News - Page 166

Bass phenom Thundercat has returned with his fourth studio album, entitled “It Is What It Is.” The release is a reflection on existence filled out by his unreal bass playing and sense of humor.

Alex Dixon and his band Vintage Dixon have just released their new album, “The Real McCoy.” The grandson of Willie Dixon, Alex called on a host of musicians to create an authentic Chicago blues album.

Rose Tattoo has released “Outlaws,” which features the band revisiting the songs of their debut album plus some new material. The band’s current lineup includes bassist Mark Evans, who is also a former member of AC/DC.

Attention Rush fans: The band’s seventh studio album, “Permanent Waves,” will be getting a 40th-anniversary release in four configurations.

Pearl Jam has returned with their eleventh studio album, entitled “Gigaton,” which also marks their first new album in seven years.

In an incredible act of unity, David Ellefson has announced he’s donating his time to give free music lessons to students displaced from their school activities by COVID 19 restrictions.

Wolfgang Muthspiel has released “Angular Blues,” which marks his fourth album on ECM. The record is a return to the trio format, which the guitarist fills out with longtime drummer Brian Blade and bassist Scott Colley.

As the world deals with the massive impact of COVID-19, we’ve been extremely worried about the impact it is having on the bass playing community. We came up with an idea we hope will help.

Former Dillinger Escape Plan bassist Liam Wilson’s band Azusa has announced they’ll be following up their debut, “Heavy Yoke,” with a new album called “Loop of Yesterdays.” Here’s a preview, with the track “Kill/Destroy.”

Hunstmen have released a new album called “Mandala of Fear,” which is described as “storytelling through metal dynamically melded with elements of folk and country.” The Chicago-based quintet features the bass work of bassist Marc Stranger-Najjar.

In a spot of good news, the latest piece of U.S. legislation surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic includes language to provide financial relief to music workers.

If you’re looking for some inspiring bass material to watch during your quarantine, director Reto Caduff has you covered. His 2009 documentary, “Charlie Haden: Rambling Boy,” is available for free streaming via Vimeo until April 5th.