SolidGoldFX Unveils the Beta-V Bass Preamp Pedal
SolidGoldFX has revamped one of their bass pedal offerings with the Beta-V, which they call a preamp that kicks. The Beta was their first bass-specific pedal, and the latest edition continues the model’s take on capturing the warmth and grit of vintage tube amps.
NICKO Releases Debut Album, “NICKO_1”
NICKO has just released his solo debut, “NICKO_1,” a bass-driven album inspired by a love of classic video game soundtracks. The instrumental record blends the sounds of retro synths and drum machines with contemporary pop for an upbeat feel and memorable hooks.
In Memoriam: Ray Shulman
Sad news to report as Gentle Giant bassist Ray Shulman has passed away after a long illness. He was 73 years old. The news was shared by his brother Derek on Facebook.
Bass of the Week: Neal Heppleston Solo Model
This week we’re checking out a gorgeous new double bass from Neal Heppleston called the Solo Model. Based in West Yorkshire, the luthier created the specs to benefit solo bass playing, hence the name.
Dominic “Forest” Lapointe: First Fragment’s “Soif Brûlante” Playthrough
Dominic “Forest” Lapointe is one of the most incredible fretless players in the world. He’s just released a playthrough video for First Fragment’s “Soif Brûlante,” which is highly demanding and equally musical.
Steve Smith and Vital Information Celebrate 40 Years with New Lineup, Album, and Tour
Steve Smith and Vital Information are marking their 40th anniversary this year with a new album and a tour to boot. “Time Flies” will be released on May 5th and will feature the drummer and his band
Acorn Amps Introduces the Solid State Preamplifier
Acorn Amps has introduced the Solid State Preamplifier, which takes the normal and saturated channels from their Solid State amp and puts them into a compact preamp pedal.
Snarky Puppy Adds Fall Dates to Empire Central Tour
Snarky Puppy has announced a new leg of their “Empire Central” tour that will take the crossover band across North America this fall. Beginning on September 8th, the trek will be a victory lap for their GRAMMY award-winning record, “Empire Central.”
Michael Anthony Working on New Supergroup Project
Former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony seems to have a new project in the works. In a recent interview on Trunk Nation, he teased the new band to host Eddie Trunk.
Marshall Amplification Acquired by Zound Industries
In an interesting turn of industry news, the iconic amp company Marshall Amplification is set to be acquired by Zound Industries.
Ampeg Introduces the SGT-DI Bass Preamp/DI Pedal
Ampeg is gearing up for the NAMM Show in April by revealing a new pedal called the SGT-DI. The company calls the unit an “entire rig in a single stompbox.”
Primus and Tool Members Join Forces for Benefit Concert
Les Claypool and Primus have announced a special benefit concert for April 17th at The Belasco in Los Angeles to support their friend, film director Jimmy Hayward, who is undergoing cancer treatment.