Bass of the Week: Godin A4
This week we’re checking out the Godin A4. Available in fretted and fretless versions, the semi-acoustic bass is fitted with a low profile Lace Sensor with side-mounted controls as well as custom Godin Saddle transducers with their own custom preamp. The extensive tonal options can be output via 1/4″ and 13-pin connectors, allowing for computer and synth access. The A4...
In Memoriam: Wilton Felder
His main instrument may have been saxophone, but Wilton Felder’s early work as a bass guitarist launched him into the history books of the low end. The musician, who played the bass line for the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back”, passed away on September 27th at the age of 75. Longtime collaborator Ray Parker, Jr. broke the news on...
Ampeg Introduces All-Tube Portaflex Bass Amps, 1×12 Cabinet
In 2011, Ampeg launched the Portaflex Amp Series featuring solid-state preamps inspired by their iconic B-15 amp. Now the company has expanded the line with the PF-20T and PF-50T, a pair of all-tube bass amps they describe as “modern interpretations of Ampeg’s legendary low-wattage, all-tube designs.” Rated at 20 and 50 watts respectively, the PF-20T and PF-50T both feature a...
Jeff Genzler Launches New Company, New Bass Cabinets
Jeff Genzler, founder and former head of Genz-Benz, has launched a new company called Genzler Amplification. The bass industry veteran first offerings from the venture include a trio of bass cabinets: The Bass Array 12-3, the Magellan 112T, and the Magellan 212T. “My wife Catherine and I, and our dedicated team, built [Genz-Benz] and delivered exceptional products and support, worked...
Willcox Introduces Saber SL HexFX Edition Basses
Willcox is now shipping a new version of their Saber SL bass called the HexFX Edition. The new model has a 13-pin DIN connector that allows for individual string outputs in addition to the Lightwave Optical Pickup System. “The HexFX Editions bring the individual string outputs, along with a summed mono output, to a 13-pin DIN connector,” Willcox writes. “The...
Divinity Roxx and Steve Lawson: Masterclass Improv Jam
Here’s one to get you jamming. Divinity Roxx and Steve Lawson teamed up to teach a masterclass at Kidderminster College in the UK, resulting in some funky jams. The clip starts with Divinity beatboxing with a foundational bass groove and Lawson adding his signature thoughtful accompaniment and soloing. The duo connects on a deep level, allowing Roxx to freestyle rap...
I Worship Chaos: An Interview with Henkka Blacksmith
This year has been one of change for Finnish death metal outfit Children of Bodom. The band announced the departure of longtime guitarist Roope Latvala in May, leaving the group as a four-piece configuration. Their new album (due October 2nd) will be their first record created as a quartet, but their sound is just as huge thanks in part to...
JHS Pedals Introduces the Muffuletta Fuzz Pedal
JHS Pedals has announced the Muffuletta, a fuzz pedal that replicates five classic Big Muff circuits plus an original version without any digital signal processing or emulation. The pedal has four controls: Volume, Sustain, Tone, and Mode. The “JHS” mode is the company’s original take on the circuit and is described as more powerul, less compressed, and the best suited...
Video Premiere: Abnormal Thought Patterns, featuring Michael Manring and John Onder: Synesthesia
Abnormal Thought Patterns recently released Altered States of Consciousness, a 7-track collection of instrumental prog-metal that will blow your hair back. The group, anchored by bassist Troy Tipton, also employed a host of guest artists to bolster the release. Today we’re premiering the video for “Synesthesia,” featuring bass wizards Michael Manring and John Onder. Tipton, Manring, and Onder team up...
Kala Announces Bubinga U-Bass
Kala is celebrating the fifth anniversary of their U-Bass introduction by expanding the range with a bubinga model. Featuring a 21-inch scale, the Bubinga U-Bass is built using the distinctive wood for its top, back and sides while being rounded out with a mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard. Other features include a rosewood bridge, exclusive Hipshot licensed black anodized tuners,...
Steve Di Giorgio: Bass Playthrough of Christos Nikolaou’s “Calling”
Steve DiGiorgio may be known for playing fretless in death metal bands, but he’s a very diverse musician. Check out this clip of the bassist tracking the song “Calling” by Mythodea in the studio. DiGiorgio lays down punchy, melodic bass lines with on a Rickenbacker to give the song some extra drive. The track is available for download from the...
Bass of the Week: Ray Ross Bass No. 20
This week we’re featuring the work of Aaron “Ray” Ross, a Missouri-based builder who began making basses to supplement his own collection. “I make basses by hand in a VERY modest shop,” Ross explains. “This started when I wanted a fretless bass but could not afford one.” Ross builds each bass by hand with an assortment of materials. His five-string...