Bass DVDs
Hiromi Uehara – Live In Concert and Hiromi’s Sonicbloom: Live In Concert
Meet Tim Seiser –
Hiromi Uehara is one of the leading voices on the jazz/fusion music scene today. Her trio, featuring Tony Grey on bass and Martin Valihora on drums, has been working together for about 5 years now and it shows in their high level of communication and interplay thru Hiromi’s music. This level of band cohesiveness is on full display in both of Hirmoi’s two new DVD releases,
“Hiromi: Live In Concert” and “Hiromi’s Sonicbloom: Live In Concert”.
The first of these new DVD’s I watched, “Hiromi’s Sonicbloom: Live In Concert”, is the aforementioned trio performing with guest guitarist David Fiuczynski. The majority of the songs from this live performance are from Hiromi’s 2007 album entitled “Time Control”. I own “Time Control” and had it in pretty heavy listening rotation last summer, so I was very excited to see what a live performance of the material would entail. The compositions and arrangements closely resemble the album versions but there is much more risk taking and room for interplay amongst the group during the solo sections and free form improvisation sections. The biggest surprise for me in watching this DVD was the guitar playing by Fiuczynski. I will admit that when I first heard the album, I was not the biggest fan of his playing. However, after watching this DVD, it is clear that Fiuczynski is the real deal. His soloing is always explorative and original, yet always in the pocket and grooving. Tony and Martin are as tight of a bass player/drummer combo I have heard. Hiromi gives Tony ample solo time and he always makes the most of it, showcasing his unique solo voice. The fifth and sixth songs on the DVD, “Note from the Past” and “Double Personality” are not performed on “Time Control” but keep within the same vibe and overall feel. It was definitely a treat for me as a listener to hear this new material. Next, the program returns back to “Time Control” material with the hard grooving song “Time Out” (my favorite cut from the album). The band is in top form by this point in the concert and is obviously enjoying playing with each other. Fiuczynski even manages to get the notoriously uptight Japanese audience up out of their seats and dancing. The encore is a classic Hiromi tune entitled “Return of the Kung-Fu World Champion”. Originally performed by the trio, this song also greatly benefits from the addition of the guitar. This concert is fusion at it’s best; creative solos, in depth compositions, plenty of energy and four extremely talented musicians equally sharing the spotlight.
The second of the two DVD’s, “Hiromi: Live In Concert”, features the trio on it’s own. This concert features material from Hiromi’s CD “Spiral”. The performance takes on a much different tone from the “Time Control” concert. The band is a little more subdued and the overall feel is more like a classical music performance than a raucous jazz/fusion concert. The band doesn’t waste anytime though, getting right into some interesting interplay with the title track from the CD “Spiral”. The trio setting really gives Tony a chance to shine, both in the sideman role and in more of a leader/soloist role. The second and third tunes more or less share the same feel, sound and structure as many of Hiromi’s other compositions and are not the bands strongest numbers of the night. However, once the band launches into the epic “Music for Three Piece Orchestra” it is obvious they are warmed up and in peak form. This is the highlight of the this concert and it is nothing short of mesmerizing to watch these three musicians perform this extremely challenging music flawlessly. The band nails all four sections of “Music for Three Piece Orchestra” and proves to the listener that these are some of the most talented young musicians around today. For the final regular performance of the night the band plays “Love and Laughter”, another grooving tune with the now very distinct Hiromi touch. Just when you think the night is over, they launch into an encore; a blazing Latin version of “Dancando No Paraiso”. It is an appropriate way to end a very riveting concert.
Both of these concerts are filmed very tastefully and the camera work is stellar. The audio seems to be a little on the quite side and really seems to shine thru an external speaker system or a good pair of headphones as opposed to computer speakers.
Hiromi’s trio has seemed to defy the traditional viewpoint that fusion bands cannot work consistently and do not play to large audiences. Both of these concerts are played to sold-out Japanese audiences in huge performance venues. As I mentioned before, this band has been working as a unit for quite awhile now and it really shows on both of these DVD’s. For anybody looking to check out some gripping jazz/fusion, I highly suggest checking out one, or both, of these DVD’s. The musicianship is always showcased maturely and tastefully. The music never dives into the usual fusion “chops-fest” showcase and the compositions are always interesting and at many points, awe inspiring.
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.
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