Latest
Luthier Spotlight: Kevin Butler, Rockhewer Custom Guitars
Luthier Spotlight: An Interview with Kevin Butler from Rockhewer Custom Guitars…
How did you get your start in music?
My older brother is a drummer, so growing up I had rhythms “pounded” into my head from the adjacent bedroom. There was also a bunch of cool music I discovered because of his record collection…. Return to Forever, Mahavishnu Orchestra, Yes, ELP, King Crimson, etc. This 70’s era fusion/prog remains my favorite music, and represents to me a standard of excellence far beyond the mediocrity of the mainstream – Standards that I try to reflect in my work.
As far as influence… Stanley Clarke was definitely influential in my being drawn towards the Bass.
My brother had played briefly in a band with Greg Chaisson, who went on to play in Badlands. I bought my first bass from Greg in about ’79 or ’80… a heavily modded 70’s Telecaster bass. It had a Precision neck, and P/J pickups in addition to a Bill Lawrence humbucker at the stock Tele bass neck position. Cool bass. Wish I still had it.
Model: Rockhewer Tribute? Devastator inspired “Arachnophilia” – Red Mallee burl, Maple, RedHeart, Ebony, Birdseye Maple
Are you still an active player?
Not really “active” no. I was in a few average level garage/bar bands in the late 80’s. But nowadays, I really only play when I am testing & setting up a new build.
How did you get started as a Luthier? When did you build your first bass?
I built my first bass in ’83 as a senior in high school. I was a huge “shop hound” (back when schools still had extensive industrial arts programs). I have always had a burning desire to build things… since I was 5. Building my own bass felt completely natural.
Model Rockhewer Tribute build, Alembic inspired – Walnut, Wenge, Bubinga, Maple
How did you learn the art of woodworking/Luthier? Who would you consider a Mentor?
How long can this interview be? Haha!
Very early in my career, I took a job at a woodshop for a few years. I was fortunate to have a bench next to an “old timer” who taught me a lot about woodworking in general. Also the finesse of a perfectionist, a tendency we both had.
But after that job I found another “calling” in the stone countertop /furniture fabrication business; my relationship with rock and wood as artistic building materials is very similar. I have always gravitated to the artistic side of manufacturing. So I taught myself to carve/sculpt marble. I was super passionate about it. That’s where the whole “Rockhewer” moniker actually comes from. But about 10 years ago, prompted in part by back issues, I got back into woodworking.
When I decided to start building basses in earnest I first spent about a full year studying, every spare moment, anything I could find on the web & books etc. on the art & science of Luthiery. I became literally obsessed, I couldn’t get enough.
There is a LOT of info available out there but my proficiency at woodworking allowed me to discern which guitar building “tutorials” were valid & worth learning from and which ones were just kind of “hack”.
As far as a Luthier mentor… I really liked Randall Fullmer’s (Wyn Guitars) bass building video series. He’s a great guy and builds a fine bass. We have since become friends, corresponding by email, and I have visited his shop. Another friend I have made and visited is Neal Moser; a true legend in this business. His shop is about an hour north of me. We have actually discussed collaborating on a few guitars in the not too distant future.
Often I have called upon these two gentlemen for questions/advice. And they are both an inspiration to me in different ways.
Model Rockhewer Tribute build, Alembic inspired – Walnut, Wenge, Bubinga, Maple
How do you select the woods you choose to build with?
All my basses have multi lam. through-body necks, and I am very particular as to their construction. I use woods that is notoriously stable for their core. For instance, Rock maple, ebony, and bubinga get used a lot. And the grain structure needs to be appropriate, so I try to source most of that locally. If I feel a need to buy neck wood online I will ask the seller to shoot me a picture of the endgrain.
I keep the wood I will use for necks, cut to slightly oversize blanks, stored in my shop for at least 6 months ahead of a build. These are all carefully matched pairs, for proper grain orientation, and checked for moisture content.
For figured tops, I keep some stock, but I will often source this wood per client’s wishes upon receiving deposit on a commission.
Model Rockhewer Custom “Andromeda” (L.Townsend sig.) – Spalted maple, CurlyMaple, Ebony
What pickups did you use in the past? What electronics do you use right now?
I like EMG active. They also make a great EQ/blend circuit (BQC system) I use on each build. I am however, willing to deviate, if a client is adamant on using something else.
Who were some of the first well-known musicians who started playing your basses?
Paul Ranieri, (Mark Wood Experience) played one of my basses on a summer tour a while back. We have started design work on a custom for him. Andy West (Dixie Dregs) recently came by my shop and played a couple. We discussed designing one for him but he is super-busy with preparations for their reunion tour, so that’s on hold.
R. Michael (World Divine)-(repeat client), I am working on his second. B. Devlin and M. Rubin (repeat clients) are fantastic veteran players, and both VERY prominent collectors. Their patronage & enthusiasm speaks volumes.
Model Rockhewer Tribute build, Alembic inspired – Walnut, Wenge, Maple
How do you develop a signature or custom bass for an artist?
A lot of communication, concerning fundamentally what they are looking for. Obviously, what configuration & dimensional parameters, but also desired tonal qualities. Wood species choices do affect this. So they are discussed as part of that recipe.
Then basic design. I will both submit and receive drawings, to be potentially further modified to their taste, as long as they are feasible, and then back and forth until the client is happy.
I am willing to build complete one-off designs, with as much or as little input as a client desires. Some have said, “I want this and this, otherwise I trust your judgment.” Some have much more detailed ideas. Both are fine with me.
Bespoke basses and guitars… not just a limited menu of offered designs & features.
Model Rockhewer MythosX Custom “Divine” – Quilted Maple, Ebony, Birdseye Maple
What are a few things that you are proud about your instruments and that you would consider unique in your instruments?
I am proud of the fact that several of my repeat clients, are bonified serious collectors, and have owned very many top-shelf, high-end basses. They have ALL stated that they are *extremely* happy with my work. In fact, preferring their Rockhewer basses above most all other higher priced, high-end models they own or have owned.
Can you give us a word of advice to young Luthiers who are just starting out?
If STUDYING the craft is not EXTREMELY enjoyable… If you are not completely thrilled & obsessed with learning how to do it right… then don’t bother.
Model Rockhewer MythosX “Brunhilde” – Walnut, Curly Maple, Bubinga
Are you preparing something new, some new model or new design?
For a recent build I asked Michael Harwood (Melodious Resonance Constructs) to develop and create pickups I could embed under topwood. This obviously cleans up the aesthetics of a gorgeous bookmatched top, without having to rely on piezo’s. He nailed it & they work great! We need to test this on other configurations but it looks promising as a new development.
I also have a couple of new design options in the prototype phase.
What advice would you give a young musician trying to find his perfect bass?
If a “young” musician is first learning… play what you can afford. But when you get a little bit of competency under your belt go and try a bunch of different basses to see what works best for you.
But in that search, try to find independent guitar shops that actually keep their basses set up properly. (Not GC) Take note of what differences about a bass feel good to you. Maybe even keep a little ruler in your pocket to note exact neck dimensions and string spacing. Then as you advance, you will have a better idea what to spend your money on that will help you play better.
Some say, “an expensive bass won’t make you play better, and I would basically agree to a point. But if a bass is “tailored” to your every preference? If playing is as effortless as possible because it was impeccably built & set up? If the tone is sweet, bright, yet punchy… powerful and harmonically brilliant? If it is just so damn gorgeous and sexy that you beam with pride when you pull it from the case, and strap it on? You cannot say that all this combined will not have a positive effect on a live performance!
Model Rockhewer Mythos “Hreidmar” – Bubinga, Curly Maple, Wenge
What are your future plans?
Continue building a reputation for fine, quality boutique instruments. I am also working on a couple of guitars as well as my bass commissions.
Where as this year I have too much going on I do plan on exhibiting at NAMM in Jan 2019
Follow on Facebook @Rockhewercustomguitars
Positive Grid launches Spark 2, the next evolution of their cutting-edge smart guitar practice amplifiers and Bluetooth® speakers.
Engineered for acoustic, electric guitar, and bass, Spark 2 delivers an immersive practice and playing experience. Enjoy detailed sound and an all-new upgraded speaker design powered by Positive Grid’s exclusive Sonic IQ Computational Audio technology. With an onboard creative looper, optional battery power, and intuitive AI features for tone exploration and practice, Spark 2 is the gateway to a musical experience that goes beyond expectations.
Proprietary Audio and Advanced Technology
Spark 2 represents a leap forward in amplifier design. It integrates a new DSP amp modeling engine with double the processing power, and at 50 Watts, it packs 25% more volume than the original. Positive Grid’s proprietary Sonic IQ Computational Audio delivers incredibly detailed and dynamic sound. New HD amp models, enhanced by multi-band dynamic range compression and virtual bass augmentation, redefine the sonic landscape.
Equipped with two premium FRFR speakers and reflex ports, Spark 2 offers wide stereo imaging and broader frequency response, ensuring refined bass and clear, immersive sound.
Built-In Creative Looper
Spark 2’s built-in Groove Looper features hundreds of hyper-realistic drum tracks. From basic loops to multi-layered soundscapes or the ultimate jam session, this intuitive tool inspires endless creativity. Onboard amp controls provide quick, on-the-go looping functionality.
AI-Powered Tone and Smart Jam
Spark AI revolutionizes tone exploration. Describe any desired tone in the Spark app – from practical to outlandish – and Spark AI will suggest tones to audition or download. The more it’s used, the smarter it gets, delivering the perfect sound.
Additional smart features make it easy to practice, learn new songs and improve playing skills. Smart Jam listens to the user’s playing style and generates accompanying bass and drum parts, while Auto Chords analyzes any song streamed and displays the guitar chords in real time, to make learning and practicing new songs easier than ever.
Enhanced Hardware Design and Portability
Spark 2 allows for storing up to eight customizable presets directly on the amp for quick access to favorite sounds. Perfect the tone with large, visible onboard controls for looper, EQ, gain, reverb, and more.
Designed for convenience, an optional rechargeable battery provides up to 12 hours of playtime for on-the-go sessions. The new double-thick strap and durable build ensure easy and secure transport. Spark 2 is also Bluetooth® ready, allowing for music streaming and jamming along with favorite tracks anytime, anywhere.
Multiple Outputs and Advanced Features
Spark 2 offers versatile connectivity with a headphone out for private practice, stereo line outs for external audio sources, and a USB-C port which enables it to function as an audio interface. WiFi-enabled, Spark 2 allows convenient over-the-air firmware updates, keeping the amp up to date with the latest features and improvements.
“I’ve used a ton of practice amps while touring the world for over 38 years and it was always just a technical, bland exercise,” says guitar virtuoso, singer-songwriter and producer Nuno Bettencourt. “Spark 2 is like taking Madison Square Garden wherever you go – epic and versatile.”
Color Options
Available in Pearl or Black finish with a dark weave grille and premium finish.
Special Event, Upgrade Pricing & Availability
Join the special live premiere event featuring Nuno Bettencourt and surprise guests on August 1, 2024, at 8:00 am PT/11:00 am ET. Visit positivegrid.com/pages/livestream for more details and to sign up for a reminder.
Regularly USD $299, Spark 2 will be available at special early bird pricing during the pre-order period. Registered Spark 40 owners can also receive exclusive upgrade pricing.
For more information and to sign up for pre-order alerts, visit positivegrid.com/products/spark-2.
A review of the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
Introduction: The Joyo Gloam is a sub-octave fuzz pedal specifically designed for bass players, combining modern sub-octave effects with rich fuzz tones. With two independently controlled circuits, the Gloam aims to provide a versatile range of sounds, from deep, aggressive fuzz to Moog-like synth effects. This review will explore the Gloam’s specifications, controls, and overall performance, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 130 * 110 * 50 mm
- Weight: 403g
- Working Voltage: DC 9V
- Controls: The Joyo Gloam features a comprehensive control set designed to provide bassists with a wide range of tonal options:
- Dry Tone: Adjusts the tone of the clean signal.
- Dry Volume: Controls the volume of the clean signal.
- Sub Octave Volume: Adjusts the volume of the sub octave signal.
- Gain: Controls the amount of gain in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz: Adjusts the intensity of the fuzz effect.
- Bass: Controls the bass frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Treble: Adjusts the treble frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz Mode Switch: Switches between two different fuzz modes.
- Dry Tone Frequency Switch: Selects between two different frequency points for the dry tone.
Performance: The Joyo Gloam excels in its dual-circuit design, offering both a sub octave and a fuzz channel that can be controlled individually. However, it’s important to note that the octaver cannot be used without the fuzz circuit activated; the only way to solo the octaver is by turning down the fuzz while both channels are engaged.
Fuzz Circuit: The fuzz circuit includes standard controls such as gain, volume, bass, and treble, along with a fuzz mode switch that toggles between two distinct fuzz modes. While one of the fuzz modes is highly usable and delivers a rich, aggressive tone, the other mode falls short and is less practical for most applications.
Octaver Circuit: The octaver circuit features controls for sub octave volume, clean volume, and clean tone, along with a dry tone frequency switch that provides two different frequency options. This allows for significant tonal versatility, enabling bassists to fine-tune their sound to match their preferences. Despite its limitation of being tied to the fuzz circuit, the octaver produces a deep, balanced sound that stands out.
Combined Effect: When used together, the fuzz and octaver circuits create a wide range of sounds, from classic, aggressive fuzz to synth-like tones reminiscent of a Moog synthesizer. This combination makes the Gloam a powerful tool for bassists seeking to experiment with their sound and achieve unique, textured tones.
Pros:
- Versatile Controls: Extensive control options for both fuzz and octaver circuits.
- Rich Tones: Delivers deep, aggressive fuzz and balanced octaver sounds.
- Sturdy Construction: Durable build quality ensures reliability.
- Wide Range of Sounds: Capable of producing everything from classic fuzz to synth-like effects.
Cons:
- Unusable Fuzz Mode: One of the fuzz modes is less practical.
- Dependent Octaver: Octaver cannot be used independently of the fuzz circuit.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Joyo Gloam sub-octave fuzz pedal offers a versatile and powerful option for bassists looking to expand their tonal palette. Despite some flaws, the Gloam delivers impressive sounds and flexibility. Its combination of rich fuzz and deep octaver tones, coupled with a sturdy construction, makes it a valuable addition to any bassist’s pedalboard. For those seeking a modern bass distortion with the added depth of sub-octave effects, the Joyo Gloam is a compelling choice for a very compelling price.
Visit online at joyoaudio.com/product/281.html
Check out our top 10 favorite basses on Instagram this week…
Click to follow Bass Musician on Instagram @bassmusicianmag
FEATURED @jermsbass @ramabass.ok @adamovicbasses @mgbassguitars @marleaux_bassguitars @overwaterbasses @mauriziouberbasses @elrickbasses @zemaitisguitars @sandbergguitars
Behind the Strings – Jim’s Corner…
D’Addario & Co. proudly announces the launch of “Jim’s Corner,” a captivating new YouTube series telling the 400-year-old story of the D’Addario family creating the world’s largest music accessories company. This series features Jim D’Addario, Founder and Director of Innovation at D’Addario and Co., sharing his family’s remarkable journey from 17th century Italy to a 21st century global enterprise.
In the first four episodes now available, Jim D’Addario takes viewers back to the beginning, making strings from animal guts and knotting ukulele wire as a family around the television. Countless generations carried the passion forward until the 1970s when the company made it official and never looked back. Jim recounts the creation of strings that inspired legendary riffs, including one by The Who, the launch of Darco strings, the merger with Martin Guitars and the company’s humble beginnings with his wife, Janet and brother, John. Jim D’Addario’s firsthand accounts provide an intimate and personal perspective on the milestones and challenges that shaped D’Addario into the revered brand it is today.
Episode Highlights:
- Episode 1: The Early Days in Italy and the Move to America
- Episode 2: Inspiring Iconic Riffs and Legendary Partnerships
- Episode 3: Launching Darco Strings and Merging with Martin Guitars
- Episode 4: Building the D’Addario and Co. Legacy
Watch & Subscribe Now:
Join us in celebrating this incredible legacy by watching the first four episodes of “Jim’s Corner” on YouTube. New episodes will drop every month so please subscribe to our channel to ensure you don’t miss any future episodes and exclusive content from D’Addario & Co.: www.youtube.com/@daddarioandco
Gear News
Gear News: Aguilar Amplification Unveils Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp
Aguilar Amplification announces the release of the Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp pedal. Hand serialized 1-100, this exclusive edition celebrates Aguilar’s deep roots in New York City with a tribute to its iconic landmarks and vibrant spirit.
Born in the heart of NYC and raised on the road, the Tone Hammer Preamp DI has been an indispensable tool for bassists seeking inspiring tone and versatility. The new Limited Edition Gold NYC builds on this legacy with striking custom graphics encapsulating the essence of New York City. Featuring iconic landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, this pedal is not just a tool, but a piece of art embodying the soul of the city. Each unit features a sharp platinum silkscreen over a stunning matte gold sparkle finish, that is as visually captivating as it is sonically powerful.
The Tone Hammer is an essential preamp/direct box for every bassist’s toolbox. The Tone Hammer features fully sweepable midrange frequencies in addition to bass and treble controls. With the Tone Hammer’s pristine D.I. players are set for either studio or stage. To give this tone shaping unit the ultimate flexibility we introduce our proprietary Adaptive Gain Shaping circuitry (AGS). AGS allows the player to kick in an additional gain structure and EQ with the “stomp” of a button. You can go from modern slap sounds to vintage or overdriven. 18-volt operation gives the Tone Hammer plenty of headroom to reproduce the most dynamic playing styles. Separate gain and master controls allow players to dial in just the right gain structure for any instrument.
Aguilar Amplification’s Jordan Cortese adds, “With only 100 hand-numbered units available, this third iteration of our NYC edition Tone Hammer is a collector’s dream. “It’s a homage to our city’s monumental influence on music and culture and celebrates the craftsmanship and the story of Aguilar”.
Street price: $299.99 For more information, please visit www.aguilaramp.com