Bass Lessons Melbourne 'player Profile' Podcast

Shem von Schroeck has been entertaining audiences since he was 3 years old. A veteran of the stage and recording studio, he has performed in all 50 United States and 54 countries around the world as a singer, multi-instrumentalist, and music director in a diverse range of genres. Currently the bassist and principal backing vocalist for the legendary band TOTO, Shem has additionally toured and recorded with several international and Grammy Award-winning artists, including Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, David Foster, Christopher Cross, Richard Marx, Don Felder (The Eagles), Al Stewart, Patti Austin, Stephen Stills, Tom Jones, Loggins & Messina, Gary Wright, Spooky Tooth, and many others. http://www.shemworks.com http://www.basslessonsmelbourne.com

I caught up with London bassist Pete Martin while he was in Melbourne touring with nu jazz keys sensation Kamaal Williams. We recorded this interview the morning after Williams sold out show at the Corner Hotel in Melbourne so despite the jet lag and road weariness Pete was super generous with his time and we get into some great dialogue about technique, Garry Willis, the current music industry, touring with Natasha Beddingfield, his early inspirations, his upcoming solo album and much more! http://www.basslessonsmelbourne.com

I caught up with Kevin while he was down under with FORQ and recorded this interview by his hotel pool. After 15 years on the Atlanta music scene, bassist Kevin Scott is expanding his musical and geographic reach. In the last year, he has toured and recorded with Jimmy Herring and John McLaughlin’s “Meeting of the Spirits,” Wayne Krantz, FORQ, and Matador Soul Sounds. Kevin’s creative spirit and instinctual, groove-driven playing have made him a must-have on many exciting and unique projects. Although his itinerary has him travelling more than ever with no signs of slowing, he remains a musical pillar in Atlanta, where he has been a member of multiple bands including Ruby Velle & The Soulphonics and King Baby, and hosts the long-standing Tuesday jam session at Elliot St. Pub; an improvised, no-holds-barred weekly summit of musicians from all genres and backgrounds. There is much to look forward to in 2018 and beyond…European tours with FORQ, Wayne Krantz, Matador!, and Donny McCaslin, U.S. and internatio

When I first saw what Jarman and Matty were doing in their band 'Men Imitating Machines' I was convinced there must be tracks running in the background, but then I found out their motto is 'Live as F***' and that everything you hear is being created in real time, live in front of you. I was fascinated to find out how Jarman was creating such epic subsonic landscapes with what looked to be a humble jazz bass, enter: The Industrial Radio Pro4. This incredible instrument built in Sydney is one of the finest Midi controller instruments I've ever come across and it was great to see how Jarman really pushes the boundaries with it. Check them out: http://menimitatingmachines.com/music-and-video/ http://industrialradio.com.au/

Tom Kennedy is an accomplished touring and studio musician who ranks as one of the top acoustic and electric bass players in the world. His credits include performances and recordings with both mainstream legends and leading contemporary players. Tom’s musical roots with on the acoustic bass, an instrument he started playing at age 9 and took to so naturally that within a few years he was performing with internationally known players such as Freddie Hubbard, James Moody, Nat Adderly, Sonny Stitt and Stan Kenton. Gaining a reputation that soon traveled beyond his native St. Louis, Tom relocated to New York City, where he quickly gained work with multiple groups. Further accolades came through a recording with guitar great Bill Connors and tours with tenor saxophonist Michael Brecker in the world-renowned jazz-fusion group Steps Ahead. Additional tours and recordings with Brazilian pianist Tania Maria and guitarist Al DiMeola followed. In 1998, Tom became an integral part of Modern Drummer hall of famer Dave

Born in South America (Chile), Igor Saavedra started playing bass at 22 years old. He's considered by the most prestigious critics as an ambassador of the authentic South American bass culture and one of the world's most innovative, respected, influential & virtuoso bassists, granting him as being a Pioneer of the 8-String Bass (since 1999) & one of the absolute Masters on the Extended Range Basses field. Well known for not using any knobs or effect/volume pedals, relying only on his hands for all the sound variations. Created the Mic Ramp & The Revolutionary VST right hand technique. He has performed solo concerts and Master Classes in Germany, UK, USA, Italy, Poland, Spain, Canada, Costa Rica, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, Chile & more. On 2011 was the 1st South American bassist to be featured at the Bass Player Live, the most prestigious US Bass Show, sharing the famous BPL All-Star Jam with the bassists for The Rolling Stones, Megadeth, Metallica, Chic Corea, Earth Wind &

Tim is a freelance bass player and music producer located in Sydney (and increasingly, Melbourne). A lover of all music, he cut his teeth playing soul and roots based music around Sydney in the early 2000s. He was mentored by the late bass player/composer Jackie Orszaczky, with whom he had the fortune of playing with in the the last few years of his life. Experienced in many fields and genres, he has performed, recorded and toured with some of the worlds most respected artists. International artists include pop singer Rita Ora (UK), Brooklyn MC Joey Bada$$ and Canadian troubadour Hawksley Workman. Locally he performs as both sideman and band member for Killing Heidi, Ross Wilson, Leah Flanagan, Tim Freedman and Radical Son. Previously he has performed with Old Man River, Ngaiire, Kevin Borich, The Whitlams, Mahalia Barnes, Adam Brand, The Hands, Jackie Orszaczky and Lachy Doley to name just a few. As a member of the houseband on ABCTV's The Sideshow, he backed a multitude of artists including Colin Hay,

Atlanta born and raised, Detoxxx honed his craft playing in the gospel churches of America's 'Bible Belt' and has since gone on to be a first call producer and session bassist in the RnB, Hip Hop and jazz/funk/soul scenes. Detoxxx was a joy to hang with while he was in town with Avery Sunshine, a gig in which he is able to showcase his deep pocket as well as ability to step into the limelight and bust out some seriously tasty chops! Follow him on Instagram @detoxxxmusic http://www.basslessonsmelbourne.com http://www.facebook.com/bassguitarlessonsmelbourne IG @basslessonsmelbourne

Marty Holoubek was born and raised in Adelaide, South Australia, where he spent his formative years studying in the prestigious Marryatville High School Special Interest Music Program. Joining the Elder Conservatorium at the University of Adelaide to further his musical education, Marty was awarded Mitzi’s prize for the ‘Top undergraduate bass student’ in 2010 and the following year he was awarded the ‘Most Outstanding Undergraduate Student’. Since his move to Melbourne he has had much professional experience performing and recording with celebrated international artists such as Leroy Jones, Chuck Findlay, Bobby Rydell, George Garzone, Dave Douglas, Kenny Werner, Elaine Paige and Liz Callaway as well as celebrated Australian artists James Morrison, Kate Ceberano, Scott Tinkler, Aaron Choulai, Emma Pask, Julien Wilson and Joseph O’Connor. Marty is a core member of the internationally acclaimed bands Sex on Toast and The Lagerphones as well as many other projects around Melbourne. http://www.basslessonsmelb

Joshua Crumbly is an incredibly talented young musician currently on tour with Kamasi Washington and also on the verge of launching his own solo career with the release of his debut album later on in 2018. It was great to hear about Joshua's bass journey which included lessons from previous BLM interviewee Reggie Hamilton among others. Check out Joshua's website for more info: http://joshuacrumbly.com/ I'm very happy to announce that this episode is brought to you in association with F Bass Handmade Guitars and BassFace Strings! F Bass have been hand making basses for 40 years and offer vintage inspired instruments as well our original modern fretted and fretless designs. http://www.fbass.com BassFace Strings bring quality Electric Bass strings and accessories into Australia to suit the working musician and are currently stocking Ken Smith Electric Bass strings. bassfacestrings@gmail.com. http://www.basslessonsmelbourne.com Please leave a comment and spread the word! http://www.facebook.com/bassguitarle

Fender artist Reggie Hamilton is a true giant of the session scene having toured and recorded with artists such as Seal, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, Aretha Franklin, Stanley Clarke and then there is is long list of film credits including Passenger 57. In this interview we discuss his beginnings on bass, how Stanley Clarke helped his career as well as the thinking behind his signature Fender bass and his involvement with the incredible REDDI. http://www.reggiehamilton.com I'm very happy to announce that this episode is brought to you in association with F Bass Handmade Guitars and BassFace Strings! F Bass have been hand making basses for 40 years and offer vintage inspired instruments as well our original modern fretted and fretless designs. http://www.fbass.com BassFace Strings bring quality Electric Bass strings and accessories into Australia to suit the working musician and are currently stocking Ken Smith Electric Bass strings. bassfacestrings@gmail.com. http://www.basslessonsmelbourne

Born and raised in Trinidad, Rick Leon James moved to London when he was 15yrs old to pursue his dream of becoming a professional bass player. Fast forward to 2018 and he's played bass for such UK pop acts as Jessie J, Daniel Beddingfield, Tinie Tempah and is currently touring the world with saxophonist Yolanda Brown. A player with incredible facility on the bass, Rick is now making a name for himself as a producer and as a solo artist. Check him out here: https://rickleonjames.com/ I'm very happy to announce that this episode is brought to you in association with F Bass Handmade Guitars and BassFace Strings! F Bass have been hand making basses for 40 years and offer vintage inspired instruments as well our original modern fretted and fretless designs. http://www.fbass.com BassFace Strings bring quality Electric Bass strings and accessories into Australia to suit the working musician and are currently stocking Ken Smith Electric Bass strings. bassfacestrings@gmail.com. http://www.basslessonsmelbourne.com

http://www.evanmarien.com Evan Marien is well known to bass players around the globe for his amazing youtube videos (including one of the first 360o videos I ever saw) featuring his fluid, melodic soloing, awesome use of fx and slick production values. However, he has built an enviable career as a side man playing for guitar gods such as Wayne Krantz and Allan Holdsworth. In this interview we discuss his early influences which include Nu Metal and Jaco, his association with Ken Smith Basses, some scale approaches and his blossoming solo career alongside drummer Dana Hawkins. I'm very happy to announce that this episode is brought to you in association with F Bass Handmade Guitars and BassFace Strings! F Bass have been hand making basses for 40 years and offer vintage inspired instruments as well our original modern fretted and fretless designs. http://www.fbass.com BassFace Strings bring quality Electric Bass strings and accessories into Australia to suit the working musician and are currently stocking K

Steve is a world renowned bass player. He has recorded 9 albums as bandleader and a further 6 albums as co-leader. He has recorded or toured with Billy Cobham, Chick Corea, Bobby Previte, Ulf Wakenius, James Muller, Carl Orr, Dig, Renee Geyer, Maxine Nightingale, Kate Ceberano, Doug Parkinson and many others. It was a real pleasure to sit down with Steve at his home in Sydney while I was up there for some gigs, unfortunately it was a little last minute so the audio isn't quite up to my usual standard and I apologise! Bandcamp: https://stevehunter.bandcamp.com/ Sponsors: http://www.fbass.com http://www.bassinyourface.com.au Me: http://www.basslessonsmelbourne.com

Phil Stack is a bass player of formidable prowess, having been a member of Aussie pop rock chart busters 'Thirsty Merc' for over 15yrs, Phil has toured the world and rocked some of the biggest stages around, however, he has also had a successful career as a bona fide jazz musician and most recently as an independent singer songwriter. In this episode we talk about Phil's bass journey, his passion for upright playing and his approach to playing Thirsty Merc repertoire 15yrs on. We also discuss how the changes in the music industry have affected his career and his current passion for solo, improvised double gigs and his new found love for piano and songwriting. Phil Stack Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/phil-stack/celebrate-life Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/phil.stack.1/ I'm very happy to announce that this episode is brought to you in association with F Bass Handmade Guitars and BassFace Strings! F Bass have been hand making basses for 40 years and offer vintage inspired instruments as well our origin

Cornell Williams is one of my favourite 'pocket' style players, in that his time, tone and taste (note choice) are pretty much perfect for the material he is performing, and on the odd occasion when he does step forward he is super lyrical yet still so funky! It was a real pleasure to get to hang and jam with Nell while he was in town with Jon Cleary, I even got to play THAT Modulus, what a bass! Remember to share, subscribe and drop a review for the podcast anywhere you see fit! http://www.basslessonsmelbourne.com

Jonathan Dimond is an incredibly accomplished musician, composer and educator based in Melbourne. Having studied Indian classical music to an extremely high level, his rhythmic understanding is exceptional, coupled with his formidable technical facility and knowledge of western classical and jazz music, Jonathan is a truly inspiring bass player. In this episode we discuss some of his practice methods using a kick drum pedal and a woodblock, his bass journey, studying in USA and India and much more. http://www.jonathandimond.com http://www.basslessonsmelbourne.com

Evripides Evripidou is one of those rare bass players that seems to be able to straddle opposing genres with ease and authenticity. Playing bass for such fusion giants and Virgil Donati, Dave Weckl and Frank Gambale would be enough to catapult any bass player into the history books, but Evri has neither rested on his laurels or adhered to the stereo types associated with such complex music and has continued to forge his own musical and dare I say spiritual path on the bass. It was a privilege to chat with Evri about his bass journey and his approach to improvisation, education and tone. Check out our jam here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcoXJ_NNFYo

Like myself, Drew Dedman is a self professed bass nerd and we get deep into a lot of topics in this interview like Drew's roots in speed and prog metal, his gigging philosophy, practice tips, his time with Melbourne Nu Metal kings Superheist, the current music industry climate and of course: bass gear! Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9pOCKhm9c8VhQbGFiBM5Ag Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drewdedmanbassplayer/ Drew Dedman the Electric Bassplayer Debut solo record "Made in Melbourne" out mid to late 2017 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drewdedmanbass/

Bass player, educator and luthier Neil Kennedy stopped by with a few examples from his stunning new line of basses soon to be released in conjunction with legendary Australian guitar company - Cole Clark. We discuss a range of bass building topics ranging from fingerboard radius, wood choice (including indigenous Australian woods), neck construction, bridge material etc etc; and we also hear about his bass journey and thoughts on technique and the science of bass building. Follow his work on FB: https://www.facebook.com/KennedyBasses/ BLM http://www.facebook.com/bassguitarlessonsmelbourne Insta: @basslessonsmelbourne