Buzz
Wonder Women: Susan Hagen
We’re wrapping up our special two-part feature with two Wonder Women of the Bass, Jacqueline Pickett (last month’s feature) and now Susan Hagen. Susan discusses her backstory, her current projects, and her new book.
Primus: Xanadu (Live in St. Augustine)
Primus, as I’m sure you know, is currently on tour performing Rush’s “A Farewell to Kings” in its entirety. Here’s a glimpse into the tour, thanks to this fan-shot video of the band performing “Xanadu.”
Bill Crook Leaves Spiritbox
Spiritbox has announced the departure of bassist Bill Crook from the band. Crook had been with the band since 2018 and is featured on the 2021 release, “Eternal Blue”.
Keep It Groovy: Learn How To Play An Albert Collins Funky Blues
In this new “Keep It Groovy” lesson, Ryan Madora takes a look at a fast, funky blues with the Albert Collins tune, “Honey, Hush.” It’s a fun groove to add to your arsenal for any time you’re called upon to play a fast, funky blues.
Julian Vaughn: You’re Mine/Black Dynamite
Julian Vaughn released his new album “Solo” last month. If you are a fan of Wayman Tisdale, you will definitely dig Julian. Performing two cuts from his previous albums, Julian and his band are locked in on “You’re Mine” and “Black Dynamite”.
Danny Ziemann Offering Free “First Call Bassist Roadmap” Workshop June 4 & 5
Jazz bassist and educator Danny Ziemann has announced a free workshop series. The “First Call Bassist Roadmap” event takes place June 4th and 5th via Zoom and is designed for both electric and double bassists of all experience levels.
Tech 21 Introduces SansAmp Character Plus Series Pedals
Tech 21 has expanded its pedal lineup with the SansAmp Character Plus series, which includes four new units: the Screaming Blonde, the English Muffy, the Fuzzy Brit, and the Mop Top Liverpool.
James Taylor: Rainy Day Man (BBC In Concert, Nov 13, 1971)
Leland Sklar posted this video on Facebook saying, “Loved our early beginnings! Innocent music...” What a wonderful clip this is of Lee performing “Rainy Day Man” live in 1971 with James Taylor and Russ Kunkel.
Oz Noy Announces Summer Tour Dates with Dennis Chambers and Jimmy Haslip
Guitar guru Oz Noy has announced a summer tour, and it will be just as exciting for rhythm section players as guitarists. Noy will be joined by drummer Dennis Chambers and bassist Jimmy Haslip on the outing.
Bass of the Week: Zoot Bass Boudica “Wal-A-Like”
This week, we’re taking a look at a special Zoot Bass Boudica built for Mark Newman. The 32-inch scale custom shop bass is dubbed the “Wal-a-like” in part for its Veijo Rautia Multi-coil “Wal” pickups that pay homage to the legendary instruments.
Katravion Tray Williams: Old Ship Of Zion
Katravion Tray Williams shared this video on Facebook, and I was blown away. Katravion took a cover of “Old Ship Of Zion” by Josh Myles and made it his own. What’s super impressive is how he handled all the instruments and vocals.
Nate Marsh: The Influence of Jazz on R&B Electric Bassists of the 1960s and 1970s
Nate Marsh graduated from Berklee in 2012 and just finished his Masters of Music at the University of Colorado. He’s published his thesis, “The Influence of Jazz on R&B Electric Bassists of the 1960s and 1970s”, which is publicly available.