Articles by Kevin Johnson - Page 277

In 2017, Petros Klampanis began a series of solo bass videos called Rooftop Stories. As 2020 evolved into a year of isolation, the bassist found glimmers of light creating his fifth album of the same name, with him back to himself and his bass.

After nine years in the band, bassist Luke Appleton has left the ranks of Iced Earth. The news coincides with the departure of Stu Block, who resigned a month after bandleader Jon Schaffer was arrested for his role in the riot at the U.S. Capitol.

In 1972, rock pioneers Black Sabbath released their fourth album inside of two years, aptly entitled “Vol. 4”. The classic album is now the latest in their catalog to get a “Super Deluxe Edition” with a bevy of unreleased material.

Harley Benton has announced a new compact bass amp called the Block-300B. Weighing just 3.4 pounds, the amp boasts 300 watts of power at 4 ohms with a five-band EQ.

The Band’s third album, “Stage Fright”, has been revisited, remastered, and revamped for its 50th anniversary. Released in 1970, the record contained several songs that would become staples of the group’s live show.

2021 marks the 90th anniversary of Rickenbacker Guitars, who have just revealed limited edition guitar and bass models to mark the occasion. While details are still slim, the bass model is called the 4005XC and has some serious retro appeal.

William Parker has been a mainstay of the jazz and avant-garde world for decades. If you’re not familiar with him, now is a great time to jump in. He’s just released a new 10-disc set, and a fantastic new biography is out too.

This week we’re checking out the Bubblegum 6 made by Ortiz Murcio Guitars & Basses in Mexico City. The multi-scale six-string is at once raw and refined in its design, which the builder created to get the most bang for your buck.

Whitesnake and Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist Joel Hoekstra has released his second album with his solo project, Joel Hoekstra’s 13. “Running Games” features another all-star cast, including Tony Franklin.

Sandberg Guitars is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year with a limited edition version of the California Supreme. The bass is described as the “boutique bass flagship of Braunschweig’s creative forge.”

R+R=NOW has followed up their 2018 debut, “Collagically Speaking”, with a new live album that captures the group’s wealth of talent during a show at The Blue Note that same year.

Anthony Wellington is offering another astounding educational opportunity this month you won’t want to miss. “Noteworthy” is a virtual clinic that will teach you all the notes of the bass with multiple, structured ways of practicing and studying.