News - Page 97

Neil Swainson has returned with a new quintet album called “Fire In The West,” which marks his first album as a leader since 1987. The bassist created a great band for the 10-song collection and says the chemistry was evident.

After 32 years, Bass Player Magazine has announced the end of its print edition. The end of an era comes not as a result of readership or quality but the rising costs around the world.

Soften the Glare has just released their second EP, appropriately called “Soften the Glare II.” The three-song collection sees the trio, anchored by Mudvayne’s Ryan Martinie, brought on Jamie King to produce the effort.

Janek Gwizdala has released another instructional book for bassists, this time focusing on altered harmony. “Bass Player’s Guide to Altered Chords & Scales” is, in fact, more than a book. It includes 60 backing tracks and 100 videos.

Jeff Beck has unveiled a United States tour this fall in support of his new album, “18,” which is a collaboration with Johnny Depp. Along for the ride will be bassist Rhonda Smith, who has been in Beck’s group for over a decade.

Bassist Blu DeTiger has announced the Blu DeTour, a 23-date run that will see her headlining at clubs from Boston to San Francisco. That includes one Canadian date in Toronto.

Much like the rest of the music world, The Interrupters set up their own studio during the last few years, allowing them to write and record in a more organic way. The ska group’s new record, “In The Wild,” reflects that spirit.

Soulfly has returned with “Totem,” their 12th album and the second to feature bassist Mike Leon, who joins the father-son duo of Max and Zyon Cavalera.

Viking metal masters Amon Amarth have returned with their 12th studio album, “The Great Heathen Army.” The band says it’s a return to their death metal roots and heavier than 2019’s “Berserker.”

In 2014, the world lost a musical giant with the passing of Jack Bruce. Jeff Berlin began working on a tribute album shortly after his passing, and now that album is available as “Jack Songs,” with an unreal cast of musicians.

Jazz Is Dead announced a new set of tour dates that will begin a celebration of the Grateful Dead tribute act’s 25th anniversary. The current lineup of the band includes Steve Kimock, Bobby Lee Rodgers, Pete Lavezzoli, and Alphonso Johnson.

The third part of the Tedeschi Trucks Band’s four-part epic “I Am The Moon” is out. “Episode III: The Fall” continues the series, and Brandon Boone again lays down a tasteful foundation for the 12-piece band.