Articles by Kevin Johnson - Page 314

Janek Gwizdala has just released a new instructional book. “Bass Player’s Guide to Pentatonics” focuses on the many uses of the pentatonic scale and comes with a complete video masterclass and forty play-along tracks to help you hone your chops.

Alberto Rinaldis shared his recently finished EVO-FX4 bass with us, which seems like part sports car with its sleek lines and attractive yellow finish. The Luxembourg-based luthier made sure it plays as well as it looks.

After being forced to postpone their spring tour, the New Power Generation has announced a U.S. tour for the fall. The band, which formerly backed Prince, recognized that it’s a “crazy time” to be announcing it, but that they’re committed and hopeful.

Peter Hook is remembering Joy Division singer Ian Curtis on the 40th anniversary of his passing with a special stream of the concert film “So This Is Permanent” on May 18th. The three-hour movie features Hook and his band The Light performing the entire Joy Division catalog.

David Gross has returned with a new book called “The Three Tonic System”. The method book, which is applicable to any bass clef instrument, examines chord changes typically referred to as “Coltrane Changes”.

Schecter Guitar Research is reintroducing its Ultra Bass series this year that will include a four-string and a five-string model. The 2020 version will feature the company’s original Ultra body shape fitted with EMG TBHZ pickups.

While the current quarantine has forced nearly every event to end, Victor Wooten and his crew have decided to take his camps at Wooten Woods online. Three of the previously announced camps will still take place via Zoom.

ESP has updated its LTD D series of basses for 2020 with a new wood configuration. Most notable is their new burled poplar top that comes in a Black Natural Burst Satin finish.

Author and Gibson bass fanatic Rob van den Broek has just released the second edition of the “Gibson Bass Book”. The 204-page book builds on the initial release with over eighty-five basses featured with unique photos and descriptions.

Victor Wooten and Steve Bailey are back with another amazing opportunity for bassists. They’ll be hosting a free webinar tomorrow entitled “Woodshed: Viral/Veterans of the Electric Bass”. The event will also include Rhonda Smith, Henrik Linder, Joe Dart, and Darryl Jones.

Lettuce has just released “Resonate”, which follows up on last year’s “Elevate”. Both albums were born out of the same fruitful recording sessions, though bassist Erick “Jesus” Coomes says they have different vibes.

Sire is launching several new models for June including the new P10, which they describe as the higher version of their P7 model. “Just like the V10, the P10 has a roasted flame maple neck, giving you a high-end feel and sound,” the company says.