Reader Spotlight: Kira Roessler

Kira RoesslerMeet bassist Kira Roessler, our bassist in the spotlight for July 13, 2010.

Bio:

I have played in bands since 1977, performing live and recording. At first in local LA bands Waxx, The Visitors, The Monsters, Sexsick and Twisted Roots. Later I joined Black Flag and toured and recorded with them between fall 83 and fall 85 … Since 1986 I have had a band called Dos which is two bass players and some singing. Mike Watt is the other bass player. The joy of having just bass with no interruptions or intrusions is beautiful… dos is warm, wild, soft, bouncy … Song writing for dos is particularly challenging because we don’t believe there is any issue of “lead” or “rhythm” … The parts must intertwine and support. We have also covered artists: Billie Hiliday, Patsy Cline, Selena, Sonic Youth and others…

Location:

Studio City, CA, United States

Day gig:

These days I mostly work on post production dialogue and ADR for feature films and some television. I rarely get a chance to dabble with making money at music but do jump at the chance when it arises …

Years experience:

Since 1975 – so 35 years and counting

Bands & Gigs:

Yes Dos is still gigging a few times a year … and recording and finishing our fourth record. I also record in a virtual band building songs across the internet …

Gear:

  • Custom Garz bass – imitation of Rickenbacker but 3/4 scale
  • Eden Traveler Amp
  • 2 2×12′ speaker cabs

Why I play the bass:

My older brother’s progressive rock band needed a bass player. Of course by the time I was any good at all, he had moved on and punk rock was afoot in our household. Worked out well because I was still not very proficient.

My bass superpower/claim to fame

Ugh. Well, Black Flag has given me some notoriety. It seems a long time ago, and I feel I have done a lot since then … but that is where things are most noticeable for others.

My influences

Dusty Hill, Kim Gordon, Mike Watt, Geezer Butler

More on the web:

Want to be featured in an upcoming Reader Spotlight? Just fill out the interview questionnaire.

Get daily bass updates.

Get the latest news, videos, lessons, and more in your inbox every morning.

Share your thoughts

  1. Hi Kira,
    Just thought I would say hello. We met in the early ’80’s. I think it was Madam Wongs – Santa Monica. Hope all is well with you and great to see you!
    Bass regards,
    Joel Ciulla