Hello,
Sorry for the delay in posting. Life has gotten busy.
GIGS
'RENT' has closed. It was a fun run. The people were great, the company was nice, and the pay was very nice. I'd like to play this show again, the idea of doing a national tour of it would be very appealing.
I have been contracted to play for my old university. I will be playing their production of 'Jacques Brelis". This will be fun.
GEAR
Gear wise-I bought the MXR M288 for 'Rent'. It ended up working perfectly. I liked the variety of octave tones the unit allowed. When I need another pedal, I'm going to check out what MXR has to offer.
I just ordered a new toy this afternoon. It will be a SansAmp Bass Driver Deluxe from the guys at ThePerfectBass.com . 'Jacques Brelis' is a doubling gig and I wanted to redo my switching setup. Instead of using an ABY box + external preamp + volume pedal, it'll just be this stomp box/preamp.
The unit features 2 channels with 3 tones per channel. The tones are user programmable. This is a major benefit to me. I see myself programming the electric tones as: clean, slap (w/a bit of a volume drop), and a rock/slightly driven tone. The upright tones will be: pizz, arco, and a hybrid.
I am a big fan of Tech 21 NYC/SansAmp gear. In my old rack rig I use an RBI & an RPM. Those are two pres are the reason why I felt like this Bass Driver Deluxe would be a perfect fit for me. I know I can get the sounds I want out of SansAmp gear, add in that I even out the volume between the basses, and switch with the same unit? Sold.
all the best.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Mid September
Greetings everyone,
I had a lag in gigs. So here's what I'm up to....
Rent
Rehearsals have started for the production that I am playing for. The music director is the piano player in my trio. The pit is great. I've wanted to play this show since high school & I have the chance to now!! Book wise-there are a few unfamiliar parts, but they are quickly being learned. I have a few page turns that don't particularly like me, so I'm figuring out a way to eliminate them. More than likely, I'm going to make copies of a few pages & tape them together, so that my book has 2 page free "expansion".
Gear for Rent
The gear that I am using for this production is the same as what I used for Evita with 3 additions. The additions are 3 pedals. The book is written with chorus & octave divider. I'm also using a volume pedal to pull back the volume on some pick & slap parts.
The specific pedals I'm using are:
Ernie Ball 6166 Volume Pedal-a big hunk of steel that I bought in 2002. Really simple pedal, it's a volume pot controlled via pedal. It also features an internal dip switch that allows you to change the throw/taper ever so slightly. I don't notice much of a difference. The quality and construction of this pedal is what you'd expect about of Ernie Ball. I'm confident that you could drop this pedal from the catwalk of a theater and it would still work...probably without a scratch.
Danelectro Milkshake Chorus- This is my oldest pedal. I bought it while I was in middle school. I want to say in 1998 or 1999. I'm using this pedal for the chorus parts as well as the fretless parts. On the recording, the fretless bass sounds really shimmery, yet there aren't that many songs that call for it. So instead of bringing another bass for a small pit, I'm just using the pedal. The settings that I am using are: speed minimum and depth maximum. It's a really subtle effect...adds a bit of shimmer to the sound without being too distracting. Construction wise-it's decent. It's all plastic and the only issue I have is that the switch doesn't have a defined feel to it. It's like you're pressing an elevator button. It works & sounds good though, so I'm not spending money on a new one just yet.
MXR M-288 Bass Octave Deluxe-I just bought this pedal for this production. I have not used an octave pedal prior to this show. Construction is great. It's all metal. It sounds good, was a nice price, and feels like it will last a long time. I'll be writing an indepth review within a week or two.
I'm still playing Slams. Not a whole lot else is going on.
all the best.
I had a lag in gigs. So here's what I'm up to....
Rent
Rehearsals have started for the production that I am playing for. The music director is the piano player in my trio. The pit is great. I've wanted to play this show since high school & I have the chance to now!! Book wise-there are a few unfamiliar parts, but they are quickly being learned. I have a few page turns that don't particularly like me, so I'm figuring out a way to eliminate them. More than likely, I'm going to make copies of a few pages & tape them together, so that my book has 2 page free "expansion".
Gear for Rent
The gear that I am using for this production is the same as what I used for Evita with 3 additions. The additions are 3 pedals. The book is written with chorus & octave divider. I'm also using a volume pedal to pull back the volume on some pick & slap parts.
The specific pedals I'm using are:
Ernie Ball 6166 Volume Pedal-a big hunk of steel that I bought in 2002. Really simple pedal, it's a volume pot controlled via pedal. It also features an internal dip switch that allows you to change the throw/taper ever so slightly. I don't notice much of a difference. The quality and construction of this pedal is what you'd expect about of Ernie Ball. I'm confident that you could drop this pedal from the catwalk of a theater and it would still work...probably without a scratch.
Danelectro Milkshake Chorus- This is my oldest pedal. I bought it while I was in middle school. I want to say in 1998 or 1999. I'm using this pedal for the chorus parts as well as the fretless parts. On the recording, the fretless bass sounds really shimmery, yet there aren't that many songs that call for it. So instead of bringing another bass for a small pit, I'm just using the pedal. The settings that I am using are: speed minimum and depth maximum. It's a really subtle effect...adds a bit of shimmer to the sound without being too distracting. Construction wise-it's decent. It's all plastic and the only issue I have is that the switch doesn't have a defined feel to it. It's like you're pressing an elevator button. It works & sounds good though, so I'm not spending money on a new one just yet.
MXR M-288 Bass Octave Deluxe-I just bought this pedal for this production. I have not used an octave pedal prior to this show. Construction is great. It's all metal. It sounds good, was a nice price, and feels like it will last a long time. I'll be writing an indepth review within a week or two.
I'm still playing Slams. Not a whole lot else is going on.
all the best.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Long time no post
So, it's been awhile. I haven't been playing too many gigs, so I'll update from the past and then give the update for the future...
Past
I've continued playing Slams. It's my favorite gig-extremely relaxed, the people are great, and it pays well. I have no complaints.
I played for Circle Theatre's Emerging Young Artist's production of Disney's High School Musical 2. This was fun. It was a 2 week run, the book was good for the most part. Some of the tunes, I wasn't overly fond of, but hey-it's theater. I love playing it.
The more electric shows I do, the more I'm paying attention to how the time period they were written influences the writing/orchestration. For example, Evita-the show was written when the 4 string bass was the most prevalent and there weren't any Sub E notes written. We added some for the production I was playing (i'd often on sustained chords add a sub double). However, on High School Musical & High School Musical 2-the lower notes are actually written in the part.
Future
I signed on to play a production of "Rent" with Big Noise Theater company. It should be fun. I don't have the book yet, but I'm excited.
I'm also playing more Slams...I plan on doing this gig until they don't want us anymore.
I'm doing a 1 off gig back in Indiana. I'll be playing with Spanton this Saturday. Playing a mix of covers & originals written by David. Should be fun.
Past
I've continued playing Slams. It's my favorite gig-extremely relaxed, the people are great, and it pays well. I have no complaints.
I played for Circle Theatre's Emerging Young Artist's production of Disney's High School Musical 2. This was fun. It was a 2 week run, the book was good for the most part. Some of the tunes, I wasn't overly fond of, but hey-it's theater. I love playing it.
The more electric shows I do, the more I'm paying attention to how the time period they were written influences the writing/orchestration. For example, Evita-the show was written when the 4 string bass was the most prevalent and there weren't any Sub E notes written. We added some for the production I was playing (i'd often on sustained chords add a sub double). However, on High School Musical & High School Musical 2-the lower notes are actually written in the part.
Future
I signed on to play a production of "Rent" with Big Noise Theater company. It should be fun. I don't have the book yet, but I'm excited.
I'm also playing more Slams...I plan on doing this gig until they don't want us anymore.
I'm doing a 1 off gig back in Indiana. I'll be playing with Spanton this Saturday. Playing a mix of covers & originals written by David. Should be fun.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Late June/Early July
Greetings and salutations!!
In my last post, the outlook was pretty grim. Now, all is good in my kingdom! I have secured a new day job. I'll be working for Kmart Monday-Thursday nights. Yes, Kmart. A company that is stable, cares about customer service, and isn't difficult to get to...and they were hiring. They were really really flexible and understanding with my schedule. I have a schedule block in place so that I can continue to play gigs Friday-Sunday nights...I can't work after 4PM those days. This gives me enough time to get home to Rogers Park and head to where ever I'm going...and get there by about 6PM [seems like i can get nearly anywhere in the city in about an hour]. This makes me extremely happy as it means that I don't have to move in with my sister in Indy, I greatly appreciate her offer and I think it would be fun for a short term thing, but I love Chicago.
Gigs
Not a whole lot on the horizon. Cam's Tie is playing 1 Slam in July and 2 Slams in August. I don't have another theater gig lined up. It appears that my teaching studio is going to start up again soon though-I've had interest from two potential students.
I'm also in the early stages of forming another band. Ever since I studied with Tom Mendel in 2006, I've wanted to form a Motown/Funk/Soul band playing Detroit's music from the 60's & 70's. From Marvin Gaye to Sly & The Family Stone to James Brown to Stevie Wonder. So, I'm starting to arrange some charts, find players, and give this a shot. The band will be white guys from the Midwest playing Detroit's music. Yeah, I'm NOT ruling out using black or other minorities, it's just-most of the cats I've played with are typically middle classish white guys...in the Midwest. I'll be leading this band from the bass chair. I'll also be the principle arranger, booking agent, band manager, etc. All that I want from my players is to show up, play their best, and leave. Not a democracy, a much more friendly dictatorship. I'm taking my time with the players-I want to get the best cats for the job even if it means NOT using some of my friends. This is a business that is fun, not fun that is a business.
More to come as I figure stuff out.
all the best.
In my last post, the outlook was pretty grim. Now, all is good in my kingdom! I have secured a new day job. I'll be working for Kmart Monday-Thursday nights. Yes, Kmart. A company that is stable, cares about customer service, and isn't difficult to get to...and they were hiring. They were really really flexible and understanding with my schedule. I have a schedule block in place so that I can continue to play gigs Friday-Sunday nights...I can't work after 4PM those days. This gives me enough time to get home to Rogers Park and head to where ever I'm going...and get there by about 6PM [seems like i can get nearly anywhere in the city in about an hour]. This makes me extremely happy as it means that I don't have to move in with my sister in Indy, I greatly appreciate her offer and I think it would be fun for a short term thing, but I love Chicago.
Gigs
Not a whole lot on the horizon. Cam's Tie is playing 1 Slam in July and 2 Slams in August. I don't have another theater gig lined up. It appears that my teaching studio is going to start up again soon though-I've had interest from two potential students.
I'm also in the early stages of forming another band. Ever since I studied with Tom Mendel in 2006, I've wanted to form a Motown/Funk/Soul band playing Detroit's music from the 60's & 70's. From Marvin Gaye to Sly & The Family Stone to James Brown to Stevie Wonder. So, I'm starting to arrange some charts, find players, and give this a shot. The band will be white guys from the Midwest playing Detroit's music. Yeah, I'm NOT ruling out using black or other minorities, it's just-most of the cats I've played with are typically middle classish white guys...in the Midwest. I'll be leading this band from the bass chair. I'll also be the principle arranger, booking agent, band manager, etc. All that I want from my players is to show up, play their best, and leave. Not a democracy, a much more friendly dictatorship. I'm taking my time with the players-I want to get the best cats for the job even if it means NOT using some of my friends. This is a business that is fun, not fun that is a business.
More to come as I figure stuff out.
all the best.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Mid-Late June
Greetings my loyal followers....
Evita is in the final shows. We had a sing through tonight as a refresher for the last 4 shows. We're doing Friday & Saturday shows the next two weeks. It should be fun. It'll be weird not playing this show anymore, but hey. The show picked up either 6 or 8 Jeff Awards including Best Musical Non-Equity, Best Music Director, and then a few best actors awards. Pretty hip.
Cam's Tie at the Slam. Cam's Tie is still going strong. Scottie is subbing out Sunday the 21st, so I thought what better time than to bring in a buddy from Lafayette? Yep. The drummer that I played with all the time in high school had just moved up to Chicago, so it seemed like the perfect time to have him join me on his first Chicago pro gig. His name is Tanner Lee. We played for nearly everything at Jeff High School together. I'm looking forward to it. If things go well, he'll be my top choice sub for when Scott is unavailable. A part of it is, I'm excited to see how it feels after the few years it's been since we played together last. Add in that this environment is about as relaxed as you can get, it pays well, and it's at the GREEN MILL.
Side tangent about the rest of life...
I'm looking for a new day job. I have 3 shifts left. If i don't find something new, I'll be moving to Indy for a while. I'm hoping for less than 3 months. I don't want to lose what I have here in Chicago by moving to Indiana for much time. It'll cost me a bit of green to make the Mill gigs, but I think it'd be worth it. Instead of doing 3 Sundays a month, we'd probably just do 2 a month. It's a bit of a drive to be making at 10PM. Ok, it's a bit of a drive because I'm a horrible driver that has been thrilled to NOT drive much the past 4 years. I'm vastly more comfortable getting on a bus or train and just remembering to get off at a given stop. Yeah, it's not not the same as being able to leave whenever I want and not carry gear. However, I'll take walking 6 blocks with my DB w/it's wheel, an amp on a cart, and 2 electric basses in a back pack gig bag while going down stairs. Why? Because I don't have to screw with cars and driving. $86 for unlimited rides on the CTA. I couldn't park for that much.
So, if any of my readers know of any places that are hiring, let me know-please. I've been using: CarrerBuilder.com, Monster.com, Yahoo Hot Jobs, Craigs List, and SnagaJob.com, in addition to walking around looking for "Help Wanted" signs. I have extensive retail experience-7 years and I can work a flexible schedule. The only times that i can't work are: Sundays after 4PM and for a chunk of the year I play shows on Friday & Saturday nights.
all the best.
Evita is in the final shows. We had a sing through tonight as a refresher for the last 4 shows. We're doing Friday & Saturday shows the next two weeks. It should be fun. It'll be weird not playing this show anymore, but hey. The show picked up either 6 or 8 Jeff Awards including Best Musical Non-Equity, Best Music Director, and then a few best actors awards. Pretty hip.
Cam's Tie at the Slam. Cam's Tie is still going strong. Scottie is subbing out Sunday the 21st, so I thought what better time than to bring in a buddy from Lafayette? Yep. The drummer that I played with all the time in high school had just moved up to Chicago, so it seemed like the perfect time to have him join me on his first Chicago pro gig. His name is Tanner Lee. We played for nearly everything at Jeff High School together. I'm looking forward to it. If things go well, he'll be my top choice sub for when Scott is unavailable. A part of it is, I'm excited to see how it feels after the few years it's been since we played together last. Add in that this environment is about as relaxed as you can get, it pays well, and it's at the GREEN MILL.
Side tangent about the rest of life...
I'm looking for a new day job. I have 3 shifts left. If i don't find something new, I'll be moving to Indy for a while. I'm hoping for less than 3 months. I don't want to lose what I have here in Chicago by moving to Indiana for much time. It'll cost me a bit of green to make the Mill gigs, but I think it'd be worth it. Instead of doing 3 Sundays a month, we'd probably just do 2 a month. It's a bit of a drive to be making at 10PM. Ok, it's a bit of a drive because I'm a horrible driver that has been thrilled to NOT drive much the past 4 years. I'm vastly more comfortable getting on a bus or train and just remembering to get off at a given stop. Yeah, it's not not the same as being able to leave whenever I want and not carry gear. However, I'll take walking 6 blocks with my DB w/it's wheel, an amp on a cart, and 2 electric basses in a back pack gig bag while going down stairs. Why? Because I don't have to screw with cars and driving. $86 for unlimited rides on the CTA. I couldn't park for that much.
So, if any of my readers know of any places that are hiring, let me know-please. I've been using: CarrerBuilder.com, Monster.com, Yahoo Hot Jobs, Craigs List, and SnagaJob.com, in addition to walking around looking for "Help Wanted" signs. I have extensive retail experience-7 years and I can work a flexible schedule. The only times that i can't work are: Sundays after 4PM and for a chunk of the year I play shows on Friday & Saturday nights.
all the best.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Cam's Tie in NY Times!!
Greetings,
Cam's Tie in the NY Times print and web!
Ok, so we're not named, but we're in the pictures and audio. If go click on this link Cam's Tie in NY Times you can view the page. Once you're there, the audio on the audio slideshow & backing the poets is us. Hip eh?
Evita
We're doing the 4 more shows. June 19th, 20th, 26th, & 27th. I'm a little dissapointed that we're only doing 4 more shows, but eh. I'm partially motivated by ::gasp:: money. Yeah, I lose my day job by the end of this month & I don't have anything lined up beyond Slams. It's been a fun run and a great experience.
Cam's Tie in June
We're playing the 7th, 14th, and 21st backing the Uptown Poetry Slam at the Green Mill. Preshow music starts about 6:45PM, $6 cover, 21+. This is my favorite gig. It's a relaxed atmosphere, totally improvised, and the venue is killer. The people at the Green Mill are amazing-from the bartenders & waitresses to the poets and patrons.
all the best.
Cam's Tie in the NY Times print and web!
Ok, so we're not named, but we're in the pictures and audio. If go click on this link Cam's Tie in NY Times you can view the page. Once you're there, the audio on the audio slideshow & backing the poets is us. Hip eh?
Evita
We're doing the 4 more shows. June 19th, 20th, 26th, & 27th. I'm a little dissapointed that we're only doing 4 more shows, but eh. I'm partially motivated by ::gasp:: money. Yeah, I lose my day job by the end of this month & I don't have anything lined up beyond Slams. It's been a fun run and a great experience.
Cam's Tie in June
We're playing the 7th, 14th, and 21st backing the Uptown Poetry Slam at the Green Mill. Preshow music starts about 6:45PM, $6 cover, 21+. This is my favorite gig. It's a relaxed atmosphere, totally improvised, and the venue is killer. The people at the Green Mill are amazing-from the bartenders & waitresses to the poets and patrons.
all the best.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
More Gigs
My apologies for the lack of posts lately.
So here's the update on gigs......
Evita was extended through May. It's been fun. They're trying to get us 4 more dates in June. This would be great for me as I lose my day job by June 20th. The show has been fun. I've been subbing out of most Sundays as Cam's Tie is taking off.
Cam's Tie is now playing 3 Slams a month on average. Marc Smith (SO WHAT) likes the group. The people seem to like it too. I'm having a blast!! Showing up, play improvised music behind poets, have a few beers, get paid. What's not to love? This past Sunday, Cam's Tie shared the bill with The Weird Sisters!!
That is significant because subbing in with The Weird Sisters is how Cam's Tie came into being. Oh yes, it was the birth of the gig. Bonnie had asked me to sub in for their regular bassist, Al. Marc seemed to like me and he asked me to put together a trio. That was on October 26th. Cam's Tie has been playing 2-3 Slams a month ever since. Not bad for a music school drop/transfer out eh?
So here's the update on gigs......
Evita was extended through May. It's been fun. They're trying to get us 4 more dates in June. This would be great for me as I lose my day job by June 20th. The show has been fun. I've been subbing out of most Sundays as Cam's Tie is taking off.
Cam's Tie is now playing 3 Slams a month on average. Marc Smith (SO WHAT) likes the group. The people seem to like it too. I'm having a blast!! Showing up, play improvised music behind poets, have a few beers, get paid. What's not to love? This past Sunday, Cam's Tie shared the bill with The Weird Sisters!!
That is significant because subbing in with The Weird Sisters is how Cam's Tie came into being. Oh yes, it was the birth of the gig. Bonnie had asked me to sub in for their regular bassist, Al. Marc seemed to like me and he asked me to put together a trio. That was on October 26th. Cam's Tie has been playing 2-3 Slams a month ever since. Not bad for a music school drop/transfer out eh?
Friday, April 17, 2009
Evita + Gear Review
Hello,
Evita, is in the final regularly scheduled weekend!! I'm subbing out of the last night, April 19th, to play a Slam. The run has been a blast thus far. We have an extension to run through the end of May...hopefully longer. Some of the cast and band will be changing. Kevin Brown, will be leaving us due to another contract and the new drummer will be awesome. The music director, Ryan, will be subbing out of a few dates as well. I'm sticking with the run....and will be subbing out for some Slams. Not going to lie, the Slams are a blast and they pay a lot better. In a typical night playing the Slam, I make double what I do playing Evita in a given evening. Evita is a lot of fun and pays well for the weekend...just not as much on a night.
Gear Review Tascam MP BT1
So this is my first formal [if i can call it that] gear review. I bought this little machine the first week of March and I've been playing with it since.
Some background, it's an MP3 Bass Trainer. What is a trainer? It's a headphone amp + music player in one. It features effects, metronome, tuner, and some fun software. The software allows you to slow down a song without changing pitch, transpose a song without changing tempo, cut the bass track, loop sections, and a variety of similar functions.
Now that I've had it for a bit, I love this thing. The metronome & slow down functions are great. The metronome isn't as feature laden as my Korg MA30, but it's adequate. You can't put in subdivisions or anything like that, you get to pick how many beats, and tempo. I used this to learn Sir Duke by Stevie Wonder & What is Hip by Tower of Power. Two tunes that previously I considered "landmarks'...where i knew my playing was at a great point when i could play those cleanly and with power. This device was also great for learning "Higher Ground"...I was reading a transcription of it as done by the Chilli Peppers while playing along with the Stevie Wonder version. The difference is...Chili Peppers played it in E where as Stevie does it in Eb.
The only frustration I had was at first with iTunes...I didn't realize that they had a really simple tool to create MP3 versions of songs. I thought you only had the Mp4s. Yeah, once I looked under "advanced" and saw make MP3 version. I was astounded. Now, I load up tunes & play-a-longs to the bass trainer and go to Evita to get some practice in between 7:30 & 8PM [we have a 7:30 call, but without the trainer, I'm just sitting there reading or being bored].
So yeah-I give this device 4/5 stars. The only things that I am deducting the star for are: Only plays MP3s, it's pretty big-about the size of a pack of Djarum Cigarettes or a bit wider than a pack of Marlboro 100's and about as thick. The unit is by no means large, but eh-I'd like to to be closer to the size of an iPod. Yep. ..I'm sorta picky. However, I do LOVE this unit. It has helped reinvigorate my practice routine. I love being able to practice whenever I want with an amp and metronome without driving the neighbors nuts. I like playing late [after gigs], so this is a great thing.
all the best.
Evita, is in the final regularly scheduled weekend!! I'm subbing out of the last night, April 19th, to play a Slam. The run has been a blast thus far. We have an extension to run through the end of May...hopefully longer. Some of the cast and band will be changing. Kevin Brown, will be leaving us due to another contract and the new drummer will be awesome. The music director, Ryan, will be subbing out of a few dates as well. I'm sticking with the run....and will be subbing out for some Slams. Not going to lie, the Slams are a blast and they pay a lot better. In a typical night playing the Slam, I make double what I do playing Evita in a given evening. Evita is a lot of fun and pays well for the weekend...just not as much on a night.
Gear Review Tascam MP BT1
So this is my first formal [if i can call it that] gear review. I bought this little machine the first week of March and I've been playing with it since.
Some background, it's an MP3 Bass Trainer. What is a trainer? It's a headphone amp + music player in one. It features effects, metronome, tuner, and some fun software. The software allows you to slow down a song without changing pitch, transpose a song without changing tempo, cut the bass track, loop sections, and a variety of similar functions.
Now that I've had it for a bit, I love this thing. The metronome & slow down functions are great. The metronome isn't as feature laden as my Korg MA30, but it's adequate. You can't put in subdivisions or anything like that, you get to pick how many beats, and tempo. I used this to learn Sir Duke by Stevie Wonder & What is Hip by Tower of Power. Two tunes that previously I considered "landmarks'...where i knew my playing was at a great point when i could play those cleanly and with power. This device was also great for learning "Higher Ground"...I was reading a transcription of it as done by the Chilli Peppers while playing along with the Stevie Wonder version. The difference is...Chili Peppers played it in E where as Stevie does it in Eb.
The only frustration I had was at first with iTunes...I didn't realize that they had a really simple tool to create MP3 versions of songs. I thought you only had the Mp4s. Yeah, once I looked under "advanced" and saw make MP3 version. I was astounded. Now, I load up tunes & play-a-longs to the bass trainer and go to Evita to get some practice in between 7:30 & 8PM [we have a 7:30 call, but without the trainer, I'm just sitting there reading or being bored].
So yeah-I give this device 4/5 stars. The only things that I am deducting the star for are: Only plays MP3s, it's pretty big-about the size of a pack of Djarum Cigarettes or a bit wider than a pack of Marlboro 100's and about as thick. The unit is by no means large, but eh-I'd like to to be closer to the size of an iPod. Yep. ..I'm sorta picky. However, I do LOVE this unit. It has helped reinvigorate my practice routine. I love being able to practice whenever I want with an amp and metronome without driving the neighbors nuts. I like playing late [after gigs], so this is a great thing.
all the best.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Evita is off and running!
Hello,
Evita
We're 2ish? weeks into Evita. The show is locking in and is a blast. I'm subbing out of 2 more dates to play Slams. They are: March 29th and April 19th, I've lined up Chris Damman to sub in for me.
Link to a listing of Reviews
Thus far, the show has been a blast.
The bass book is the most challenging that I've played....there are parts of it that I've simplified that I'll be working on for another few weeks. I feel that simple works pretty well in this context. The book is actually a doubling book-the show is scored for a huge orchestra. There are places where the double bass and harp double each other [well-sorta], places where the double bass is with brass. So-with some editing by Ryan Brewster [music director of Evita]-we've made it work with just electric bass. A lot of the times where I'd be functioning as string section, I'm either just rolling a low note or I'm laying out. I feel like it lets the music take on a more intimate sound where it's just piano & voice, when Kevin [drummer] & I come in-the music takes on a very different texture. It has this inherent drive-i dig it.
Gear for Evita
I recently did some work on my StingRay5. Work = refinished the neck and restrung it. If you're reading this, more than likely you're either related to me or a gear junkie...or i work for you. The necks of StingRay & Sterling basses are gunstock oil and wax.
So, to refinish it, I used a scour pad [the back side of a sponge] to get some of the dirt and gunk off. I used a little bit of rubbing alcohol to get more of the gunk out. This DOES dry out the wood a lot. Once i went over the neck and fingerboard with the scour pad + alcohol, I made sure it was dry. I used Birchwood Casey Truoil for the neck finish. I did 4 coats of oil. I waited 30mins between coats #1 & #2, 15mins between #2 & #3, 15mins between #3 & #4. I waited 30mins before applying wax. This is a much shorter wait time than what the package suggests. I put it by a window wrapped in paper towel while i was waiting. I then put several coats of wax on the neck. I used brown paper bags to rub it out after I had applied it. Now? The neck feels good and is much cleaner.
String-I had been playing on the same set of PowerSlinkys for about a year. It was time for some new strings. The store didn't have Power Slinky's in 5 string, so I got Regular Slinkys 5 [45-130]. Holy hell, new strings made a huge difference in sound. I sound like the recordings again.
It's extremely gear wise for Evita. StingRay5 + SWR WorkingMan's 12. I set my EQ once and I leave it. The treble is barely boosted, mids barely boosted, bass up to about 7/8 of full. 99% of the show is just variations on finger style playing [closer to neck vs. bridge, etc]. On one song {Peron's Latest Flame}-I palm mute.
Well, i need to do some homework before Evita tonight.
all the best.
Evita
We're 2ish? weeks into Evita. The show is locking in and is a blast. I'm subbing out of 2 more dates to play Slams. They are: March 29th and April 19th, I've lined up Chris Damman to sub in for me.
Link to a listing of Reviews
Thus far, the show has been a blast.
The bass book is the most challenging that I've played....there are parts of it that I've simplified that I'll be working on for another few weeks. I feel that simple works pretty well in this context. The book is actually a doubling book-the show is scored for a huge orchestra. There are places where the double bass and harp double each other [well-sorta], places where the double bass is with brass. So-with some editing by Ryan Brewster [music director of Evita]-we've made it work with just electric bass. A lot of the times where I'd be functioning as string section, I'm either just rolling a low note or I'm laying out. I feel like it lets the music take on a more intimate sound where it's just piano & voice, when Kevin [drummer] & I come in-the music takes on a very different texture. It has this inherent drive-i dig it.
Gear for Evita
I recently did some work on my StingRay5. Work = refinished the neck and restrung it. If you're reading this, more than likely you're either related to me or a gear junkie...or i work for you. The necks of StingRay & Sterling basses are gunstock oil and wax.
So, to refinish it, I used a scour pad [the back side of a sponge] to get some of the dirt and gunk off. I used a little bit of rubbing alcohol to get more of the gunk out. This DOES dry out the wood a lot. Once i went over the neck and fingerboard with the scour pad + alcohol, I made sure it was dry. I used Birchwood Casey Truoil for the neck finish. I did 4 coats of oil. I waited 30mins between coats #1 & #2, 15mins between #2 & #3, 15mins between #3 & #4. I waited 30mins before applying wax. This is a much shorter wait time than what the package suggests. I put it by a window wrapped in paper towel while i was waiting. I then put several coats of wax on the neck. I used brown paper bags to rub it out after I had applied it. Now? The neck feels good and is much cleaner.
String-I had been playing on the same set of PowerSlinkys for about a year. It was time for some new strings. The store didn't have Power Slinky's in 5 string, so I got Regular Slinkys 5 [45-130]. Holy hell, new strings made a huge difference in sound. I sound like the recordings again.
It's extremely gear wise for Evita. StingRay5 + SWR WorkingMan's 12. I set my EQ once and I leave it. The treble is barely boosted, mids barely boosted, bass up to about 7/8 of full. 99% of the show is just variations on finger style playing [closer to neck vs. bridge, etc]. On one song {Peron's Latest Flame}-I palm mute.
Well, i need to do some homework before Evita tonight.
all the best.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Loonnnnnnnng time no post
So, I need to get back into the posting routine.
It's been over a month. Here's what I am up to.....
Theater
I'm no longer subbing in on the Robber Bridegroom. I did a few weekends of it and then the guy i was subbing for quit his day job. No day job = he doesn't need a sub. I now have Sunday afternoons open for homework & relaxing. Oh yes.
Evita is in tech!! We open tomorrow! Tonight is the preview. This has been a true learning experience. The book has kicked my ass pretty hardcore. Like-UFC with guns level kicked my ass. It's getting better and I will be a much better musician when I have this book to the level that I want it to be.
I am playing my StingRay5 on this gig. It fits the bill. The instrumentation is piano/organ, drums, and bass. Very sparse, but we can get a nice sound going.
The Slam!
We are booked March 15th, March 29th, April 19th, and May 3rd! The March dates will feature Diana Lawrence on piano, the April date the pianist is TBD, and in May Ryan Brewster will return for a one off evening with us while Diana is on tour. The drummer on all of these dates will be the awesome Scott Hirtenstein. He is the perfect cat for this gig. I am working on new tunes to keep up the mix of standards and arrangements.
Well-I need to get going. I have to leave in about 40mins for Evita. The 10min commute is awesome.
It's been over a month. Here's what I am up to.....
Theater
I'm no longer subbing in on the Robber Bridegroom. I did a few weekends of it and then the guy i was subbing for quit his day job. No day job = he doesn't need a sub. I now have Sunday afternoons open for homework & relaxing. Oh yes.
Evita is in tech!! We open tomorrow! Tonight is the preview. This has been a true learning experience. The book has kicked my ass pretty hardcore. Like-UFC with guns level kicked my ass. It's getting better and I will be a much better musician when I have this book to the level that I want it to be.
I am playing my StingRay5 on this gig. It fits the bill. The instrumentation is piano/organ, drums, and bass. Very sparse, but we can get a nice sound going.
The Slam!
We are booked March 15th, March 29th, April 19th, and May 3rd! The March dates will feature Diana Lawrence on piano, the April date the pianist is TBD, and in May Ryan Brewster will return for a one off evening with us while Diana is on tour. The drummer on all of these dates will be the awesome Scott Hirtenstein. He is the perfect cat for this gig. I am working on new tunes to keep up the mix of standards and arrangements.
Well-I need to get going. I have to leave in about 40mins for Evita. The 10min commute is awesome.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
It's been awhile...more gigs
So yes, it has been awhile.
Sub gig
The gig I mentioned earlier for subbing is 'The Robber Bridegroom' which will be running at the Theater Building Chicago from Feb 13th through March 29th. I will be subbing in on the Sunday matinees from Feb 22nd through the end of the run. I'm also filing in on 1-2 other nights. I will be playing my New Standard Cleveland for this show. It's blue grass...I don't know if I'm going to be amped/mic'd or not. I'm not worried. It's a pretty small space and my bass is loud. The instrumentation is 2 fiddles, banjo, guitar, and bass. No drums [sadly]...I think the sound of the band would take on a whole new dimension if that had someone playing snare w/brushes or rods. The only parts of this show that are striking me as 'odd'....the band will be costumed & on stage. I'm a sub. The guy I'm subbing for is a lanky/thin guy. I am no where near thin. Sizable beer belly is a good way to look at it. I'm hoping a plaid shirt & jeans will suffice. The stage part-isn't a big deal to me. I've played in this space before. There is no other place for the band to be, but on stage.
Zombie Prom
I was contacted by Daniel Singer to play for a Jr. High Production. Ok, get the laughs out of the way. This show is fun. The bass books has a lot of freedom and the book as is, is a blast to play. However, the freedom is great so that I can modify the parts to be more 'like me'. I'm not sure who the original player was or how much of the book was written out. There's about 3 fills that happen a ton. I like them, but eh-I've changed them a bit. The kids are great. When I was learning the book, I thought 'are middle school kids really going to pull this off?' I've gotten my answer. Yes they can...it's like the Obama slogan all over again. I live in Chicago and am in the liberalish community-that slogan comes up in a variety of capacities quite often.
The show is out in Glencoe, IL. There's a Metra station about 10mins from the theater/auditorium-so that's how I get out there. Danny brings me home when it's an evening deal and I take Metra home when it's an afternoon deal.
Gear on Zombie Prom
Yes, I am trying to keep the gear part of the blog consistent. Sometimes, I fail. As you all can tell, this concerns me oh so greatly.
When I listened to the 'Zombie Prom' album, I was happy. The bass tone is typical modern theatre bass. More than likely it was recorded on a 'jazz bass on steriods'. Sadowsky, Alleva-Copolla, Lakland w/an active pre, etc. Probably an active bass strung with round wound strings. This is a good thing for me as I have a bass that gets that sound in spades. Surprise!! Yes, I am playing my StingRay5 w/rounds on this show. I'm using the classic smiley EQ on this...on my onboard preamp I have it setup like this: treb slightly boosted, mids flat, bass slightly boosted. I am using the bridge coil w/the dummy coil. I need to have my electronics looked at as this is the only position that is humbucking for me....not good.
Amp-the tried and trusty, SWR WM12. I'm not going direct so I am able to turn it up a bit more. Great sound, reliable, and was easy to take on the train.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes Closed!
My recap of GPB at Circle Theatre in Forest Park. It was a blast to play. The run was pretty long [November to Jan 31st]. The arrangements that Allison Kane did were beyond amazing. I did 'Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend' at a show case from a piano vocal book...the arrangement was horrible. Allison's version? Wow. I was fine with playing that 3 times a week for a few months. Heck, A lead sheet of it would have the possibility of making it into my Slam set. The other band people were great. I can see myself calling them for work. The actors were extremely nice and appreciative. The theatre staff/tech people were nice . All in a all, a fun time.
I'm Cam, this is my Tie, and we're Cam's Tie.
Yes, I'm still leading a trio backing the Uptown Poetry Slam at the Green Mill. Marc Smith (So What) likes the group. I've got Diana Lawrence on piano and Scott Hirtenstein on drums. I couldn't ask for better people to spend a few hours with. They're both amazing musicians and I am lucky that they have room in their schedule to jam with me. I've been playing 2-3 times a month since October when I subbed in with the Weird Sisters. I owe Bonnie Shadrake and the Weird Sisters& Stranger Brothers a huge thank you for landing this gig for me. Not only was it blast subbing in with you guys, I've never felt more comfortable on a stage than for the Poetry Slam.
The next dates Cam's Tie is backing the Slam at the Green Mill: Feb 15th, March 15th, March 29th. If you come to the Slam and read this, be sure to say hi. I'm the guy with the tie, big bass, and when I'm not on stage....in the back by the exit with a beer in my hand. Yeah, even though I love playing for a packed house, once I'm off the stage the crowd freaks me out a bit when it's uber packed. Hence, near the exit [where it's less crowded] and with a beer [makes the crowd seem easier to be around]. As always, there is a $6 cover and the Green Mill is 21+ only. Preshow music by Cam's Tie starts at approx 6:45PM, Open Mic at 7PM, The Featured Guests at 8PM, and the World's Least Competitive Slam at 9PM. We wrap up around 10PM.
Sorta ties into Cam's Tie...Slam Related
I was asked to back Marc Smith (so what) for a presentation on Uptown & The Slam a few weeks ago. I forget the exact date...it was a Monday afternoon the day after my trio played. That was a lot of fun. It was an information session for some teachers from Loyala Academy...I think they were all working on their Masters Degree. They seemed nice. Marc did some poetry, I backed him up, and life was good. It was a bit weird being at the Green Mill when it was light out...and I think around 1PM.
Next post will include 'Evita' with Theo Ubique, 'Zombie Prom' wrap up, a potential new music toy.
Sub gig
The gig I mentioned earlier for subbing is 'The Robber Bridegroom' which will be running at the Theater Building Chicago from Feb 13th through March 29th. I will be subbing in on the Sunday matinees from Feb 22nd through the end of the run. I'm also filing in on 1-2 other nights. I will be playing my New Standard Cleveland for this show. It's blue grass...I don't know if I'm going to be amped/mic'd or not. I'm not worried. It's a pretty small space and my bass is loud. The instrumentation is 2 fiddles, banjo, guitar, and bass. No drums [sadly]...I think the sound of the band would take on a whole new dimension if that had someone playing snare w/brushes or rods. The only parts of this show that are striking me as 'odd'....the band will be costumed & on stage. I'm a sub. The guy I'm subbing for is a lanky/thin guy. I am no where near thin. Sizable beer belly is a good way to look at it. I'm hoping a plaid shirt & jeans will suffice. The stage part-isn't a big deal to me. I've played in this space before. There is no other place for the band to be, but on stage.
Zombie Prom
I was contacted by Daniel Singer to play for a Jr. High Production. Ok, get the laughs out of the way. This show is fun. The bass books has a lot of freedom and the book as is, is a blast to play. However, the freedom is great so that I can modify the parts to be more 'like me'. I'm not sure who the original player was or how much of the book was written out. There's about 3 fills that happen a ton. I like them, but eh-I've changed them a bit. The kids are great. When I was learning the book, I thought 'are middle school kids really going to pull this off?' I've gotten my answer. Yes they can...it's like the Obama slogan all over again. I live in Chicago and am in the liberalish community-that slogan comes up in a variety of capacities quite often.
The show is out in Glencoe, IL. There's a Metra station about 10mins from the theater/auditorium-so that's how I get out there. Danny brings me home when it's an evening deal and I take Metra home when it's an afternoon deal.
Gear on Zombie Prom
Yes, I am trying to keep the gear part of the blog consistent. Sometimes, I fail. As you all can tell, this concerns me oh so greatly.
When I listened to the 'Zombie Prom' album, I was happy. The bass tone is typical modern theatre bass. More than likely it was recorded on a 'jazz bass on steriods'. Sadowsky, Alleva-Copolla, Lakland w/an active pre, etc. Probably an active bass strung with round wound strings. This is a good thing for me as I have a bass that gets that sound in spades. Surprise!! Yes, I am playing my StingRay5 w/rounds on this show. I'm using the classic smiley EQ on this...on my onboard preamp I have it setup like this: treb slightly boosted, mids flat, bass slightly boosted. I am using the bridge coil w/the dummy coil. I need to have my electronics looked at as this is the only position that is humbucking for me....not good.
Amp-the tried and trusty, SWR WM12. I'm not going direct so I am able to turn it up a bit more. Great sound, reliable, and was easy to take on the train.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes Closed!
My recap of GPB at Circle Theatre in Forest Park. It was a blast to play. The run was pretty long [November to Jan 31st]. The arrangements that Allison Kane did were beyond amazing. I did 'Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend' at a show case from a piano vocal book...the arrangement was horrible. Allison's version? Wow. I was fine with playing that 3 times a week for a few months. Heck, A lead sheet of it would have the possibility of making it into my Slam set. The other band people were great. I can see myself calling them for work. The actors were extremely nice and appreciative. The theatre staff/tech people were nice . All in a all, a fun time.
I'm Cam, this is my Tie, and we're Cam's Tie.
Yes, I'm still leading a trio backing the Uptown Poetry Slam at the Green Mill. Marc Smith (So What) likes the group. I've got Diana Lawrence on piano and Scott Hirtenstein on drums. I couldn't ask for better people to spend a few hours with. They're both amazing musicians and I am lucky that they have room in their schedule to jam with me. I've been playing 2-3 times a month since October when I subbed in with the Weird Sisters. I owe Bonnie Shadrake and the Weird Sisters& Stranger Brothers a huge thank you for landing this gig for me. Not only was it blast subbing in with you guys, I've never felt more comfortable on a stage than for the Poetry Slam.
The next dates Cam's Tie is backing the Slam at the Green Mill: Feb 15th, March 15th, March 29th. If you come to the Slam and read this, be sure to say hi. I'm the guy with the tie, big bass, and when I'm not on stage....in the back by the exit with a beer in my hand. Yeah, even though I love playing for a packed house, once I'm off the stage the crowd freaks me out a bit when it's uber packed. Hence, near the exit [where it's less crowded] and with a beer [makes the crowd seem easier to be around]. As always, there is a $6 cover and the Green Mill is 21+ only. Preshow music by Cam's Tie starts at approx 6:45PM, Open Mic at 7PM, The Featured Guests at 8PM, and the World's Least Competitive Slam at 9PM. We wrap up around 10PM.
Sorta ties into Cam's Tie...Slam Related
I was asked to back Marc Smith (so what) for a presentation on Uptown & The Slam a few weeks ago. I forget the exact date...it was a Monday afternoon the day after my trio played. That was a lot of fun. It was an information session for some teachers from Loyala Academy...I think they were all working on their Masters Degree. They seemed nice. Marc did some poetry, I backed him up, and life was good. It was a bit weird being at the Green Mill when it was light out...and I think around 1PM.
Next post will include 'Evita' with Theo Ubique, 'Zombie Prom' wrap up, a potential new music toy.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Long time no post
Hello,
I've got 3mins to type this before I need to leave for work.
I've lined up more gigs!
Pending an unforeseen surprise, I'll be playing "Zombie Prom" at Glencoe Jr High School w/Danny Singer [music director for Damn Yankees]. This is in addition to the other gigs.
I've also agreed to sub every Sunday from Feb 15th through March 29th for a buddy of mine in a blue grass theater show. Should be fun. He said I can use his bass, so unless if I absolutely hate how it feels-I won't even need to bring my own.
The Slams are going well. I'm looking to get a live recording done during one of our February dates.
Well-I must depart for work. I'll post more information later this week.
I've got 3mins to type this before I need to leave for work.
I've lined up more gigs!
Pending an unforeseen surprise, I'll be playing "Zombie Prom" at Glencoe Jr High School w/Danny Singer [music director for Damn Yankees]. This is in addition to the other gigs.
I've also agreed to sub every Sunday from Feb 15th through March 29th for a buddy of mine in a blue grass theater show. Should be fun. He said I can use his bass, so unless if I absolutely hate how it feels-I won't even need to bring my own.
The Slams are going well. I'm looking to get a live recording done during one of our February dates.
Well-I must depart for work. I'll post more information later this week.
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