Articles by Kevin Johnson - Page 252

Deon Estus, best known for his work with Wham!, has passed away. He was 65 years old. The news was shared on his official Twitter account.

David Telfer of Brute Bass Guitars takes cues for some of his instruments from vintage design elements. That includes his Hex model, and this week we’re taking a look at the retro-inspired four-string as our bass of the week.

English Two-Tone band The Specials have returned with a themed album. “Protest Songs 1924-2012” collects songs with a message from the 88 year period. Horace Panter says the record was influenced by the upheaval of the past two years.

Mattoverse’s newest pedal may be called “Just a Phase,” but the company says it’s much more than just another phaser. The three-knob stompbox features an all-analog signal path with eight digitally-controlled waveforms.

After teasing their world tour with a spoof video last month, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have released a full itinerary of their upcoming global trek, and it’s going to be epic.

Eventide has expanded its line of effects pedals with the TriceraChorus. Inspired by the Tri-Stereo Chorus of the late ’70s and early ’80s, the pedal combines stereo bucket brigade-style chorusing with their MicroPitch detuning.

Last year, Mike Gordon and Leo Kottke reunited to release “Noon”, which marked their first album together in 15 years. Now they’re breaking another dry spell by touring together for the first time in 16 years.

Daptone Records has been leading the resurgence of classic soul since its inception in 2001. The label, co-created by bassist Gabriel Roth (AKA Bosco Mann), is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the release of a 2-disc live album.

Sometimes you can’t let a good thing get away. That’s why after a few gigs together, Jukka Gustavson, Jan-Olof Strandberg, and Thomas Törnroos created a band and stuck together to make an album. “Natural High” is the group’s debut recording.

Esperanza Spalding has released her eighth album as a leader, entitled “Songwrights Apothecary Lab”. Building off of the three-song EP from April, the album contains twelve songs.

MXR is now shipping the Deep Phase Pedal, which they say delivers “uniquely expressive vintage phaser tones.” The stompbox works well on both bass and guitar.

Steve Rabe, founder and chief engineer of SWR Engineering, has passed away, his family announced. He was 73 years old.