Buzz

What’s better than one bass jazz? Check out this video recommendation we received, featuring a performance of “Snapshot” by Barry Sahagian on bass, Aram Bedrosian on bass, and Micah Carbonneau on drums. This recording took place at the “Barry Sahagian Concert with 2 Basses” on March 22nd, 2009 at the Catamount Arts Center in Vermont.

When Chilean bassist Luis Cheul needed a practice bass for his travels, Windmill designed created the Biajero bass for him. The concept for the bass was based on Cheul’s 6-string bass, and they will soon be offering a 7-string version as well. Specs: Body: Walnut Finish: High gloss or matte Neck: 5 piece Walnut/maple Fingerboard: 15 frets, Maple, rosewood, or...

Chris Feinstein, who found success as the bassist for Ryan Adams and the Cardinals, has passed away at the age of 42. The cause of death is still unknown, but it was reported that he was found in his Manhattan apartment on Monday morning. His label, Lost Highway Records, issued this statement: “It is with great sadness to report that...

An Interview with Stanley Clarke

When bassists list people who constitute legends, there is one name that is continually mentioned: Stanley Clarke. There are very few bassists who have been as innovative, who have crossed styles and musical barriers, and who have changed the way we approach the bass in the way that Stanley has over his still-flourishing career. Was this an intentional guided evolution?...

Here’s a nice video of Miroslav Vitous performing a solo piece, “My Foolish Heart”, in Vienna in 2005.

Fred Turner, a former member of Bachman-Turner Overdrive, has come out of retirement to reunite with guitarist Randy Bachman for an album and 2010 tour. In their former band, they sold millions of albums in the 1970’s, with hits such as “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet,” and “Takin’ Care of Business.” Turner has found a breath of fresh air in...

Q: My question is pretty simple but complex at the same. What is the best or most efficient way to practice reading rhythms? A: Great question! As with many aspects of the learning process, there is no one way (or quick way) but having the proper perspective can make a world of difference. As when you read words in your...

Bassist Gustaf Fjelstrom sent in this video of him performing “Vaporous Restraint”, from his album, METAMESMERIC (previously covered here). This video was recorded live at the Y2K9 International Looping Festival on October 18, 2009. For more on Gustaf and his work, visit botched.com.

Reader Spotlight: Cricket Cohen

Meet Cricket Cohen, our player in the spotlight for December 15, 2009. Bio: I’ve been so lucky to play bass (and sing) for a living for over 30 years. Doing the math I know I’ve played at least 10,000 gigs! The venues range from lounge cover work to playing with the Drifters as well of too many exciting stories to...

Presumably we are all searching for mastery on our instrument, and yet some people spend years playing and studying the Upright Bass and achieve very little, whereas others spend a quarter of the time and achieve a great deal. In keeping with my “getting started” theme of late, and to ensure that we fall into the latter group, it would...

Today’s video comes by way of Philip Wain, and features bassist Frans Vollink, drummer Sebastiaan Cornelissen and guitarist Mike Outram. Great stuff.

Sonic Youth, featuring Kim Gordon, will be keeping busy in 2010 with plans for a new album, a DVD release, and creating the soundtrack to a new film by Michel Gondry. But first, they will be touring the southwest U.S. in support of their latest effort, The Eternal Here are the upcoming dates: January 4 Tucson, AZ – Rialto Theater...