The Bass Shed Podcast (The Bass Shed)

Gregg Cash is a Philadelphia born, Los Angeles based bass guitarist & Music Director best known as a current member of blues rock guitar player Jared James Nichols and the hard rock band Josh Todd and The Conflict alongside Buckcherry founder Josh Todd and Buckcherry guitarist Stevie D. The band’s debut album Year Of The Tiger was released September 2017. Cash is also known for his work as the former bassist in Dorothy (band) on Jay Z’s Roc Nation record label.

LA bassist Lyman Medeiros discusses his undergraduate schooling with classical bassist Hans Strum, his work with Jazz vocalist Steve Tyrell and his new original projects.

Barsh's work has received 3 GRAMMY Awards and 5 GRAMMY nominations, including the 2016 Award for Best Rap Album and nomination for Album of the Year for Kendrick Lamar's "To Pimp a Butterfly." He was the recipient of a 2015 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Award and a 2015 BMI London Pop Award, and a nominee for the Ashford and Simpson Songwriter Award at the 2014 Soul Train Awards.His compositions have topped the charts in a number of different genres, scoring pop #1's with both Aloe Blacc's "The Man" (#1 UK Singles, 4 Million worldwide sales) and Kendrick Lamar's "To Pimp A Butterfly" (#1 Billboard 200, US Platinum), urban hits with Logic's "Incredible True Story" (#1 Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Albums), Ty Dolla $ign's "Free TC" (#4 Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Albums) and Anderson Paak's "Malibu" (#5 Billboard R&B Albums), and #1 albums in the dance and jazz genres with Aubrey O'Day and Robin McKelle, respectively. He also co-wrote and produced the single "Dealbreaker" for Norah Jones' hip-hop project, White on Rice, and has helped develop the sounds of emerging talents Sonreal, Sid Sriram and Dylan Chambers.

Gary has performed and recorded at many prestigious recording studios, music festivals, concert halls and jazz clubs around the world for artists such as Quincy Jones, Matthew Morrison, The Manhattan Transfer, The New York Voices, John Hendricks, Monica Mancini, Bob Newhart, Joan Rivers, Don Rickles, Regis Philbin, Kathy Lee Gifford, Andre Watts, Jake Armerding, Liam Bailey, Peter Prince, Billy Martin, Fitz & The Tantrums, Stefon Harris, Jay Leach, The Sunshine Collective, The Percy Faith Orchestra, Western Standard Time Ska Big Band, Theodicy Jazz Collective, The Los Angeles Symphony, The Albany Symphony Orchestra, The Berkshire Symphony, various productions of musical theater and many more. Gary and I had a great talk about preparing for auditions, recordings, transcriptions and education.

Jayme David Silverstein is a multi-platinum selling record producer, songwriter, multi instrumentalist and touring bassist who has worked with a variety of artists (both on stage and in the studio). These artists include: Miguel, Alicia Keys, J Cole, Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, Nico & Vinz, Estelle, Kaskade, Cher Lloyd, Jay Sean, Swizz Beats and many others. Silverstein has written and produced on albums such as: Miguel's Grammy nominated Billboard top ten albums Wildheart and Kaleidoscope Dream, Kaskade's 2016 release Automatic and Richard Orlinski and Eva Simons' 2016 Billboard #1 single Heartbeat. Jayme and I had a very real conversion about what it was like being in music school, and gritty aspects of being a working musician.

The second part of my conversation with bassist, songwriter, producer Jayme David Silverstein. 

Daniel Seeff is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, song writer and the Program Director of the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. He also directs the Institute’s Los Angeles public school outreach programming, including Jazz in the Classroom and BeBop to Hip-Hop, and serves as an associate producer of the Institute’s annual International Jazz Competition. Dan also hosts a radio show in Los Angeles on Thursday nights on KJazz 88.1. Dan has worked with Jay-Z, Eminem, Aloe Blacc, The Game, Kendrick Lamar and MANY more.

Stu Hamm is an icon of the electric bass and has done great things to forward the electric bass as a solo instrument.Hamm's first solo album, Radio Free Albemuth, inspired by the Philip K. Dick novel of the same name, was released in 1988. On it, Hamm demonstrated his abilities on a number of original compositions spanning a variety of genres including fusion, country, and classical. On solo pieces like "Country Music (A night in Hell)," he demonstrates his slapping and two-handed tapping proficiency as well as the ability to make the bass imitate the sounds of a wide range of instruments; the piece has since become a popular live piece. On the same album, he performs an arrangement of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata.Early in his career, Hamm was associated with Philip Kubicki's Factor basses. Later, Fender musical instruments produced two signature model electric basses designed and endorsed by Hamm himself, the first artist model bass ever made by Fender: the "Urge Bass" and the "Urge II Bass".Hamm's slapping, popping and two-handed tapping techniques are demonstrated on his solo recordings as well as in his instructional videos Slap, Pop & Tap For The Bass and Deeper Inside the Bass. A popular part of his live performance often includes a two-handed tapping arrangement of Vince Guaraldi's "Linus and Lucy" (from the animated television special A Charlie Brown Christmas).In July 2011, Hamm accepted the position of Director of Bass Programs at Musician's Institute in Hollywood, CA. For the past two decades, Hamm has also toured as one of the world’s premier bass clinicians.

Freelance electric bassist Bryan Ladd discusses his time as a bass player in NYC and his relocation to Los Angeles.

Upright and electric bassists Sezin Ahmet Turkmenoglu talks about his upbringing in Turkey, Turkish music and instruments and his time in Los Angeles.

Ryan sits down and talks with pianist, composer Ruslan Sirota. Ruslan is a brilliant musician and has performed artists such as: Black Eyed Peas, Stanley Clarke, Chick Corea, George Duke, Marcus Miller, John Patitucci, Thundercat, Kamasi Washington, Victor Wooten and many others. The conversation takes interesting turns and explores ideas about the context of actions as it pertains to music and humanity.

Nick Mancini is a Los Angeles based Vibraphonist, Composer, Band Leader, Arranger and Educator. Nick has performed and recorded with such diverse luminaries as Arturo Sandoval, Peter Erskine, Poncho Sanchez, Solange, Kenny Werner, Amos Lee, and Jennifer Holliday; and with the greatest young and emerging stars such as Kamasi Washington, Miguel Atwood-Fergusson, and Ben Wendel.

Steve Jenkins is part of the new wave of modern electric bass players. In addition to his mind-blowing technical prowess, his musicianship has allowed him to fit into a diverse range of musical situations that have run the gamut from face-melting prog-metal to experimental microtonal jazz-funk to dubbed-out electronica bass lines to classic sounding r&b grooves--sometimes all within the framework of one song. As a sideman, he has toured, performed, or recorded with the likes of: Vernon Reid, Screaming Headless Torsos, David Fiuczynski, Stimpy Lockjaw, Alex Skolnick, Josh Smith, Thomas Pridgen, Victor Wooten, Javier Reyes, Keith Carlock, Cindy Blackman Santana, Gene Lake as well as many others.As a bandleader, he released the critically acclaimed "mad science" in late 2004.  And in May 2013, he released the long-awaited" Steve Jenkins And The Coaxial Flutter" which has been receiving high praise from press, fans, and even legendary musicians such as Dennis Chambers.

Steve Jenkins is part of the new wave of modern electric bass players. In addition to his mind-blowing technical prowess, his musicianship has allowed him to fit into a diverse range of musical situations that have run the gamut from face-melting prog-metal to experimental microtonal jazz-funk to dubbed-out electronica bass lines to classic sounding r&b grooves--sometimes all within the framework of one song.As a sideman, he has toured, performed, or recorded with the likes of: Vernon Reid, Screaming Headless Torsos, David Fiuczynski, Stimpy Lockjaw, Alex Skolnick, Josh Smith, Thomas Pridgen, Victor Wooten, Javier Reyes, Keith Carlock, Cindy Blackman Santana, Gene Lake as well as many others.As a bandleader, he released the critically acclaimed "mad science" in late 2004.  And in May 2013, he released the long-awaited"Steve Jenkins And The Coaxial Flutter" which has been receiving high praise from press, fans, and even legendary musicians such as Dennis Chambers.

John Storie is a Los Angeles-based guitarist, vocalist, bandleader, arranger, and composer. As a headliner for major international festivals and venues, he performs with the world-renown Mildred Snitzer Orchestra with actor/pianist Jeff Goldblum, and the award-winning New West Guitar Group. His current tours include Steve Tyrell, Sarah McKenzie, “Too Marvelous for Words: the Music of Nat King Cole”, and songwriter/vocalist phenom Spencer Day.

Guitarist Peled discusses his upbringing and education in Isreal, his time at The New School, Ethiopian music and his band The Ambessa Orchestra.

Ryan sits down with drummer Herman Matthews. Herman has had the great fortune of working with such artists as Kenny Loggins, Richard Marx, Tower Of Power, The Isley Bros., Kirk Whalum, George Duke, Bob James, Timothy B. Schmit, Tom Jones, Hugh Laurie, Patty Austin, Chris Botti, James Ingram, Boney James, Steven Stills, Edger Winter, Luther Vandross, Celine Dion, Patty Austin, James Ingram, Sheryl Crow, “Baby Face” Edmonds, Chaka Chan, Carol King, SHeDAISY, Barry Goldberg, Ronnie Millsap, Fee Waybill, Bill Champlain, Maxi Priest, Debbie Gibson, Diane Reeves, Kenny G., John Farnham, Nia, Snuffy Walden, Sarah Nimetz, Greg Adams & East Bay Soul, Dan Aykroid & Jim Belushi, Michael Bolton, Expose, Angie and Debbie Winans, Rebekah, Meredith Brooks, Kina, Tiffany, Eric Burdon, Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps… During the early 90’s he was a member of the house band “Into The Night Starring Rick Dees.”

Ryan talks with NY bassist Mark Wade. Voted one of the top bassists of 2016 and 2018 by the prestigious Downbeat Magazine Reader's Poll, Mark Wade has been an active bassist in the New York City area for over 20 years. His 2015 debut album Event Horizon and 2018 follow up Moving Day were released to international acclaim. 

Ryan talks with bassist, producer, writer Jonathan Herrera about Jonathan’s time writing for BASS PLAYER MAGAZINE, aspects of world music and life as a musician.Jonathan is a graduate of the University of Southern California and the Los Angeles Music Academy and the former Senior Editor of Bass Player Magazine. His playing credits include:Cathedrals, MoeTar, Zigaboo Modeliste, Stanley Jordan, Brain, Oz Noy, Garaj Mahal, Miguel Migs, Cyrus Chestnut, Cathy Richardson, Michael Lee Firkins, Jon Fishman, Kai Eckhardt, Matthew Charles Heulitt, Dynamic, Rick Musallum, Levy's Love Lounge, and many more. 

Part 2 of Ryan talking with bassist, producer, writer Jonathan Herrera about Jonathan’s time writing for BASS PLAYER MAGAZINE, aspects of world music and life as a musician.Jonathan is a graduate of the University of Southern California and the Los Angeles Music Academy and the former Senior Editor of Bass Player Magazine. His playing credits include:Cathedrals, MoeTar, Zigaboo Modeliste, Stanley Jordan, Brain, Oz Noy, Garaj Mahal, Miguel Migs, Cyrus Chestnut, Cathy Richardson, Michael Lee Firkins, Jon Fishman, Kai Eckhardt, Matthew Charles Heulitt, Dynamic, Rick Musallum, Levy's Love Lounge, and many more. 

Ryan sits down with Co-founder of Lakland basses, Dan Lakin. Dan talks about his personal history with music, the origins and his time at Lakland and his new company D.Lakin basses

Bassist/composer/producer Aidan Carroll is originally from Oklahoma and went on to study jazz in NYC with great musicians including bassist John Patitucci. Aidan discusses his time in NY, touring and the artistic journey in a universal and personal way.

Ray Riendeau is the owner of www.VintageBassVault.com an online vintage bass store. featuring vintage Basses, amps & collectibles. As a bassist, Ray is best known for his recording and touring with Rob Halford (Judas Priest), Star Monarchy, TWO, Gary Hoey, Greg Koch, Machines Of Loving Grace and most recently the bassist for James LaBrie, singer of the band Dream Theater. Ray is also a solo artist with 6 solo instrumental CDs, the most recent being RHYTHMUS, and has been a clinician for Fender Musical Instruments and most recently ZON Guitars.In recent years Ray has been concentrating on his endeavors as a session player working from his home studio in Arizona. He has played on many records, demo & preproduction tracks. Some of the artists include Shinedown, Jason Mraz, Theory Of A Deadman, Carrie Underwood, James LaBrie, Marco Sfogli, Jeff Kollman, Halford, Gary Hoey, Greg Koch, Matt Guillory, Machines Of Loving Grace, Dia Frampton (The Voice), Gavin DeGraw, David Cook (American Idol), Zac Maloy, 3 Doors Down, Jon McLaughlin, Forever The Sickest Kids, Cavo, Kenny Wayne Sheppard, Charlie Sexton, South Jorden, Adelitas Way, Joel Jorgenson, Whitney Duncan, Cady Groves, Skillet, Francesco Artusato and Ryan Tedder (One Republic).

Nicholas Recuber is the Assistant Principal Bassist in the Colorado Symphony Orchestra and an Artist-In-Residence in String Bass in the School of Music at the University of Northern Colorado.

Brent-Anthony Johnson is a bassist, educator and writer for several major bass publications including BASS MUSICIAN MAGAZINE. 

Gina Saputo is one of LA's most in demand Jazz singers. She studied Jazz on scholarship at the University of Southern California and graduate studies at the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute, now the Herbie Hancock Institute. Gina released her latest record, Duetto, on Swingfest Records. It debuted at #4 on the Itunes Jazz Charts. She is also featured on Jeff Goldblum's newest record.

Ryan talks with long time studio session bassist John Pierce. John has been a long time member of Huey Lewis and The News, and has recorded with a long list of artists including: Stevie Nicks, Ringo Star, Eddie Money, Jeff Golub, Dido, Steve Lukather, Donna Summer, Colbie Caillat, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, Tom Petty, Lindsey Buckingham, Mick Jagger and many many more….

Bassist for American Idol, Shakira, The Carson Daly Show, Liz Phair and more…. Ryan chats with Joe about his move to Los angeles and high profile gigs.

Valentina lives in London and she is teacher assistant in Leon’s Bosch class at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance and young artist of Talent Unlimited. She won a scholarship from associazione Animando in Lucca for a research project investigating the music of Giacomo Puccini’s ancestors and her work has been published for the Japanese Press Da Vinci. She will debut her first solo album, Music from the Sphinx, in November 2019 with a brand new repertoire, most of it developed in the Trinity Laban Junior Fellowship research year. Valentina's work is focused to expand the double bass solo repertoire composing new virtuoso pieces, transcribing mostly Frank Zappa’s Repertoire and playing new composition written for her from many contemporary composers. 

Jason Heath is the host of the podcast “Contrabass Conversations”. Jason also created The Double Bass Blog in addition be being an educator and performer. Ryan and Jason discuss having an online presence as a musician and staying engaged and inspired within personal practice time.

Stuart Clayton is a bassist and educator living in the UK. Stuart founded Bassline Publishing which releases bass method books and publications of bass transcriptions. Stuart and I talk about music education, online bass education and finding “your place” within the music industry.

Trevor Jones is the house bassist at The Marriott Theatre located outside of Chicago. In addition to playing over 30 productions at The Marriott Theatre, Trevor was a substitute for the Chicago production of Hamilton. Trevor’s group Molehill has toured the country and, over the past decade, has compiled a body of work that was featured in the Chicago Tribune and international press. Trevor is a partner of the double bass podcast Contrabass Conversations and Jason Heath’s Double Bass Blog. Trevor was the double bass and bass guitar instructor at Illinois Wesleyan University for 8 years (2012-2020). 

Ryan talks with long time friend Steve Millhouse about his move to NY, working on the Broadway scene and more…

Jim Kerwin has played with David Grisman for over 30 years and is featured on all of Grisman’s Jerry Garcia recordings, which boast a unique acoustic setting, encompassing a myriad of musical genres. 

A San Francisco State University graduate with a performance degree in solo double bass, he spent several years touring Europe with an avant-garde jazz trio led by vibist Larry Blackshere. He has performed with bluegrass greats Red Allen and Del McCoury and has played at Carnegie Hall with Stephane Grappelli and YoYo Ma. Kerwin is featured on numerous recordings – including six Grammy nominees – from big band and bluegrass to jazz and latin.

Singer/Songwriter & Bass player Silva Rose Novak discusses her discography and mental health

bassist for The Wild Feathers discusses new record

Singer/Songwriter & bassist Molly Parden discusses her latest EP "Rosemary" and discusses each tune and her writing process in detail

Selected by the American bass magazine “No treble” as one of the world top 10 bass players and recognised by the international critics for her great intensity and exceptional technique. Uxia discusses the positive impact teaching has on her and the humanity of artistry.

UK bassist  for television Show "Later with Jools Holland" discusses his time working with Jools, early inspirations and stories about connecting and performing with music icons. 

Los Angeles touring/session bassist talks about his latest album and his gigs with Gwen Stefani and Shania Twain.

Chris Wabich is a well-known, original voice on drumset, steel drum, and percussion. The variety of artists he works with reflects his versatility as both musician and producer. He is heard with Ludacris, Sting, Leonard Cohen, Stanley Jordan, Brian Johnson (AC/DC) Sheila E., Mark Murphy, the Zappa Family,

Solo artist and bassist for: Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Lupe Fiasco, Jhene Aiko, Tha Game, Kim Burrell, The Clarke Sisters, AI, EXILE the Second, Stevie Wonder and many others.

Taras has produced, performed and recorded with Richard Thompson, Lucinda Williams, Dwight Yoakam, Steve Earle, Elvis Costello, Buck Owens, Sara Evans, Spencer Davis, EmmyLou Harris.

Studio legend! Member of “The Swampers” David Hood was the house bassist at Fame Studio an Muscle Shoals Sound. He played on countless hits with famous artists and recordings and was a major part of shaping American music.

Interview with Chuck Kreinar. Chuck is the brother of Motown legend Bob Babbitt. Chuck discusses their family history, Bob's move to Detroit and early gigs, recording sessions and more about the family atmosphere that produced bass legend Bob Babbitt.

Part 2: Interview with Joe Kreinar. Joe is the son of Motown legend Bob Babbitt. Joe discusses how Bob got the last name “Babbitt”, Bob’s work in Detroit, NY and move to Nashville. Joe speaks of Bob’s upbringing, work ethic, character and how Bob felt during different stages of his career. 

Los Angeles studio and touring bassist talks about his work with Rod Stewart, Don Henley, playing on Alanis Morrissette’s iconic album “Jagged Little Pill” and about the aspects of his life that have influenced his musicianship.

Founder of Lakland and D.Lakin Basses, Dan Lakin talks about bass construction, amp construction and the history of the electric bass

Jazz Double Bassist and Vocalist Katie Thiroux discusses her beginnings in jazz, early training as a bassist and vocalist, keeping music fresh while touring and setting goals for her career.

Howard Ulyate, electric bass pickup builder, talks about his pick up designs, inspiration and pickup construction

Keith Stixx, owner of Tsunami Cables, discusses his history a musician, how he got into such a specific aspect of the music business and and the new Tsunami V-15 tube preamp

Bassist, Educator and Author Matt Heyman discusses his performance and education and his book “Revolutionizing the Jazz Bass: The Life and Music of Jimmie Blanton”

Bassist, Composer, Producer Anthony Crawford discusses his upbringing in Memphis, moving to Los Angles, and reinventing his career. Anthony talks about working with fusion artists such as; Allan Holdsworth & Virgil Donati as well as neo-soul artist Erykah Badu. In addition Crawford speaks about how his work in composing and producing for film.

Bassist & Composer David Schwartz has composed for television shows such as “Arrested Development”, “Veep”, “The Good Place” Northern Exposure” , “Deadwood” and more. David discusses his history as a bassist, current projects, how he got started writing for television and more.

Veteran of The NY Jazz scene, Todd Coolman has played with a long list of jazz legends including: Horace Silver, Stan Getz, Gerry Mulligan, Benny Golson, Ahmad Jamal, Art Farmer, Jay Jay Johnson, The Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, and numerous others. Coolman enjoyed a 25-year stint with the James Moody Quartet and continues to perform with Jon Faddis, Charles McPherson, Renee Rosnes, as well as leading his own small groups. Todd has published 2 books and released 4 albums as a leader.

Shaun Munday is a basssit, vocalist and solo artist who has shared the stage with Lalah Hathaway, Corinne Bailey Rae, Andra Day, Mary Wilson of The Supremes, blues legend Robert Cray, reggae royalty Aston Barrett and The Wailers (Bob Marley’s band), country music star Collin Raye, Devon Allman, Yonrico Scott of the Royal Southern Brotherhood and the band Kansas.

Bakithi Kumalo’s bass playing can be found in the heart and soul of the modern day anthems that have shaped our sense of music and culture as we know it. This album speaks not only to Kumalo's journey from South Africa to the United States, it's about everyone's journey with the intention to help people remember to live in the moment, and keep moving forward. Ranked among the top 50 bass players in the world by Bass Player Magazine, Kumalo has toured regularly with Paul Simon throughout his career and has recorded with and performed alongside many other artists such as Joan Baez, Cyndi Lauper, Hugh Masekela, Herbie Hancock, Tedeschi Trucks Band (to name a few).

Fred Thomas grew up in the US state of Georgia. He moved to New York City in 1965 and co-founded his own band with guitarist Hearlon "Cheese" Martin. He was the bassist as well as the lead vocalist of the group. 

In 1971 James Brown saw the band at Smalls Paradise club in Harlem. Brown was in search of new musicians for his own band. He did an impromptu performance with the band and decided to hire the whole group. Thomas said his band used to cover Brown's songs and that joining Brown was a smooth transition for them. He recorded on Brown's releases during 1970s. The first album titled Hot Pants was in 1971. He also recorded on releases by The J.B.'s. Many of these recordings were later sampled in hip hop music, such as "Pass the Peas", "Gimme Some More", and "Escape-ism".

Thomas performed with Brown for more than thirty years, longer than other bassists in that position. He recorded on several R&B number one hits such as "Hot Pants", "Make It Funky", and "Papa Don't Take No Mess".

Bassist for The Steels Wheels discusses his history as a bassist and relationship with The Steel Wheels. Derek also talks about some very real aspects of being a musician as well as the latest album by The Steel Wheels “Everyone A Song Vol. 2”

Songwriter, Bassist and Chief Recording Engineer Lawrence Ethan discusses his time working at the legendary EastWest Studios in Hollywood, California, his history as a songwriter and recording artist and his latest single “Heavy”.

Bassist for the Bluegrass group THE INFAMOUS STRING DUSTERS. Travis Book discusses the band’s new record “Toward The Fray” that is being released February 2022. Travis also discusses the history of the band, and some ideas on the artist’ role in society.

Guitarist & Educator Ian Robbins speaks about his Punk Band GET OUT(tm), a bit of Punk Music history, funny/chaotic stories of the DIY album release process.

Bassist and Vocalist Kristin Korb speaks in depth about her 2021 album releases “What If?” and “Why Not?”. In addition, Kristin talks about her time studying and recording with the legendary Ray Brown and more.

Bassist and Composer David Heyes studied Double Bass at Royal College of Music in London. and completed his post-graduate studies in Prague with Frantisek Posta (Principal Bass, Czech Philharmonic Orchestra). He has given masterclasses in 20 countries over the past few years and has been a juror at a number of international competitions

Veteran Jazz Bassist Eric Revis speaks about his latest recording “Slipknots Through A Looking Glass” and composing and recording process. Revis also speaks about artistic concepts that influence his bass playing, the nature of jazz vocabulary, his time working and recording with Brandford Marsalis and more..

Emerging from a background of classical chamber and orchestral music as well as different genres of jazz Joseph Warner commits himself exclusively to the exploration of the sound abilities of the double bass. His research in the field of extended techniques and harmonics has brought him a wide audience in the avantgarde environment. However, he never denies the traditional sound cosmos where he has come from. Being a descendant of both worlds he nowadays meanders in the no man’s land between avantgarde and improvisation.

Modern jazz composer and bassist Mark Wade’s critical success has led to him being named one of the top bassists of the year for five of the last six years in the Downbeat Magazine Reader’s Poll. He received international acclaim for his trio with the 2015 recording “Event Horizon” and the 2018 follow up “Moving Day”. Mark discusses his latest album release TRUE STORIES in detail and some of his thoughts and ideas about performing and leading a trio.

Jahmal Nichols, bassist, composer, arranger and producer was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. Jahmal is from a rare breed of bassists/musicians that is able to fluently go from electric bass to acoustic bass on any genre of music. His goal ultimately is to bring the world a new sound and voice on the bass and provide great musicianship to any artist that he works for as a sideman

Bassist Rufus Jackson talks about his years performing with Gospel artist Hezekiah Walker, his time recording and touring with Alicia Keys and lessons his learned along the way about adapting to different musical situations. 

Erick “Jesus” Coomes is the bassist, co-founder, and spiritual heartbeat of the band Lettuce. Born and raised in Southern California, \Coomes immersed himself in his native Los Angeles hip-hop scene, and began collaborating with a who’s who of contemporary pop, hip-hop and R&B. “Trouble” by West Coast legend DJ Quik was the first time Coomes heard himself on the radio, later appeared on Eminem’s “Crack a Bottle”, and soon was invited to sessions and brought on full time with the iconic Dr. Dre; Coomes appears on the Compton LP, among other Dr. Dre recordings. For Kanye West, in 2003 Coomes recorded bass (“We Don’t Care”) and both bass and guitar on the mega-hit “All Falls Down.” Coomes performed on Anthony Hamilton’s 2005 LP SoulLife, as well as recordings with DJ Quik, Quincy Jones, Ne-Yo, Shafiq Hussein, Britney Spears, Baby Bash, DJ Hi-Tek, Talib Kweli, Tyrese, The Game, Snoop Dogg, Freeway, Mack 10, Proof, O.C., Anthony Hamilton, Lil’ Kim, DJ Spinna, Truth Hurts, Ras Kass, J-Live, Chingy, Proof, Doe or Die, Myka Nine, among others.

Interview with bassist for G Love and Special Sauce, Jimi Jazz Prescott. Recorded live in the bass showroom at Lemur Music. Jimi Jazz discusses his history with G Love, touring, bass set-up, and his early jazz influences.

Electric bassist Damian Erskine speaks about his recordings as a solo artist, his process of practicing and personal style of learning. Damian also speaks of his time at Berklee School of Music and music that is dear to him although he is regularly recognized as a jazz player.

Electric and Double Bassist Sebastian Steinberg is a founding member of the band SOUL COUGHING. Soul Coughing had a couple hit songs in the 90’s with “Soundtrack to Mary" and "Super Bon Bon”. Steinberg had also worked with Eddie Vedder, Blake Mills and Vanessa Carlton. Sebastian played on the Fiona Apple album “The Idler’s Wheel” and “Fetch The Bolt Cutters” (which he also co-produced) and works with The Watkins Family Hour.Sebastian talks about co-producing the album with Fiona Apple, bass inspirations, early musical influences and changes in culture.

Double Bassist and Luthier Jason Brown discusses his time performing with Hank Williams III, his history as a luthier and work on double basses.

Electric and Double Bassist Lorin Cohen is an active member of the NY jazz scene. Lorin has performed with: Adam Rogers, Adam Cruz, Andy Bey, Antonio Hart, Bob Sheppard, Bucky Pizzarelli, Clarence Penn, David Binney, George Colligan, Houston Person, Joe LaBarbara, Joe Locke, Johnny Griffin, Jon Faddis, Monty Alexander, Ralph Bowen, Regina Carter, Ryan Cohan, Stefon Harris, Steve Turre, Steve Wilson and SO many other heavyweights.Lorin speaks about his bass bootcamp, his approach to jazz education, jazz theory and his album as a solo artist titled “HOME”.

Finay is a platform for musicians that focuses on compensating artists for their intellectual and creative property. Cofounders Abhi Manapragada and Jordan Hathaway give insight into block-chain technology and NFTs and how these technologies can benefit musicians and artists. 

Composer, touring and session bassist Lance Morrison has recorded/performed with Rod Stewart, Alanis Morissette, The New Radicals, Lee Ann Rhymes, Rick Springfield, Don Henley, Richard Marx, Volto, The Coors, Gavin DeGraw and more. Lance is a member of Mike Campbell’s band “Dirty Knobs”.  In this interview Lance talks about touring post pandemic, and touring with The Dirty Knobs, who his favorite bass player is and why.

Anthony Vitti is a Professor at the Berklee College of music and was a founding member in creating the courses for Electric Bass at the school. Anthony attended Berklee College of Music from 1982-1986. He graduated with honors and went on to work towards his Masters degree in jazz performance at the University of Lowell. Antony Vitti had the opportunity to work with a very wide variety of artists such as, Sammy Davis Jr., Liberace,Rita Moreno, Bobby Vinton, George Burns, Nell Carter, Robert Klein, Jerry Lewis, The Platters, The Drifters, The Temptations and many more. Performances include Gregg Bissonett, Steve Smith (Journey), Toy Caldwell, Felix Cavalier, Carmine Apece (Rod Stewart),Blues Saracen, Boston, John Scofield, Gary Nicholson and many others. Anthony started his own company “DaaDoo Music” so he could control the content of his books and publish materials that he actually use in classes and lessons at Berklee College of Music.

Matt Aronoff is an in demand NY  Jazz Double Bassist.  While studying with Jonathan Storck of the NJ Symphony and jazz bassist John Webber, he earned a scholarship to Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA. While in Pittsburgh, he studied with Pittsburgh Symphony double bassist Anthony Bianco and saxophonist Eric Kloss, both of whom became important mentors, musically and personally. After a brief stint in Spain (while under the tutelage of great Spanish bassist Francisco Fernandez), he returned to the states where he was awarded a scholarship to attend Manhattan School of Music. Upon graduation, he immediately hit the road with his former professor and Grammy-winning vocalist Luciana Souza, . To date, he has had the pleasure of playing, touring or recording with musicians including Fred Hersch, Kenny Werner, Peter Eldridge, New York Voices, Banda Magda, Sara Gazarek, Remy Le Beouf’s Assembly of Shadows, Duchess, Numinous Ensemble, Anat Cohen, Bob Lanzetti and Zack Brock (Snarky Puppy)

Jeff Bradetich is regarded as one of the leading performers and teachers of the double bass in the United States. He has won many major solo competitions, recorded six solo albums of music for double bass and piano and has been featured on radio and television throughout North and South America and Europe including CBS, CNN, BBC and NPR. 

He has taught on the faculties of the University of Michigan and Northwestern University prior to his 1994 appointment as director of the largest double bass program in the world at the University of North Texas College of Music. In addition to his performance and professional experience, Bradetich has also transcribed over 100 solo works. 

Jeff Bradetich was the Executive  Director of The International Association of Double Bassists from 1982 - 1990, is currently the President of the Bradetich Foundation and continues to give masterclasses and educate a new generation of Double Bassists.

Touring bassist and recording artist Eva Gardner. Eva has been an in-demand bassist for the past couple decades. 

In 2001 Eva was the original bassist for the band Mars Volta. She later went on to work with Tim Burgess, Veruca Salt and joined the band for the artist Pink in 2007. Eva has also released 2 EPs…. The 2019 release was titled “Chasing Ghosts” and the most recent release is titled “Dark Matter”. 

 Eva holds a degree in Ethnomusicology and comes from a musical family. Her father (Kim Gardner… whose birth name is Chris Garner) was a founding member of the English 1960s rock group “The Birds”… originally named  “The Thunderbirds”, after the moved to Los Angeles, he founded the legendary establishment “Cat & Fiddle”.

Ryan Gullen, bassist for The Sheepdogs.

The Sheepdogs are a Canadian rock band formed in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in 2004. The Sheepdogs were the first unsigned band to make the cover of Rolling Stone and have gone on to a career featuring multi-platinum album sales and four Juno Awards.

The band's guitar-driven blues-rock style has been described as  "pure, simple, good-time music" 

One critic has praised the band's "infectiously catchy, soulful, retro sound with beautiful harmonies and a pinch of southern rock."

The Sheepdogs are on the road frequently and have headlined tours across Canada and the United States, UK, Eastern and Western Europe, and Australia, and have performed at a number of large festivals including South by Southwest, Coachella, Glastonbury, Bonnaroo, and Lollapalooza.

 

Oskar Cartaya, during the course of a full career playing bass, composing, arranging and acting as musical director for an amazing array of artists, Oskar has soaked up the influences of his homes in Puerto Rico, New York and Los Angeles to create his very unique style.

A long prolific career working with the likes of Spyro Gyra, Herb Albert, Jennifer Lopez, Celia Cruz, Rubén Blades, Tito Puente, Robbie Robertson, Willie Colon, Dave Valentin and more has given a solid reputation in the music industry.

Some of Oskar’s credits include the production of “Passion Dance” by Herb Alpert (Almo Records) and “Plenarriqueña” for Jennifer Lopez, a live concert on DVD (Sony Music). Touring with a plethora of artists including Steve Winwood, Spyro Gyra and the late Tito Puente.

Add in to the mix a stint in the house band for TV’s “ShowTime at The Apollo”, The ESPY’S, Latin Grammy, Guys Choice Awards composing and arranging for projects such as Jodie Foster’s movie Contact, Producing the soundtrack for the movie “Wedding Bell Blues” and playing on Grammy® Winning albums for Arturo Sandoval, Willie Colon and Spyro Gyra.

Touring bassist Corey McCormick has had the honor of working with amazing artists, some of which he grew up a fan of, learning their music long before he had the opportunity to play with them. Some of those artists include Chris Cornell, Neil Young an Willie Nelson to name a few. His talent has also been called upon by international artists such as, Vasco Rossi and Koshi Inaba.

Marlon Martinez is a young virtuoso bassist and composer emerging at the center of the resurgent Los Angeles jazz scene. He has demonstrated his virtuosity while touring with a wide range of artists, from rock icon Stewart Copeland to classical trailblazers Quatuor Ebène. Marlon is the protégé of mentor Stanley Clarke and studied with legendary jazz bassist Ron Carter in New York City. He is the music director and composer of his big band, Marlonius Jazz Orchestra. Marlon is a winner of Colburn School’s 2020 New Venture Competition and was selected as an artist-in-residence for the inaugural Amplify Series at Colburn School in 2022.

In 2010 and again 2011, Marlon was selected to participate in the highly acclaimed Verbier Festival Orchestra in Switzerland. During his membership, he performed under the baton of Charles Dutoit, Valery Gergiev, Neeme Järvi, Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos and Yuri Temirkanov among others. He performed with international classical soloists such as Mischa Maisky, Leonidas Kavakos, Yuri Bashmet, Lisa Batiashvilli, Yuja Wang, and Deborah Voigt.

Marlon is currently the bassist for Stewart Copeland and Jon Kimura Parker’s epic collaboration Off The Score. Notable tour appearances include the 2015 21C Music Festival with Off The Score, the 2016 Gstaad Menuhin Festival and Academy with Quatuor Ebène and Stacey Kent, the premiere of his composition Jazz Impressions for String Orchestra, No. 1 at the 2016 Festival du Haut Limousin, and "Don't Box Me In: An Intimate Evening with Stewart Copeland" at Long Beach Opera in 2018. 

Nick Campbell plays the electric bass. He was born and raised in Los Angeles and like most members of the city’s bountiful music scene he spent the majority of his youth in the annals of music education. It was here that Campbell developed his unique penchant for superimposing triadic patterns over static harmony (commonly referred to as “getting modal”).

You may have seen him playing bass as a sideman with (but not limited to): Pomplamoose, Scary Pockets, Charlie Puth, Vulfpeck, Meghan Trainor, Raquel Rodriguez, Nigel Hall, Josh Smith, Kirk Fletcher, Lunchmoney Lewis, Michael Mayo and Moonchild and as a leader (or co-leader) with the bands: Shrek Is Love and Bear Attack.

He currently writes music under the name “Nick Campbell Destroys.” Some people think that his music sounds like a deranged amalgam of Industrial Jazz-Funk and too many tri-tone substitutions, but he thinks it just sounds like Nihilism. Nick released his debut EP "Lo-fi Bass Music For Quarantine" on August 21st, 2020, which is a collection of arrangements of standards made in his bedroom during the Covid-19 lockdown. Keep an eye out for his debut LP of all original music sometime in the next year. Also, plz respect his art.

Born and raised in Wellington, New Zealand, Grammy nominated and winning Bassist Benjamin J. Shepherd started playing when he was 7 years old. 11 years later he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a full time music career and to study with Bass legends Charlie Haden, Alphonso Johnson and Darek Oles at the California Institute of Arts (CalArts). He has since become one of the most in demand and versatile bassists in Los Angeles. His extensive resumè covering a multitude of different musical styles is a testament of his ability to virtually fit in on any gig.
His studio and live credits include: Chance the Rapper (Bassist on Grammy winning album “Coloring Book”), School Boy Q, Isaiah Rashad (Bassist and Co-producer on critically acclaimed track entitled “Free Lunch”), Kamasi Washington, Lee Ritenour, Patrice Rushen, Marquis Hill, Dave Weckl, Billy Childs, Peter Erskine, Simon Phillips, Jeff Lorber, Mike Stern, John Beasley and MONKestra (6x Grammy nominations and 1x Grammy award), Amanda Seales, Miguel Atwood Ferguson, Mark de Clive-Lowe, and many more.
Benjamin also leads his own group showcasing his original compositions as well as co-leads a duo based group called "Benjamin and The Deva with singer/songwriter Terra Deva.
He currently endorses Ibanez Basses, Aguilar Amplification, Accugroove Cabinets, Gruv Gear Accessories, GHS Strings and Xotic Pedals.

The son of Armenian immigrants, Abe was born in Los Angeles, CA and began double bass studies at the age of 9. A frequent guest with the San Francisco and San Diego Symphony Orchestras, Abe has had the unique opportunity to work with the world's leading conductors such as Michael Tilson Thomas, Ricardo Muti, John Adams, and Charles Dutoit.

 Grammy award winning electric and acoustic bassist, Abo Gumroyan, his early musical influences and how closely they were associated with his family.  Abo also discusses his orchestral work as a  Los Angeles recording session musician for television and film, and skills he's learned from doing those recording sessions.

Recording & Touring Bassist, Brandan Brown has toured with Legendary Artists such as, The Jacksons, Stevie Wonder, Isaac Hayes, Boyz II Men, Jessica Simpson and more. At the age of 19 Brandan was awarded an Oscar for his playing on the soundtrack of 2005 film “Hustle & Flow”. In addition to Brandon’s demanding tour schedule, he also leads his own project The Brandon Brown Collective.

On the podcast, Brandon speaks about studying with Victor Wooten, and other aspects of his musical journey, In addition, he speaks about  importance of having a healthy mindset has shaped his career.

Born in Richmond, Kentucky, he began playing the piano and violin as a youngster, then took up the double bass at 15. After two years of study, he won the concerto competition at Brevard Music Center with Dragonetti’s Concerto in A Major, and later was a two-time competition winner at North Carolina School of the Arts, where he was also the recipient of the Vittorio Giannini Memorial Award. Two enchanting summers were spent as a fellowship student at Tanglewood Music Center, the summer home of the illustrious Boston Symphony Orchestra.

 In 1982, Mr. Oppelt was invited by the legendary cellist and NSO Music Director Mistislav Rostropovich to join the NSO bass section, becoming the orchestra’s youngest member at age 21. He was promoted to Assistant Principal Bass in 1984 and won his current position of section leader in 1996.

 Mr. Oppelt has played concertos with the NSO and other orchestras. He also performs regularly with the Kennedy Center Chamber Players at the Kennedy Center. Other local appearances include the National Academy of Sciences, Library of Congress, Folger Shakespeare Theater, museums of The Smithsonian, and The White House for Presidents George H. W. Bush, Clinton, and Obama.

Harmoni Kelley is a nationally touring bassist and vocalist from Austin, Texas, currently on tour with country music superstar, Kenny Chesney. A self-taught musician, Harmoni picked up the bass guitar at age 17 and hasn’t looked back. With over two decades of experience both on the road and in the studio, she has mastered the art of playing by ear and understands the importance of being able to lay back, listen and play for the song.

During her time as a young musician in Austin, Harmoni worked her way up through the ranks and spent time both in the studio and on the road with local legends Fastball, James McMurtry, Slaid Cleaves and Bob Schneider to name a few. Those years proved to be the most important in starting Harmoni down the path of honing in on her craft as a bass player and vocalist. She cut her teeth with bands of all musical genres from rock, pop, blues, funk, bluegrass, country and americana. 

In 2013, Harmoni had the opportunity to make the move to Nashville, TN and jumped at the chance. During her stint in music city, she toured with Hank Williams, Jr., Radney Foster, Bonnie Bishop, Holly Williams and Louise Mandrell. All of her time spent networking and gigging around Nashville would eventually culminate with her call to audition for Kenny Chesney in 2014.

Harmoni currently splits time between her hometown of Austin, TX and Nashville, TN. When she’s not on the road with Chesney, she continues to tour and do session work with various artists around the country.

Kaisa Mäensivu is a Finnish double bass player and composer. She is currently based in New York, where she finished her Master's degree at the highly acclaimed Manhattan School of Music in May 2017. She studied under the guidance of teachers and professors such as Dave Liebman and Jay Anderson. Prior to moving to New York, Kaisa studied at the prestigious Sibelius Academy Jazz Department with professor Jukkis Uotila and Ville Herrala. 

 During her career, Kaisa has been awarded multiple awards and grants. In 2018, Kaisa was awarded as the Rising Star at the Pori Jazz Festival. In 2018 she also won the 1st prize in the Riga Jazz Stage Bass Contest. In 2017, Kaisa won the Kauko Viitamäki Award as an accomplished jazz musician. In 2017 she won the third prize in the Esko Linnavalli Big Band Composing Contest. She performs with a variety of groups in both the U.S and Finland, and also leads her own jazz quartet Kaisa's Machine, which released its debut album ’In the key of K’ via Eclipse Music in December 2017. 

Joshua Stamper has been a composer and collaborator for nearly thirty years. Equally at home in the jazz, classical, avant-garde, and indie/alternative worlds, and working with filmmakers, dancers, visual artists, poets and architects, his work reflects a deep commitment to transdisciplinary collaboration. Joshua has worked as an orchestral arranger, a studio conductor, and session musician for Columbia / Sony BMG and Concord Records, Lionsgate Films, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Legendary Entertainment, and for independent labels Domino, Dead Oceans, Important Records, Sounds Familyre, Smalltown Supersound, Joyful Noise Recordings, and Mason Jar Music.

Joshua’s work has been commissioned by the Daedalus Quartet, Mantra Percussion, and the Grammy-winning chamber choir, The Crossing. He is a MacDowell Composition Fellow, and is also the recipient of the Lincoln City Fellowship and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts Fellowship. His work has been supported by the American Composers Forum, the Lilly Endowment, the Anne M. and Philip H. Glatfelter III Family Foundation, the Musical Fund Society of Philadelphia, the Eric Stokes Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Words from Ellis:

Music Journalists Jon D'Auria (Editor in Cheif) Chris Jisi (Senior Editor) of Bass Magazine, discuss their time working as music journalists, Bass Magazine and shifts in culture that impact the magazine.

Bass Magazine is a digital publication with daily web and social media posts dedicated to being the leading light on the past, present, and future of bass. From in-depth artist interviews and revealing gear reviews to thought-provoking columns and insightful lessons, Bass Magazine is your daily destination for everything low end. Bass Magazine is brought to you by the team that created and ran Bass Player magazine for its first 30 years.

Barry Green is active as a bass soloist, recording artist, author and teacher. He has been directing bass camps and schools for over 44 years, and is founder and director of the Ohio State Bass Camp. Green has studied with the legendary bassist François Rabbath. Barry’s most recent project includes a unique exercise program called Stringersize.

 Barry Green served as principal bassist of the Cincinnati Symphony for 28 years, the principal bassist of the California Symphony and Sun Valley Idaho Summer Symphony. As former executive director of the International Society of Bassists, he taught at the University of California–Santa Cruz for 22 years before moving back to Cincinnati in spring 2018. 

Green joined the Ohio State School of Music faculty in autumn 2018. The following year Green was named International touring artist to tour all the state capitals of Australia sponsored by the Australian String Teachers Association.

 In summer 2021, Green was awarded the Special Merit honor from the International Society of Bassists. In autumn 2021, Barry organized the Bass Club Cincinnati, sponsoring several clinics for bassists of all levels including an international public concert series. Green is currently teaching bass and his inspirational courses on the mind-body and spirit at The Ohio State University School of Music.

N.Y. Electric Bassist Mike Visceglia has worked with Suzanne Vega, Jackson Browne, Avril Lavigne, Phoebe Snow,  Cyndi Lauper, Bette Midler and many others.

 Mike also co-leads a couple projects; Then Their Were Two and Pine Cats. Then Their Were Two is a duo project with Mike on electric bass and vocalist Fiona McBain. 

Mike and Fiona have cultivate arrangements of pop tunes and jazz standards in a unique musical setting.

 Pine Cats is co-led by Visceglia and NY guitarist John Putnam. This is an americana style project with Viscelgia and Putnam being joined by other world-class musicians for the 2022 release  “Bedouin Breakfast”.

 In addition to touring, working on the NY Broadway Scene and co-leading projects, Mike has also authored a book titled “A view from the side  - Stories and Perspectives on the Music Business: Interviews with Bass Giants Will Lee, Marcus Miller, Leland Sklar, Tony Levin, and More.”

Tim Landers is session bass player, spending some time on the NY session scene and working as a session player in Los Angeles. Tim has worked with jazz/fusion artists such as Al Di Meola, Billy Cobham, and Gil Evans. Tim has also worked with; Tracy Chapman, Tori Amos, Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin.

In Addition, Tim has made incredible contributions to bass guitar design. He was on the ground floor with the Pedulla Buzz bass and Peavey Dyna Bass as well as his Signature Series, the Peavey TL-5 and TL-6. 

https://www.instagram.com/the_bass_shed/The Bass Shed Podcast hits 100! On this very special episode, I revisit some important conversations i've had with guests over the years. Interview clips from:

EP 77 - Lance Morrison
Composer, touring and session bassist Lance Morrison has recorded/performed with Rod Stewart, Alanis Morissete, The New Radicals, Lee Ann Rhymes, Rick Springfield, Don Henley, Richard Marx, Volto, The Coors, Gavin DeGraw and more. Lance is a member of Mike Campbell’s band “Dirty Knobs”.

check out the full episode with Lance Morrison

EP 80 - Jeff Bradetich
Jeff Bradetich is regarded as one of the leading performers and teachers of the double bass in the United States. He has won many major solo competitions, recorded six solo albums of music for double bass and piano and has been featured on radio and television throughout North and South America and Europe including CBS, CNN, BBC and NPR. 

He has taught on the faculties of the University of Michigan and Northwestern University prior to his 1994 appointment as director of the largest double bass program in the world at the University of North Texas College of Music. In addition to his performance and professional experience, Bradetich has also transcribed over 100 solo works. 

Jeff Bradetich was the Executive  Director of The International Association of Double Bassists from 1982 - 1990, is currently the President of the Bradetich Foundation and continues to give masterclasses and educate a new generation of Double Bassists.

check out the full episode with Jeff Bradetich

EP 58 - Fred Thomas
Fred Thomas grew up in the US state of Georgia. He moved to New York City in 1965 and co-founded his own band with guitarist Hearlon "Cheese" Martin. He was the bassist as well as the lead vocalist of the group. 

In 1971 James Brown saw the band at Smalls Paradise club in Harlem. Brown was in search of new musicians for his own band. He did an impromptu performance with the band and decided to hire the whole group. Thomas said his band used to cover Brown's songs and that joining Brown was a smooth transition for them. He recorded on Brown's releases during 1970s. The first album titled Hot Pants was in 1971. He also recorded on releases by The J.B.'s. Many of these recordings were later sampled in hip hop music, such as "Pass the Peas", "Gimme Some More", and "Escape-ism".

Thomas performed with Brown for more than thirty years, longer than other bassists in that position. He recorded on several R&B number one hits such as "Hot Pants", "Make It Funky", and "Papa Don't Take No Mess".

check out the full episode with Fred Thomas


EP 65 - Eri Revis
Veteran Jazz Bassist Eric Revis speaks about his latest recording “Slipknots Through A Looking Glass” and composing and recording process. Revis also speaks about artistic concepts that influence his bass playing, the nature of jazz vocabulary, his time working and recording