Bass DVDs
DVD Reviews With Tim Seisser : Mike Stern, Live New Morning
Meet Tim Seiser –
Scroll down to download the Examples to go with this review
Mike Stern could be a bass players favorite band leader. He constantly surrounds himself with New York City’s best bassists including Richard Bona, Janek Gwizdala, Lincoln Goines, Victor Wooten and, for this DVD, Tom Kennedy. Tom is paired with his long time partner in crime Dave Weckl on the drums, and this duo does not disappoint. Also joining the band is saxophonist Bob Franceschini, a long time band mate of Mike. This is Mike’s second live DVD filmed at The New Morning in Paris, and it is apparent that Mike really enjoys performing at this stellar venue.
The band opens the concert with a bang, performing Mike’s tune “Tumble Home”. They don’t waste anytime in getting down to business, grooving in full force right out of the gates (Ex.1). The head of the tune is full of twists and turns, and then eases into a light jazz walking feel for solos on a C minor blues. Tom showcases his ability to swing with an upright sensibility on the electric bass. His lines are a thing of beauty, chock full of pedal tones, pull offs, triplet fills and sophisticated harmonic movement. After fulfilling the accompanist role, Tom gives the audience a taste of his incredible solo chops. Check out the introduction he uses in his first two choruses, before he jumps into bebop mode (Ex. 2)
The next number is an easy grooving song entitled “KT”. It features Tom and Dave in a much more subdued context than the previous number. The groove is airtight and takes on a quasi-reggae feel for the soloists. Dave gets his chance to play over a slick bass/guitar unison vamp before they take the tune out (Ex. 3).
“Wishing Well” originally appeared on Mike’s 2001 release “Voices”. This song has folk like qualities and features some very nice upper register playing by Tom under the melody. He uses a unique percussive muting technique to give his lines a kalimba timbre. The rhythm section really picks up steam under Bob’s sax solo. Tom and Dave lock into a double time groove while Mike strums a series of chords with changing root movement but ostinato upper chord tones (Ex. 4). It is truly inspiring to watch musicians of this caliber play so fluently and naturally over such a beautifully written song.
The next song the group performs is also from the aforementioned album “Voices”. It is a ballad entitled “What Might Have Been”. Mike starts the song of with an extended introduction, accompanied only by Dave’s hand drumming. I have heard many drummers use this technique before but none so convincingly as Dave Weckl. Tom is given a chance to take the soloist spotlight again on this haunting ballad. His solo is a prime example of how to solo over a ballad in a disciplined and mature fashion (Ex. 5).
The band completely changes direction for the next song, “Chatter”. The song opens with some collective improvisation from the four members, with Tom playing some funky sixteenth note lines. The tune gets even more interesting from then on, devolving into an open free jazz section and then into the main form. Tom is playing the entire range of his bass under the melody; playing chords, twisting melodic lines, and in the pocket grooves. (Ex. 6).
Next on the program is the song “That’s All It Is”. It is a medium tempo song that features some great solo trading between Mike and Bob. Tom and Dave get a chance to shine as a team after the guitar/sax trading. They are both playing a lot of lines and fills but never lose the pocket and are always locked into the backbeat. Bob and Mike take the melody of the tune out and even sneak in a “Jean Pierre” quote, which garners applause from the audience.
The program once again slows down for another beautiful ballad titled “Wing and A Prayer”. This song originally appeared on Mike’s album “Between the Lines”. It features great brush work from Dave as well as some wonderful soloing from both Mike and Bob.
The band closes out the show with a bang playing one of my favorite Stern compositions “Chromazone”. Mike and Tom play the funky intro groove in unison before Mike departs to play the melody with Bob (Ex. 7). The melody is full of chromatic twists and turns, hence the title of the song. Dave and Tom are rhythmically locked in the entire song, showing why they are one of the best one-two punches in the business. Dave gets a chance to showcase his solo chops over a another vamp before the band takes the tune out and closes the show with a true rock’n’roll ending.
The DVD also features bonus behind the scenes footage of the band soundchecking, as well as interviews with Mike about each member of this killer band.
The entire DVD was shot in HD and is crystal clear in both audio and video quality. A personal note; it is very nice to see shots of a young, hip and enthusiastic audience in a jazz club. The venue is so full that there are actually audience members sitting on the floor in the rows between the seats.
Mike Stern is one of the premier guitarists around the jazz scene today. His playing and writing are a refreshing blend of many influences that combine to create a exciting and always interesting live performance. This DVD is a shining example of why Mike Stern will always be considered one of jazz’s all time greats.
Click below to download the examples to go with this review
SUPREME MYSTIC manifest an eerie atmosphere with discordant undertones in the new single, “Stealing Beauty”. The untamable heavy music force hailing from Detroit are preparing for the arrival of their debut album Kala Rupa, due out October 3 via MahaVishnu Records in partnership with Third House Communications.
“Stealing Beauty” speaks to betrayal and envy in a world that feeds on appearances and weakness. Sonically, stoner rock and post hardcore styles collide to form a distinctive sound that is both highly immersive and aggressively fierce.
“Stealing Beauty” is released alongside a new music video that delves into dynamic visuals around SUPREME MYSTIC’s home city and reveals the influence of spiritual mysticism in their art.
This marks a new chapter for Couls, stepping forward not just as a bassist, but as a full-fledged frontman, songwriter, and voice of purpose.
The band’s lineup features Jeff Shankin (UNIVERSAL STOMP, EARTHMOVER) on drums, Alfredo Riojas on lead guitar, and Luis Ulloa on keyboards, completing a powerhouse unit known for dynamic live performances and philosophical depth.
Visit online at suprememystic.bandcamp.com/album/kala-rupa
Terry Syrek Unleashes Story 2—A Dazzling Instrumental Masterpiece of Progressive Rock and Metal…
Prepare for an auditory adventure of the highest calibre. Nearly four years after the release of Story, visionary guitarist Terry Syrek returns with Story 2—a high-octane instrumental odyssey of progressive rock and metal.
Featuring breath-taking performances from world-class musicians:
Marco Minnemann (Germany) – The drumming powerhouse redefining precision and complexity. “I work with many great guitarists, but WOW. Terry is exactly in that same level.”
Bryan Beller (USA) – A bass legend known for his work with The Aristocrats and Joe Satriani. “This album pushed me to the very limit of my ability and beyond.”
Mohini Dey (India) – A bass prodigy whose dazzling technique mesmerises audiences worldwide.
Lalle Larsson (Sweden) – The Flower Kings keyboard wizard bringing emotion and intensity to every note.
Erik Rydvall (Sweden) – A nyckelharpa virtuoso adding haunting beauty to Syrek’s vision.
This time, Syrek approached the project with a clearer vision of his collaborators: “With Story 2, I kinda knew who the band was probably gonna be. I kept that in mind during the writing process. So, you could say, I specifically wrote parts for each of the respective members, or at least, with them in mind.”
Syrek also shifted his compositional approach: “I approached the writing in a larger, more symphonic way, as I was pretty sure Lalle would be back to play with my arrangements. Story 1 was originally meant to be more of a ‘Rush’ model with a 3-piece rock band and some minimal synths melodic things.”
With mixing by James (Jimmy T) Meslin (Dream Theater) and mastering handled by Maor Appelbaum, Story 2 delivers sonic artistry of the highest order—every note crisp, every riff thunderous, every melody soaring.
But Story 2 is more than just mind-blowing technical mastery. It’s a thrilling concept album, following two creatures on an epic snowy adventure into the frozen north, once again narrated by Hollywood voice actor Keith Szarabajka (The Dark Knight, The X-Files, Call of Duty). “I actually wrote the majority of the story first, this time,” Syrek explains, “and then came up with music to support the journey.
Brace yourself for jaw-dropping, pulse-pounding compositions that explore the limits of musical expression. The intensity is matched by sheer emotion—Lalle Larsson describes it as “Passionate lyrical melodies that will give you goosebumps.”
According to Terry, Story 2 is the result of musicians pushed to the very limit, but without sacrificing the songwriting. “The compositions, the guitar playing… it was all about creating strong melodies, adding in dynamics, harmonic content, rhythmic content, and always trying to give it emotional ‘heart’ to tie in to the story.”
From frenetic and high-energy arrangements to deeply expressive moments, Story 2 takes listeners on an unforgettable musical odyssey. “It’s funny that Terry calls the album Story, because it really does feel like you’re being told a story. Terry’s songs, as frenetic and crazy as they are, always take you on a journey.” – Bryan Beller
Whether you’re a die-hard prog metal fan or a music lover looking for an unforgettable listening experience, Story 2 is an essential album. In a world craving innovation and authenticity, Story 2 is a magnetic blend of technical brilliance and emotional depth that marks Terry Syrek’s triumphant return.
Don’t just listen—experience the magic. Story 2 is available now, ready to reignite the passion of instrumental prog rock and metal aficionados everywhere!
Visit online at www.terrysyrek.com
Triumph Feature Documentary Rock & Roll Machine Now Available On Video On Demand
The much-talked about Triumph feature documentary, Rock & Roll Machine is now available worldwide ex Canada for purchase and rental via iTunes, Google Play, and Amazon Prime.
Directed by Banger Films’ Sam Dunn and Marc Ricciardelli, ‘Triumph: Rock & Roll Machine’ delivers on revisiting a band that sold millions of albums, played for millions of fans, and never put themselves above their audience.
“Triumph lays it all on the line in this endlessly fascinating documentary, in turn cementing their legacy as a tireless Canadian rock trio whose galvanizing magic power — as evidenced on both the live stage and within the grooves of their many brilliant albums — could simply not be contained. Triumph’s ongoing, lasting musical impact resides well beyond their native border.”
–Mike Mettler, Sound & Vision Magazine
“The Triumph story was compelling to me, Marc, and the Banger team because it was an opportunity to piece together a broken puzzle,” says Dunn. “We wanted to know how and why the band dissolved at the peak of their powers. It was quite the ride!”
“Sam and Marc did an outstanding job documenting what it has been like to have been aboard the Triumph train for the past near-50 years,” raves Triumph bassist Mike Levine. “For fans old, new, and those to come in the future, this is all they’ll need to know about the band.”
The Triumph line-up – Rik Emmett, Gil Moore, and Mike Levine – rocked the world, and in the process, gave us countless classic hard rock anthems (“Fight the Good Fight,” “Hold On,” “Magic Power,” “I Live for the Weekend,” “Lay It On the Line,” and of course, “Rock & Roll Machine,” and albums (Just a Game, Progressions of Power, Allied Forces, Never Surrender, Thunder Seven, etc.).
Originally formed in 1975 and hailing from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, the trio was always proud of their Great White North roots. And seemingly ever since their inception, Triumph was on the cutting edge of technology when it came to their live show – particularly lighting, sound, and effects.
Sophisticated lasers, pyrotechnics and moving lighting rigs, all computer-controlled – Triumph was one of the first arena rock bands to incorporate all of these elements into their shows. Triumph’s headlining tours were legendary, and the band was featured on many memorable stadium/outdoor shows – including the US Festival, the World Series of Rock, the American Rock Festival and Texxas Jam, Day on the Green, to name but a few.
“One of the best music documentaries I’ve ever seen, ‘Rock & Roll Machine’ is a superbly crafted documentary – an in-depth look at a band that makes me proud to be Canadian…a true TRIUMPH of a story!” — Jason Rockman, iHeart Radio / CHOM FM.
The film is produced by Banger Films in association with Revolver Films, Bell Media’s Crave, Live Nation Productions and NBC Universal Canada, along with the participation of the Rogers Documentary Fund and Slaight Communications Inc.
Go here to choose your preferred movie rental or download service: roundhill.ffm.to/triumph-doc
The digital soundtrack can be streamed here: triumph.lnk.to/soundtrack
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: triumphmusic.com
TRENCHES OF ROCK…
I was set to interview Michael Bloodgood this past February, the bassist and co-founder of the band Bloodgood, only one week prior to him suffering a hemorrhagic stroke and subsequent brain bleed, from which he never recovered. After a valiant fight, we lost Michael this past July. While I am saddened that I did not have the opportunity to talk with him, his son Paul Michael Bloodgood will get to tell the story of his father’s legacy in the upcoming film, TRENCHES OF ROCK. …Michael will be missed.
Executive Produced by Oscar® and Grammy® winner James Moll (FOO FIGHTERS: BACK AND FORTH) and the recipient of 14 film festival awards, TRENCHES OF ROCK depicts the story of 1980s heavy metal band BLOODGOOD, who was targeted not only by a mainstream music industry that found their blatant use of faith-based lyrics an unfitting marriage with heavy metal, but also by religious extremists who believed their music was the work of the devil.
BLOODGOOD became a trailblazer of Christian Heavy Metal – touring the world and facing adversity head-on while confronted by death threats, picketers and protests against these “metal missionaries”. TRENCHES OF ROCK had its world premiere at the Atlanta Film Festival and garnered the attention of festivals worldwide, receiving numerous accolades including multiple “BEST FEATURE DOCUMENTARY” and “BEST DIRECTOR” awards. TRENCHES OF ROCK is directed by Lone Star Emmy® winner Paul Michael Bloodgood.
Available online at trenchesofrockfilm.com
Shinedown ATTENTION ATTENTION…
Gravitas Ventures, a Red Arrow Studios Company, has acquired worldwide distribution rights to Shinedown’s film ATTENTION ATTENTION, a cinematic experience of the band’s 2018 studio album of the same name. Directed by Bill Yukich and featuring band members Brent Smith [vocals], Zach Myers [guitar], Eric Bass [bass, production], and Barry Kerch [drums] along with actresses Francesca Eastwood and Melora Walters, Gravitas Ventures will release ATTENTION ATTENTION on digital and cable VOD on September 3, 2021.
Multi-platinum band Shinedown invites viewers into the world of ATTENTION ATTENTION in their new film, bringing to life the story of the acclaimed chart-topping album, which simultaneously hit #1 on Billboard’s Alternative, Top Rock, and Hard Rock Albums Charts, debuted Top 5 on the Billboard 200, and has racked up more than 355 million global streams. A stunning sonic and visual work of art, the film weaves the 14 songs from the album into a provocative, visceral and thought-provoking journey that brings viewers along on a psychological, emotional and physical ride from life’s lowest lows to the highest highs. As anxieties dissipate and demons disappear, what emerges is a powerful and enduring statement about humanity, overcoming struggles, the importance of mental health, not being afraid to fail and the resolve of the human spirit.
“When we created ATTENTION ATTENTION, our vision was always to present the message as a sonic and visual experience. We’re really proud of what we created and are beyond excited to partner with Gravitas Ventures to finally bring the film in its entirety to the world,” said Shinedown.
“ATTENTION ATTENTION the film is where the songs of the album come together with people this music has had a profound impact on. What begins as many stories, many voices, steadily becomes one message, one voice from many. Years in the making, I am beyond pleased to be able to share this vision, which was inspired by this amazing band,” said director Bill Yukich.
“Shinedown found the ideal director in Bill Yukich to turn their acclaimed album into a dynamic cinematic experience. It’s a testament to their continued innovation as artists, and we look forward to unveiling the film to audiences worldwide,” said Tony Piantedosi, Vice President of Acquisitions at Gravitas Ventures.
Gravitas Ventures Vice President of Acquisitions, Tony Piantedosi negotiated the deal with Billy Offer and Nick Shumaker of United Talent Agency.
For more information, visit online at shinedown.com.
Gear News: Fender Unveils Highly Anticipated Vintera III Series
New Music: Oteil Burbridge & Lamar Williams Jr. New Single, Hush
Interview With Bassist Virginia Franks
Nathan East, Echoes of a Lineage – April/May 2026 Issue
Gear Review: Italia Leather Straps
Mar 2 Edition – This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Mar 9 Edition – This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Mar 16 Edition – This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Mar 23 Edition – This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram