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Freelancing in a College Town: Respect the Genre by Jonathan Moody
Freelancing in a College Town: Respect the Genre… By a show of hands (figuratively, of course), how many of you all, when asked the question “What kind of music do you listen to?” answer with “I like anything, really.” Also, when asked what kind of music you like to play, follow suit with “I can play anything.” Now honestly, how many of those styles of music can you listen to (at length), let alone play well? This latest installment of my freelancing series is about respecting the genre that you are playing, instead of just saying that you’re familiar with it.
Case in point: I had backed up a very talented singer/songwriter named Kristin Luna Ray (find her at www.kristinray.com) on occasion when she was in town, playing at church. Thanks to Facebook, I found out that she would be in town on Sunday (last night), playing a Kirtan. I asked her when and where (thinking it would be great to see/hear her again), and she followed it with “Do you want to sit in?” Never one to turn down the opportunity to try something new (my wife would say I’m a “trial by fire” kind of guy), I jumped at the opportunity.
I grabbed her latest album and listened to it all weekend, as well as looked up the definition of Kirtan to get a greater understanding of what was going to happen. Having never been to one – let alone played one – I wanted to make sure that whatever I was going to do was going to serve the music. And that is the first point I want to make; do your homework. Music is a historically and spiritually rich thing, and you need to know what you are stepping into, and make sure that you’re serving it appropriately.
And with that, I want to bring up another point that I see all too often in our younger musicians; don’t assume anything. Just because a style of music is similar to one you are well versed in does not guarantee that you’re going to be able to go into that gig and nail it. I’ve played with a lot of jazz guys that are well versed in hard bop and everything post 1950’s jazz, and watched them fall completely on their face when the gig is all swing/dance hall classics from the 1930’s.
Back to the Kirtan. With fretless in hand (after listening to her album, I thought that the best choice), I walked into the Kirtan and set up. Now, initially I was told that she’d have some charts for me, but as we all know, when you’re on the road you may not have time to come up with these. I had a couple of lead sheets, but for half of the songs I’d be relying on my ears and whatever she could tell me from the bandstand. She also said to watch the drummer and dulcimer player as they’d all help me through it. And this brings me to my next point; take direction, but more importantly, take it gracefully. When it came down to it, they were all the experts in this genre of music that I was not familiar with. I was relying on them and their expertise to be able to play this gig; they were the teachers and I was the eager student. Anything I could learn would not only benefit the overall gig, but my personal musical journey as well.
Again, I’ve seen many musicians take this for granted, thinking that their chops and technique are going to get them through the unknown gigs. I’ve had that mentality before, and I’ve ruined a good amount of gigs by thinking “Oh, it’s just a blues gig. That stuff is easy.” Technically, yes. Musically, by no means is the blues easy. And those of you that have played the blues (or in blues bands), know what I mean. And to those overly-patient old bluesmen that this (then) young upstart sat in with, you have my deepest respect.
The Kirtan started, and went rather well as we gelled musically as a quartet and moved through song after song for the 90 minute set. Afterwards they all thanked me for my playing, mentioning that they appreciated how I could play so subtly and sweetly when needed. Truthfully, I just listened to what was happening, and tried to make sure that whatever I was playing would add to the overall music. Much like that quote about making your bass playing be as fluid as water (I think Vic said it?), I tried to fill up the sonic space where it was needed. Sometimes that was sitting on the low B, and sometimes it was providing something more. And even at times, that meant playing nothing at all.
As a musician (freelance or otherwise), you will have a number of opportunities (which I suggest you take) to stretch your musical vocabulary and knowledge by playing new genres. All of the points we’ve covered above are a good starting place to get you in the proverbial ballpark to be able to walk in and play that gig. But the biggest thing I can mention in regard to respecting the genre is exactly that; respect. Musical styles are similar and can draw some influences from what you may already know. That doesn’t mean that just because you can play style A, that everything that’s similar to it is a piece of cake. All it means is that you’ve got a small idea of what “might” happen, which I’d argue is more dangerous than no knowledge at all. But with the respect for each and every genre of music that comes your way, you will have the attitude and the ability to learn and grow. You will also have the respect and appreciation of the musicians you play with.
Bass Videos
New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers
New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers…
Aguilar Amplification is excited to unveil the next generation of Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers. These amplifiers are designed to meet the exacting standards of today’s bassists, enhancing their musical expression through in-demand features and fresh new designs.
The latest innovations in the Tone Hammer and AG series include the introduction of the Aguilar Cabinet Suite, dual XLR outputs, expanded connectivity options, and power section upgrades. These features not only provide superior sound quality and flexibility but also maintain the classic Aguilar performance that musicians have relied upon.
Key features of the next-generation amplifiers:
Aguilar Cabinet Suite: This new software allows players to load Aguilar ’s custom-designed SL/DB cabinet impulse responses (IRs), or their own custom IR files. This feature is available through both XLR and headphone outputs, offering new tone shaping and cabinet emulation options.
Dual XLR Outputs & Expanded Connectivity: Musicians can now tailor their tone and utilize cabinet IRs for their monitor mix, while also sending a pre-EQ ’d signal directly to the front-of-house. This dual functionality ensures optimal sound for both the artist and front-of-house. The new amplifiers include auxiliary input and headphone output options for silent practice. They also feature mix controls to fine-tune the listening experience, ideal for both practice and performance.
Upgraded Power Sections: Previously exclusive to Aguilar’s 700-series, the upgraded power sections in the Tone Hammer and AG 500 now support a 2.67 ohm load and include universal mains. These enhancements make the amplifiers perfect for international touring, offering seamless voltage adaptation.
“The new Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers are a testament to Aguilar ’s commitment to world class sound and performance, providing bassists with the tools they need to define their sound on the global stage,” remarks Jordan Cortese, Brand Manager, Aguilar Musical Instruments.
The next-generation Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers are available for purchase through www.aguilaramp.com and Aguilar’s extensive dealer network worldwide. For more information about the new amplifiers and other Aguilar products, please visit www.aguilaramp.com.
Gear News
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
Spector offers Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses…
Spector, a leading authority in bass guitar design, unveils two new Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses. Synonymous with bass excellence since 1987, Wimbish collaborated with Spector’s USA Custom Shop to create the DW-4 and DW-5 models, echoing the iconic instruments that have been favored heavily throughout his recording and performing career.
These signature basses faithfully replicate Wimbish’s originals, down to the smallest details like neck contours and nut widths. Customized EMG pickups, developed in collaboration with Wimbish, capture the distinctive sound that has shaped his monumental musical impact. These models invite players to explore the feel and response that have defined Wimbish’s signature style over the years.
Available in 4-string and 5-string versions, each model boasts unique features & finish options. The DW-4 comes in Amber Stain Gloss and Black Stain Gloss options, while the DW-5 offers Dark Blue Stain Gloss and Faded Natural Gloss. Every purchase includes a certificate of authenticity signed by Doug Wimbish. Wimbish comments, “Spector took the time to get every little nuance right, and that to me is dedication and being thoughtful enough to know ‘I want to nail it,’ and they did. I’m able to pick these instruments up for the first time and play them like I’ve already had them for years.”
For more information, visit spectorbass.com/doug-wimbish-usa-signature-series/.
Photo: Doug Wimbish, pictured with the new Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses
Bass CDs
New Campaign: Alberto Rigoni, Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings
Italian bass master and composer ALBERTO RIGONI is thrilled to announce his brand new project “Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings”.
Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings features a super talented drummer from Japan (TBA) and tons of female guitarists such as SAKI, Giusy Busetto, Alexandra Zerner (TBC) and many many others (TBA). Furthermore, Alberto has also launched a Fundraising Campaign for the project. 20% of the income will be donated to Lega del Filo d’Oro legadelfilodoro.it/it, an Italian association that helps deaf and blind children!
Alberto shares:
“Hello friends and music lovers! I’m Alberto Rigoni, an Italian composer and.. a BASS GUY! Between 2008 and 2024 I released 13 solo albums, spanning from progressive, rock, ambient to funky and experimental music, which also features contributions from musicians such as keyboard wizard Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) drummer Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree) and Marco Minnemann (the Aristocrats), keyboardist Kevin Moore (ex Dream Theater), singer John Jeff Soto (ex Goran Edman (ex Y. Malmsteen), bassists Nathan East, Stu Hamm (Joe Satriani), Nik West (ex Prince) and many others. I’m also bass player for BAD As, Sunset Groove Society, Kim Bingham, The Italians bands and co-producer of Mistheria’s Vivaldi Metal Project.”
Alberto on the new project Nemesis Call:
“Even if my latest album “Unexpected Lullabies”, dedicated to my newborn Vittoria Parini Rigoni, will be released on June 4th, 2024, when Vittoria came to life I felt the need to compose new music (yes, I really can’t stop!!!!!). This time will be quite challenging because I’m willing to release an instrumental ambient/prog/rock/metal album, that will feature a talented and young drummer (TBA) and tons of female guitarists (that’s why I will call the album “Queens of the Strings”) such as Alexandra Zerner, YOKA and many others (TBA/TBC)). It won’t be easy to manage all such great musicians but I will make it!! Are you ready to face a new prog experience? The album will be released in Digipack CD and in high-quality digital format approximately at the beginning of 2025.”
The Fundraising Campaign:
As an independent artist, Alberto is looking for supporters who can help him reach the budget for the production (recordings, mix, mastering, artwork etc.) of this new album and has started this fundraising campaign that will end successfully on October 15th, 2024.
Get further information about Alberto Rigoni’s new project Nemesis Call Fundraising campaign at albertorigoni.net/nemesiscal
Bass Videos
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
Bassist Derek Frank…
Many of you will remember the last time I chatted with Derek Frank was back in 2017. The main thing that impressed me was how busy Derek was and how he juggled playing with many huge acts.
Now, I am happy to hear that Derek launched a new album last March titled “Origin Story” where he digs deep into his roots and pays homage to Pittsburg.
Join me as we get caught up after all these years and hear the details about the new album, how Derek gets his sound, and his plans for the future.
Photo, Stephen Bradley
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www.derekfrank.com
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This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Check out our top 10 favorite basses on Instagram this week…
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New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
String Instrument Humidifiers
Interview With Bassist Graham Stanush
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
New Campaign: Alberto Rigoni, Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings
Luthier Spotlight: Ellis Hahn of LEH Basses
Approach Notes – Part 6
