Bass Videos
X JAPAN: Music Documentary ‘We Are X’, Featuring Bassist HEATH, Accepted To SXSW Film Festival

X JAPAN (L-R): Pata (guitar), Heath (bass), Yoshiki (composer, drums, piano), Toshi (vocals) and Sugizo (violin, guitar).
X JAPAN: Music Documentary ‘We Are X’, Featuring Bassist HEATH, Accepted To SXSW Film Festival…
The new music documentary on the Japanese rock group X JAPAN titled ‘WE ARE X’—from Passion Pictures—has been accepted to the SXSW Film Festival happening March 11-19 in Austin, TX. The documentary will be shown as part of SXSW Film Festival’s “24 Beats Per Second” which showcases the sounds, culture and influence of music and musicians with an emphasis on documentary and is open to both music and film badgeholders. ‘WE ARE X’ is the only documentary accepted to both the SXSW and Sundance Film Festivals this year.
WE ARE X produced by two-time Academy Award winner John Battsek (Searching For Sugarman, Listen To Me Marlon) and directed by Stephen Kijak (Stones In Exile, Scott Walker: 30th Century Man) which won the Special Jury Award for “Best Editing”at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival Awards (Jan. 20) in Park City, UT.The film, edited by Mako Kamitsuna and John Maringuoin and assisted by June Okada, earned rousing ovations during its six Sundance screenings throughout the week.
‘WE ARE X’ explores the evolution, groundbreaking history and hopeful future of the land of the rising sun’s most legendary rock group. From X JAPAN’s massive success (over 30 million albums, singles and videos sold) and sold-out tours worldwide, ‘WE ARE X’ chronicles the triumphs and tragedies of this legendary quintet who will never give up and continue to tour the world performing sold-out shows to massive arenas in 16 countries throughout the U.S. and Europe.
Following the world premiere screening Sundance, YOSHIKI–songwriter, drummer, classically-trained pianist and the creative leader of X JAPAN–stated, “The dark doors I had closed from my past became an entrance to the future. If there wasn’t music and the band members would not have been there, it’s clear I would not be here today.”
During Sundance week, YOSHIKI thrilled audiences performing at live venues including the official Sundance Festival Base Camp and the ASCAP Cafe playing classical versions of X JAPAN’s songs with a string quartet.Following the’WE ARE X‘ film premiere, Chef Dance hosted a dinner honoring the film prepared by Los Angeles-based chef Louis Tikaram (of EP & LP). The Chef Dance dinner and party featured guests including actors Octavia Spencer, Donovan Leitch and Julliette Lewis along with singers Josh Groban and Keb’ Mo alongside industry luminaries.DJ/Producer Balthazar Getty and EDM pioneer DJ Paul Oakenfold entertained guests for the official after party.
Japan’s most iconic rock band, X JAPAN initially split up in 1997 after playing their fifth New Year’s Eve show at the 55,000-capacity Tokyo Dome;theyhave now sold out the Tokyo Dome a record 18 times. The group reformed in 2007 and have released three singles: “I.V.” in 2008, “Jade” in 2011 and “Born To Be Free” in late 2015. They’ve been touring worldwide ever since and in October 2014, the group performed their debut Madison Square Garden show in New York before announcing the new album and ‘WE ARE X’ film releases slated for 2016.
X JAPAN—YOSHIKI (drums/piano/composer), TOSHI (vocals), PATA (guitar), HEATH (bass), SUGIZO (violin/guitar) alongside their fallen brothers HIDE (guitars, 1987-1997) and TAIJI (1986-1992)–are currently laying down tracks in a Los Angeles studio for their as-yet-untitled album, which is due for a worldwide release in late 2016.
Visit online:
- www.Yoshiki.net
- Like Yoshiki on Facebook
- Follow @yoshikiofficial on Twitter
- Follow @yoshikiofficial on Instagram
- www.Xjapanmusic.com
- Like X Japan on Facebook
- Follow @xjapanofficial on Twitter
- Subscribe to X Japan on Youtube
- www.wearexfilm.com
- www.facebook.com/wearexfilm
Bass CDs
New Music: Oteil Burbridge & Lamar Williams Jr. New Single, Hush
Oteil Burbridge & Lamar Williams Jr. Champion Love Over Hate in New Single “Hush” | New Album ‘The Offering’ Out May 1.
Bassist Oteil Burbridge and vocalist Lamar Williams Jr. continue the rollout of their forthcoming collaborative album The Offering, with the release of its second single, “Hush”. A slow-burning Southern soul meditation rooted in love, peace, and emotional clarity, the track is a centerpiece on the album with a potent, thematic statement, in Williams’ words to “block out all of that nonsense” and “remember that there is more love in the world than hate.” The full-length album arrives May 1 via Flóki Studios, recorded on Iceland’s northern coast and produced by drummer, engineer, and Soulive co-founder Alan Evans.
While much of The Offering grew out of Burbridge’s banjo-based writing, “Hush” emerged from he and Williams’ shaping a deliberate sonic vision. Burbridge says they were “trying to capture a more old school Memphis, Macon, Muscle Shoals vibe,” leaning into a Southern soul feel that fits Williams’s phrasing. The end result is a song that is unhurried with a deep pocket that allows the groove and the song’s message breathe and stand at the forefront.
The album features an all-star lineup of drummer John Morgan Kimock, percussionist Weedie Braimah, organist Melvin Seals of the Jerry Garcia Band, pianist and violinist Jason Crosby, guitarists Tom Guarna and Jaden Lehman — musicians whose overlapping histories connect the Allman Brothers Band, Dead & Company, the Jerry Garcia Band, Soulive, and West African percussion traditions.
CONNECT WITH OTEIL BURBRIDGE
Website // YouTube // Instagram // Facebook
Bass Videos
Interview With Bassist Virginia Franks
When I heard that American Vanity, formerly known as Burn the Jukebox, was gearing up to release a new album this summer, it felt like the perfect moment to catch up with bassist and vocalist Virginia Franks.
With a fresh name unveiled just this past January and a clear shift in musical direction, the band is entering an exciting new chapter, one defined by both sonic evolution and a deeper, more focused message.
In this conversation, Virginia opens up about the inspiration behind the upcoming record, how she crafts her distinctive bass tone, what fans can expect from their upcoming tour, and where she sees both herself and the band heading next.
Join me as we dive into it all.
Here is Virginia Franks.
Photo, Devin Kasparian
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Bass Videos
Nathan East, Echoes of a Lineage – April/May 2026 Issue
For decades, we’ve had the privilege of following the remarkable career of Nathan East, listening closely to his albums, tracking his milestones with Yamaha Instruments, and watching his evolving partnership with Laney Amplification with great interest. Along the way, we’ve talked gear, tone, and technique, while hearing his unmistakable musical “voice” woven into the work of more iconic artists than we could possibly list.

Today, we’re thrilled to reconnect with this true giant of the bass world following the release of a very special new album, Father Son, produced by Nathan alongside his son, Noah East. It’s a deeply personal project that showcases not only extraordinary musicianship but also a powerful family bond.
Join us as we dive into the making of this outstanding record, explore the new Laney Nathan East Signature Bass Preamp, and look ahead to what the future holds for one of music’s most respected and influential bassists.
Here is the one and only… Mr. Nathan East.
Photos, John Abbott @johnabbottphoto
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www.NathanEast.com
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Bass Videos
Gear Review: Italia Leather Straps
Disclaimer: This bass strap was kindly provided by Italia Leather Straps 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.
I’ve spent years searching for the perfect wide bass strap, something that delivers both comfort and durability without compromising on style. That search ended nearly two decades ago when I discovered Italia Leather Straps.
Handcrafted in the USA from premium Italian leather, Italia Straps offers an impressive range of straps for both bass and guitar players. What immediately stood out to me was the exceptional craftsmanship; every detail, from stitching to material selection, reflects a commitment to quality. These aren’t just accessories… they’re long-term investments for serious musicians.
After more than 19 years of consistent use with my original strap, I can confidently speak to its longevity and comfort. Even under the demands of extended performances, the support provided by a 4” wide strap makes a noticeable difference.
In this review, I’m taking a closer look at the 4” Elite Series Leather Backed Bass Strap, now available in a sleek new Slate Black finish. It’s a refined addition to an already outstanding lineup, combining aesthetic appeal with the same trusted performance.
For more information, visit www.italiastraps.com.
Bass Videos
Interview With Bassist Tom Doyle
Since 2012, Tom Doyle has been holding down the low end for UK alt-rock heavyweights Don Broco, helping to shape the band’s groove-driven, genre-blurring sound into one of the most distinctive in modern British rock. With thunderous tone, razor-sharp precision, and an instinct for hooks that hit just as hard as the riffs, Doyle has become a crucial force behind the band’s ever-evolving sonic identity.
As Don Broco gear up to unleash their highly anticipated new album, Nightmare Tripping, this feels like the perfect moment to dive into the mind of the man anchoring the chaos. From his musical roots and influences to the gear and techniques that craft his signature sound, Doyle opens up about the journey so far and what lies ahead.
Join me as we explore Tom’s evolution as a musician, the creative process behind Nightmare Tripping, and his vision for the future in a band that refuses to stand still.
Here is Tom Doyle.
Photos by Ton Pullen
