with his son Sylvain at the piano for a project billed as the Rabbath Electric Orchestra. The father/son duo composed the music following six years of touring around the globe, weaving the musical textures of their travels into the new compositions.
“Melancholic and melodious, expressive and edgy, the bowed double bass—played in the high register where few dare to go—emerged as the musical guide,” the album notes explain. “One that draws a path between Seville and Minneapolis, connects François Rabbath’s native Syria to France, and bridges South America to Europe. It sets the tone to follow—the emotion that will carry the piece, and if not filled with light, will carry it there nonetheless.
Musical visions packed in luggage, transported in cargo holds, or imprinted in their minds just long enough to cover the distances to the next stop—father and son deepened their bond, beyond family and art. And their hands have never held each other more tightly.”
Rabbath is known for his contemporary classical approach that often elevates folk music. However, Amall is an exploration of jazz and funk. Sylvain was inspired by the sound of CTI Records, which exemplified that sound in the ’70s.
Hear the scoop on the album from the Rabbaths:
The Rabbaths are joined by a fantastic cast of musicians, including many bassists: Hans Sturm, GP Cremonini, Guillermo Benavides, and Poto Austin. They also welcomed electric bass phenom Victor Wooten on the opening track, “Sevillana.” Check out his killer solo starting at the 2:18 mark.
Amall is available now CD, vinyl and as a digital download (Apple Music, and Amazon Music).
If you’re unfamiliar with Rabbath, be sure to watch this incredible interview and performance on Discover Double Bass:
Amall Track List:
- Sevillana
- 66 Grand Street
- Samares
- Espoir
- Atoun
- Twin City
- Camomille
- Samir
- Creation
In his time with No Treble, Kevin has met hundreds of amazing bassists and interviewed icons like Jack Casady, Victor Wooten, Les Claypool, Marcus Miller, and more. He's a gigging bassist performing jazz in Northern Virginia and bluegrass with The Plate Scrapers up and down the East Coast. Kevin appreciates all genres of music, from R&B to metal and everything in between. Connect with Kevin on Facebook and check his performance schedule on his website.
