Articles by Kevin Johnson - Page 257

Jazz bassist and educator Orlando le Fleming has been releasing books on time and technique for the past few years. Now, he’s teaching how to expand on one of the most prevalent chord progressions in jazz: Rhythm Changes.

Ariane Cap’s and Wolf Wein’s new book “The Pattern System for the Bass Player” is now available. The 330-page book is packed with diagrams and exercises to teach fretboard proficiency as well as improvisation and mental practice.

Last year, the Foo Fighters were set to celebrate their 25th anniversary with a world tour. Obviously, that was canceled. Instead, they’re celebrating their 26th anniversary this year starting with a tour in July and August.

D’Addario has launched a new line of straps called the Eco-Comfort line, which features models made from sustainable materials. The company says that 90 percent of each strap is made from recycled materials.

The Omnific is a killer prog-metal band consisting of two bassists – Matthew Fackrell and Toby Peterson-Stewart – with drummer Jerome Lematua. Their latest song, “Wax & Wane”, distills their melodic yet aggressive sound.

Red Fang has released their fifth album, “Arrows”, which they recorded in their hometown of Portland, Oregon with Chris Funk. This marks the third release with Funk, and the result showcases the band doing what they do best plus exploring new sounds.

I’ve been lucky to see quite a few Skjold Design Basses in my day, but the Skjoldslayer model is one that always grabs my attention. That’s why when someone emailed us luthier Pete Skjold’s latest creation, I was hooked.

It’s been 25 years since Squarepusher, aka Tom Jenkinson, released his debut album, “Feed Me Weird Things”. Now the influential bassist and electronica producer has reissued the 14-track collection, which has been long out of print.

KLOS Guitars is launching the Apollo Series of electric instruments, including the Apollo Electric Bass. The bass, which comes in standard and Pro versions, features composite technology with a carbon fiber neck.

Like every other band, Kansas had its tour cut short in 2020. However, they were able to get a year of their Point of Know Return Anniversary shows in before the pandemic. Now they’re sharing a live album, “Point of Know Return Live & Beyond”.

Sandberg Guitars is celebrating its 35th anniversary with four limited-edition Racing Car Design basses. Each model features racing-inspired finishes that recall “legendary Hollywood movies and today’s race tracks.”

Guns N’ Roses are getting back in the saddle this summer. The band has announced dates for their rescheduled North American tour, which will include Wolfgang Van Halen’s solo project, Mammoth WVH.