Aria Guitars Announces the Jet-B Bass
Aria Guitars has unveiled their new products for 2021 including the Jet-B model. Taking cues from its guitar counterpart, the new bass has a singlecut offset body and a 32-inch scale for easier playability.
Black Sabbath To Issue “Heaven and Hell” and “Mob Rules” Deluxe Sets
Two of Black Sabbath’s first albums with vocalist Ronnie James Dio are getting deluxe reissues this year. “Heaven and Hell” and “Mob Rules” will be released as expanded sets, including bonus tracks of never-released live material.
Charvel Unveils New Pro-Mod San Dimas Basses
After debuting some bass models from their custom shop at last year’s NAMM, Charvel has unveiled two new retrofied production basses with a Pro-Mod San Dimas Bass PJIV and the Pro-Mod San Dimas Bass JJV.
Geddy Lee To Join Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s Gala Concert
Geddy Lee will be partaking in the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s Gala Concert on February 18th, along with a load of other guests. “The Show Must Go On: Stories of Resilience” is described as “no ordinary Virtual Gala Concert”.
In Memoriam: Tim Bogert
Tim Bogert, whose playing in Vanilla Fudge influenced a generation of bassists, has died at the age of 76. An official statement has not been released, but Bogert was reportedly battling cancer.
Fender Celebrates 75 Years with Anniversary Basses
This year marks the 75th anniversary of Fender, and the company is celebrating with a special series of instruments to commemorate the occasion. The lineup includes Jazz Bass and Precision Bass models.
8-Bit Big Band Returns with “Backwards Compatible”
The 8-Bit Big Band has released their third album, “Backwards Compatible”, which continues the group’s approach of reimagining video game music for jazz orchestra.
Marko Hietala Leaves Nightwish
After 20 years in the band, Marko Hietala has left the ranks of Nightwish. The bassist and co-vocalist, who joined the symphonic metal outfit in 2001, made a statement through the group’s social media.
Jane Ira Bloom and Mark Helias Release “Some Kind of Tomorrow”
The pandemic has been hard on music all around. Jane Ira Bloom and Mark Helias played together for years but suddenly could not create together. But, they had resolve to continue their craft. The result is a new album called “Some Kind of Tomorrow.”
Bass of the Week: Musicvox Space Cadet Custom 12-String Bass
This week we’re taking a look at a new limited edition 12-string bass built by Musicvox called the Space Cadet. This version features a 3-tone sunburst over a flame maple top for a dynamite combo.
ISB Presents Center Stage with Dave Holland and David Gage
The International Society of Bassists has announced a special edition of their ISB Center Stage series of online interviews. On January 16th, jazz bass legend Dave Holland will be speaking with luthier and inventor David Gage.
Anthony Wellington Announces “Fast Ears” Virtual Clinic
Renowned bass educator Anthony Wellington will be holding a special virtual clinic on Monday, January 11th. Entitled “The Best Ears Are Fast Ears,” the session will leave you with improved aural recognition and response time.