Buzz
Charles Berthoud: Reflections
Charles Berthoud is getting a lot of attention on his new video. After watching it, we can see why. Here’s “Reflections” – a composition Charles wrote for solo piccolo bass.
Richard Bona Releases Afro-Cuban Album
Renowned bassist/vocalist/composer Richard Bona, originally from Cameroon and known to some fans as “The African Sting,” has released an album with his Afro-Cuban project Mandekan Cubano. The album, Heritage, is his first studio release since 2013’s Bonafied. Heritage explores the music, dance, rituals, and oral history of Cuba, and the established themes in Bona’s art – using music to address...
Elrick Introduces Satin Matte Black for Expat e-volution Basses
Elrick Bass Guitars has expanded their Expat Series with satin black matte finishes. The sleek, blacked-out aesthetic will be available on their e-volution four and five-string basses. Made in the Czech Republic, the handmade basses are inspected and setup by Elrick. They feature select swamp ash bodies, three-piece maple necks, and wenge fretboards. Electronics include U.S. Bartolini pickups and electronics,...
Jesús Rico Pérez: Looking Back
It’s always exciting to see a new Jesús Rico Pérez video hit the feed. Here’s Jesús’ latest – a tune he calls “Looking Back”, which showcases his great composition skills and remarkable tone once again.
Ron Carter Releases New Record With Houston Person
Legendary bassist Ron Carter and saxophonist Houston Person have collaborated for more than 25 years, and their latest release aptly describes their musical relationship: Chemistry. Carter is known for his prolific recording — he’s appeared on more than 1,100 jazz sessions – his time in the Miles Davis Quintet, and his compositions, as well as for his extensive work with...
Bass Gear Roundup: The Top Gear Stories in June 2016
It’s the beginning of the month, which means it is time for us to look back at the popular gear stories we ran last month. Here are the top 10 No Treble reader favorite stories from June, 2016. Thanks for reading, commenting and sharing. And sorry for the GAS. 1. Fender Limited Edition American Standard “PJ” Bass Fender’s Magnificent Seven...
Cigir Kazimoglu: U Can’t Hold No Groove
Cigir Kazimoglu sent us this video of him performing Victor Wooten’s most excellent tune, “U Can’t Hold No Groove.” The video even caught the eye of Vic on Facebook, who said “Very nice! I like it!” That should say it all.
Budgie Three-Album Set Released
Welsh hard rockers Budgie were often thought of as something of a cross between Rush and Black Sabbath. However, the trio, led by bassist/vocalist Burke Shelley, never hit it as big. But, in later years, bands Metallica, Iron Maiden and Megadeth cited the group as an influence. For fans, or people who haven’t yet encountered the group, particularly in its...
Boss Introduces Free Mobile Tuner App
Boss has expanded their tuner line into the digital realm with a new mobile tuner app. Available as a free download for iOS and Android, the app takes on the familiar look of the company’s TU-3 pedal tuner and features a 21-segment meter and note display. Arrow indicators show when a note is in tune, flat, or sharp. The app...
In Memoriam: Rob Wasserman
Bassist Rob Wasserman, who played alongside some of the world’s greatest musicians, has passed away from an undisclosed illness. He was 64 years old. Wasserman began as a violinist, switching to bass as a teenager. He studied bass at the San Francisco Conservatory as well as composition with John Adams. His early career included stints with Van Morrison, Oingo Boingo...
Diego Tarantino: Better Days Ahead
Diego Tarantino shared this video with us, where he took the Pat Metheny tune “Better Days Ahead” and turned it into a lead bass arrangement. A few things struck me about this performance: Diego’s smooth playing, how much fun he is having, and how one of the greatest albums is on display behind him.
Aubrey Harris Releases Debut Mini-EP
Longtime No Treble readers will probably recognize the name of Aubrey Harris. When we first shared one of her videos, she was just 13 years old and went by the name BassGirl5809. She was inspired to pick up the instrument after watching Tal Wilkenfeld play. Now she’s studying at the Berklee College of Music and has released her debut self-titled...