The Bassist's Picks #4

Schedules are hard. Maybe this isn’t quite a twice monthly thing yet, but hey! Hope you enjoy 😊

Trio Sonata No. 6 In G Major – Bach Trios (Edgar Meyer, Chris Thile, Yo Yo Ma)

                Hard to say why, but this just “felt” like the perfect piece to start February with. Midwinter, but with glimmers of spring time and longer days reflect the characteristically charmed mood this Vivace movement invokes. Plus, I’ve featured these players’ other project the Goat Rodeo Sessions on this blog before and this is just another example of their ability to just make good music no matter the style.

By & By – Nathaniel Riley

                Nathaniel is a wonderful Colorado Singer-Songwriter whose career is just about to change drastically. He’s got an upcoming album to be released – and this is a song off that album (though a different recording I believe). I really dig his vocals, sonic atmosphere, and slick harmonic vocabulary. I’ve had the great fortune of learning his music to start playing with him, and wanted more people to know about it! We’ve got a big show as a duo coming up on March 2nd at Washington’s in Fort Collins, CO opening for a duet from Trampled By Turtles.

You Are My Sunshine – Ray Brown Trio

                This is one of those timeless songs that everyone knows the first verse to, whether they think they do or not. This trio arrangement with Gene Harris on piano and Jeff Hamilton on drums is one of THE most swingin’ things in existence. Alright, that’s a subjective opinion, but I can’t tell you how many times I’ve played along with the bass line during the piano solo. Also, these harmonies are so incredibly elegant and soulful… just have a listen and soak up the groove and masterful sonic palette. Bass melodies are always a good idea too, in case any future arrangers are reading 😉

Oceanic – Larry Grenadier

                I’ll admit – I’m familiar with Grenadier’s work as a sideman with Brad Mehldau and Joshua Redman among other jazz giants, but didn’t know until recently about his solo records. This track in particular is a gorgeous exploration of sonorities. The whole album is a journey worth taking – so do it!

Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum – Wayne Shorter

                I’ve known about this tune for quite some time, but had to spend some time learning it for a gig in January. Ron Carter’s bass playing is stunningly simple and effective. This is one of those classic Wayne Shorter tunes where playing the changes sounds “out” as all can be, but there’s a specific set of pitches that you can play through all the “weirdness” if you want to sound less angular.

Lush Life – Billy Strayhorn (times two!)

                Strayhorn wrote a ton of songs that are considered jazz standards to this day, mostly for the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Lush life is widely regarded as “masterpiece” of a jazz composition – and rightly so! Here’s two different versions of the composer himself playing – one with a choir while he plays piano and the other where he actually sings! When learning jazz standards it’s a terrific idea to listen to as many recordings as possible, particularly if you can find a composer’s version. Here’s your gold mine.

Younger Years – Milk Carton Kids

                It wouldn’t be my playlist without a touch of musical whiplash, sorry! I really enjoy the Milk Carton Kids, and especially how they invoke the Simon and Garfunkel El Pescador vibe without directly copying it. Beautiful tune, beautiful soundscape – that’s all there is. Pay special attention to the lushness of the simple 2-part harmonies and how much “depth” the lap steel interjections add.

I Want You Back – Lake Street Dive

                A student of mine was telling me about having to learn the original Jackson 5 version of this for an upcoming audition and it reminded me of this version. The bassline is ICONIC and LSD’s slowed down arrangement puts a heavy twist on this classic. If you don’t know the full scope of Lake Street Dive’s repertoire… rectify that immediately.

The Ghosts of Mississippi – The Steeldrivers

                Maybe this track is a bit overplayed, but between the fiddle hook and Chris Stapleton’s signature voice it was basically the soundtrack at one of my favorite beer bars in Fort Collins between 2017 and the end of the world. Anyway, great gritty track. Have a taste of my nostalgia!