Articles by Kevin Johnson - Page 93

Pianist and composer Geoffrey Keezer has released “Live at Birdland,” which marks his first live trio album in 15 years. The performances were captured during a three-night run at the legendary New York jazz club. Keezer was joined by drummer Clarence Penn and bassist John Patitucci.

King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard have released their 26th album, “Flight b741,” which they call a “back to basics” rock album. The group is known for their boundaryless experimentation and complex arrangements, but they stripped it all back for a bluesier sound.

Sterling by Music Man has launched two new instruments in their Intro Series, including one bass: the Intro Series StingRay. The new series aims to bring the classic bass design to a highly accessible price.

The Mingus Big Band has been keeping bassist/composer Charles Mingus’ legacy going ever since his passing. The group celebrated what would have been his 100th birthday in 2022 with an album called “The Charles Mingus Centennial Sessions Vol. 1,” and now the second edition is available.

EBG Instruments is already preparing for the Guitar Summit and the NAMM Show by assembling an arsenal of instruments. That includes this four-string EBG-4 Jigsaw in a Cerulean Blue Metallic finish, which is their signature body shape.

It’s a big year for Tony Levin. He’s gearing up for the highly anticipated BEAT tour, but he’s also just announced that he’s releasing a solo album next month, too. “Bringing It Down to the Bass” marks the bass icon’s seventh solo album and his first since 2007.

Divinity Roxx has returned with a new album the whole family can love. “World Wide Playdate” is her second album geared toward kids, following up on 2021’s “Ready Set Go!”

Fender has unveiled a new line of pickups called the Cobalt Chrome Bass Pickup sets. Designed by tone expert Tim Shaw, the sets feature a proprietary blend of FeCrCo magnets for a rich tone.

This year marks the centennial of James Baldwin, whose writing and activism influenced generations to come. One artist that has been deeply affected by his work is bassist, singer, and composer Meshell Ndegeocello. The musician has celebrated his life and legacy with her new album, “No More Water: The Gospel of James Baldwin.”

Esperanza Spalding first heard of Brazilian singer-songwriter Milton Nascimento while she was a student at Berklee College of Music. Now the duo has collaborated on new album, “Milton + esperanza.”

ISP Technologies has introduced two new noise reduction pedals, the Decimator X and the Decimator X G-String. Each is designed with “fast response times, versatile routing options, and durable construction.” They build upon the company’s previous Decimator series by utilizing new circuitry.

Phil Jones Bass has added to their best-selling Double Four combo amp with the Double Four Plus. Aka the BG-80, the 90-watt single-channel bass combo amp features two four-inch speakers and a three-band EQ.