Buzz
Russell Hall Releases “Black Caesar”
Bassist Russell Hall has released “Black Caesar,” a new album of music that spans hundreds of years while using jazz as its foundation. Though the music is so diverse, it all was created as a response to the tragedies of the last three years.
Steven McDonald: Five Bass Lines You Should Know
As the bassist for Melvins and Red Kross, you know Steven McDonald’s musical knowledge is as broad as it is deep. We picked McDonald’s brain about the essential bass lines that everyone should know.
Video Exclusive: Kira Roessler Live at the Sardine
We’re excited to share this new video of Kira Roessler performing at the Sardine in San Pedro, California. The former Black Flag bassist played a set of originals and covers with drummer Dave Bach and her brother Paul Roessler on keys.
George Speed Releases “Bass Favorites and Transcriptions from the 18th Century”
If you’re looking to explore early works for the double bass, you’ll want to check out George Speed’s new album. “Bass Favorites and Transcriptions from the 18th Century” features his exquisite playing accompanied by pianist Heidi Louise Williams.
Ibanez Introduces First Fretless EHB Model, the EHB1005F
Ibanez has added a new model to their headless EHB basses with the EHB1005F, a five-string that marks the first fretless bass of the series.
Jukka Haavisto: Four Days After
Jukka Haavisto sent us this video from a live performance at Eclipse Jazz Club in Finland. In this clip, the band performs the opening track from Haavisto’s latest album, “Reflections.”
Stanley Clarke Announces World Tour Dates with New Band, 4Ever
Last year, bass icon Stanley Clarke unveiled his latest band, called 4Ever. Now the “School Days” virtuoso has shared a set of dates for 2023 that will take the fledgling group around the world.
From the Bottom: The Greatest Synthpop Bass Line Ever
In this first “From the Bottom” column of 2023, Paul Thompson revisits an iconic bass line that has haunted him since childhood. Diving into 1983’s “Too Shy” by Kajagoogoo and the amazing bass line that made Nick Beggs a giant among men!
Julia Hofer: Top 5 Tower of Power Bass Lines
Julia Hofer’s “Top 5 Bass Lines” series is a popular one here, and she has a new edition. Julia breaks down her favorite Tower of Power tunes (and the work of Rocco Prestia) in this video.
League of Women Bassplayers Inaugural Conference Set for January 12-15
The League of Women Bassplayers, aka LOW B, will be holding its inaugural conference from January 12th through the 15th. The four-day event will be held virtually on Zoom.
Bass of the Week: Otto Bass Design Otto 5
This week, we’re featuring a gorgeous bass built by Osman Alkan of Otto Bass Design. This Otto 5 caught my eye with its Pacific quilted maple and resin hybrid top, but there are plenty of amazing features beyond that.
Counterparts: Jacob’s Ladder
Three years ago, on January 7, Neil Peart passed away. Three Rush fans (Dave Demarco, Chris Mack, and Eric Prosser) got together and recorded this tribute to Peart with their performance of “Jacob’s Ladder.”