Bass Upfront: A Look Into David Sutkin’s Bass Collection and Community

Meet David Sutkin, a seasoned bass player from Brooklyn, NY, whose journey in music spans over four decades. Beyond his impressive musicianship, David’s deep love for bass guitars led him to become a dedicated collector of high-end basses from luthiers worldwide. His collection boasts nearly 200 basses and an extensive array of amplifiers, effects, and pedals. Alongside his musical prowess and collecting passion, David is an integral part of the power trio “Apollos Ghost,” a Brooklyn-based band with three successful albums and an upcoming fourth release.

David’s passion for music ignited at the age of 12 when he received valuable advice from his father, a jazz saxophonist. “If you always want to work,” his father advised, “be a bass player with solid chops.” Taking those words to heart, David embarked on a musical journey that shaped the course of his life.

Eight years ago, David’s fascination with bass guitars led him to seriously embrace the world of bass collecting. What began with owning a single Fender Jazz bass and a Peavey amplifier evolved into a remarkable collection that showcases his deep admiration for the instrument’s diversity and craftsmanship.

David’s passion for collecting and playing bass guitars overflowed into a community he founded last year, aptly named “Bass Upfront.” This vibrant Facebook group quickly attracted a diverse community of bass players, world-class luthiers, and music enthusiasts of all kinds. With its non-judgmental, drama-free environment, “Bass Upfront” thrives on fostering genuine interactions and supporting bass players of all levels and backgrounds.

“Surprisingly,” David shares, “there seemed to be a strong need for it.” The members of “Bass Upfront” found a unique space where respect, camaraderie, and a shared love for bass music flourished. This strong sense of community grew exponentially, thanks in part to the admin team of Chris Krizek, Guillermo Curia, Samuel Kaswan, Loren Jaynie Scott, and Brian Cottrell. The group now boasts close to 14,500 active members and steadily growing each week.

As the community continues to thrive, David’s vision expands. Inspired by the late Anthony Bourdain, he aspires to travel and discover musicians, cultures, and music across the globe. With plans to establish a website, YouTube channel, and enhance their Instagram presence, David and the dedicated team behind “Bass Upfront” aim to elevate their community while maintaining its close-knit and welcoming atmosphere.

Though David finds it challenging to pinpoint a single favorite bass from his extensive collection, his go-to for gigs is the 2019 Fender Postmodern P bass in Charcoal Frost metallic. This bass’s distinct sound effortlessly cuts through the band’s mix, giving his performances a unique edge. However, with a collection as diverse and exciting as his, David cherishes multiple basses, each with its own story and significance.

If you’re passionate about bass, music, and being part of an exceptional community, David invites you to explore the Bass Upfront Facebook group. Immerse yourself in a world of mesmerizing bass guitars, outstanding performances, and engaging discussions. The rapidly growing membership and supportive atmosphere make Bass Upfront a special place for every bass enthusiast.