Articles by Kevin Johnson - Page 357

This week we’re checking out a Mod Shop Edition bass from K. Butler Guitars. The eye-catching bass has a basswood body finished in Sea Blu with a striking tiger stripe pickguard. Butler says the bass has a great sound, too.

The Black Star Riders have returned with their fourth studio album, entitled “Another State of Grace.” The band, which began as a spin-off from Thin Lizzy’s touring band, once again sees former RATT bassist Robbie Crane holding down the low end.

BITE Guitars is a new startup manufacturing company based in Austria that focuses on building individualized basses with what they call “guitar building 4.0.”

Mabuta is a group that mixes jazz with elements of electronica and afro-pop for a fresh sound. Led by bassist Shane Cooper, the band recently hit the studio to make a video for a track from their debut album. Cooper’s tone is on point!

Bob Dylan is into the 30th year of his “Never Ending Tour,” and he’s just added more North American dates to the affair. 2019 also marks three decades that Dylan has been joined by bassist Tony Garnier, who is his longest-running sideman.

Cort has introduced the Action HH4, a bass that features a two-humbucker pickup configuration. Complete with switchable active 2-band and passive operation, the bass offers a variety of tones.

R.E.M. has released a previously unheard song to support relief efforts in the Bahamas. “Fascinating” was recorded in 2004 at Nassau’s Compass Point Studios and was originally scheduled to appear on 2001’s “Reveal” before it was cut at the last minute.

Hot on the heels of their C4 Synth pedal, Source Audio has introduced the Spectrum Intelligent Filter, which they call an “all-in-one filter extravaganza.”

The 11th Annual Rocky Mountain Bass Slam has announced a new lineup for their headliners. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Chuck Rainey will not be able to attend. However, the slot has been filled by groove guru Cody Wright.

Metallica teamed up with the San Francisco Symphony recently to tackle the metal juggernaut’s hits. One of the most jaw-dropping performances included symphony bassist Scott Pingel on an EUB, with an open improv that turned into “Anesthesia (Pulling Teeth).”

Germany’s Duesenberg Guitars has unveiled a new bass model called the Triton. Its name reflects its three-pickup configuration.

It’s been 50 years since the Allman Brothers Band was formed, and the celebration is continuing with the release of their explosive live performance at the Fillmore West in 1971. Bassist Berry Oakley was in top shape with the band and even took to singing “Hoochie Coochie Man.”