Articles by Kevin Johnson - Page 254

BASS OF THE WEEK: Eastwood Guitars has a knack for recreating vintage basses in a modern format while retaining all their glorious mojo. That’s evident in their take on the Airline Pocket Bass, which was introduced two years ago.

Northern Lutherie has introduced a new upright bass pickup called Da Crusher. Named in honor of the wrestler “who made Milwaukee famous,” the pickup is a stacked 20mm piezo system that is fitted into the bridge.

Blackstar Amplification has unveiled the amPlug 2 FLY, a compact headphone amplifier that comes in versions for guitar and for bass. Each features a fully analog circuit that’s been reworked for a clearer and more present sound, the company says.

Tool fans have a little more to chew on until the release of the band’s new album. The group, anchored by bassist Justin Chancellor, revealed the title will be “Fear Inoculum” and that it will be released on August 30th. They also released their entire catalog on all digital platforms.

Former Spinal Tap bassist Derek Smalls (aka Harry Shearer) has announced a new set of dates for his Lukewarm Water, LIVE! tour. The outing will include four shows on the West Coast of the US and Canada.

Aguilar introduced a new pickup design at the Summer NAMM Show with the DCB-M4 and M5. The pickups, which are four and five-string versions of the same model, are humbuckers in a familiar shape.

Dream Theater has announced a second leg to their latest tour. The band, anchored by John Myung, is performing songs off their latest release, as well as the 1999 album “Metropolis Part 2: Scenes From A Memory” in its entirety.

Canada’s Retro-Sonic has expanded their effects palette with a flanger pedal based on the late seventies “18v Electric Mistress.” It uses the same BBD path as the original, though some upgrades make it more usable.

Rex Brown has teamed up with Reverb to sell off tons of music gear used throughout his career. A portion of the sale, which feature more than 70 pieces of gear, will benefit Reverb Gives.

Since their reunion and 2016’s “We Can Do Anything,” The Violent Femmes have been on a roll. Now they’re continuing that momentum with a new album called “Hotel Last Resort.” Bassist Brian Ritchie says it’s their best work in 25 years.

Spector has upgraded their Legend Standard series for 2019. The body shape stays the same, but it is now crafted from lightweight ash and topped with flame maple.

You Bred Raptors? is heading out for an extensive U.S. tour, and they'll be taking us along for the ride. Bassist Peat Rains will once again be providing updates and tour tips as they traverse the country.