Bernstein discusses different transmogrifications or treatments of Bach’s works. After an organ recital of the Little Fugue, guest conductor Leopold Stokowski conducts his own transcription of the fugue for symphony orchestra. Other transmogrifications include Foss’ Phorion and a version of the Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 performed by the New York Rock and Roll Ensemble.
In this excerpt, Bernstein discusses the Bach Little Fugue in G Minor heard on the Moog Synthesizer.
Billie Eilish has announced two album listening parties in support of her highly anticipated third studio album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT, set for release on May 17. The free events presented by American Express, and produced by Live Nation, will take place on Wednesday, May 15 in Brooklyn, NY at Barclays Center in association YouTube Music and Thursday, May 16 in Los Angeles, CA at the Kia Forum in association with Snapchat. Special perks for American Express Card Members will be available.
TICKETS: Tickets will be available through Ticketmaster HERE. Fans can request up to two tickets for the free BILLIE EILISH HIT ME HARD AND SOFT ALBUM LISTENING PARTIES in New York and Los Angeles. Requests must be submitted by Tuesday, May 7 at 9AM PT. Submissions do not guarantee tickets to the event. Confirmations will be sent out on Friday, May 10.
Fans are encouraged to take public transportation or carpool to and from the album listening parties to help reduce greenhouse gas pollution.
Barclays Center is located on top of one of New York’s largest transportation hubs. Fans can arrive at the venue via eleven different subway lines, multiple bus lines, and the Long Island Railroad. Public transportation is recommended, and routes can be planned using the MTA’s trip planner.
There are several ways to get to the Kia Forum via public transportation. Fans can arrive in Inglewood by taking either the K Line or C Line and then board a free shuttle bus beginning at 6:45 p.m. to the venue from the Avocado Station (C Line’s Hawthorne/Lennox station) or Pirate Station (K Line’s Downtown Inglewood station). Another option is to take the Line 115 or Line 212 bus directly to the venue. After the event, Metro will provide shuttle bus services back to both the K and C Lines with the last shuttle bus departing 70 minutes after the concert ends. Routes can be planned using the Metro trip planner. Additionally, the Kia Forum offers a Regional Park and Ride roundtrip service where attendees can choose from five convenient Park and Ride locations across the County of Los Angeles. Shuttles will depart for the Kia Forum approximately 90 minutes before the doors open. The Park and Ride services will be complimentary and available exclusively to event ticket holders. Stay tuned for more info
The album listening events follow Billie Eilish’s massive HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: THE TOUR announcement. Starting in September 2024, Eilish will embark on her North American leg of the tour which runs through to the end of December 2024. The tour will continue in Australia starting February 2025 ahead of her European, U.K., and Ireland arena dates starting in April until late July. For more information, visit billieeilish.com.
Billie Eilish’s forthcoming album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT was written by Billie Eilish and FINNEAS, her brother and long-time collaborator, who also produced the album. HIT ME HARD AND SOFT will be available on all digital platforms, and in a continued effort to minimize waste and combat climate change; across all physical formats in limited variants on the same day, with the same track-listing and using 100% recyclable materials. For more information on all sustainable practices for this album release, please visit https://store.billieeilish.com/pages/sustainability
HIT ME HARD AND SOFT is out everywhere on May 17.
HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: THE TOUR – NORTH AMERICA*
Sun Sep 29 – Québec, QC – Centre Videotron
Tue Oct 01 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
Wed Oct 02 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
Fri Oct 04 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena
Sat Oct 05 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center
Mon Oct 07 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena
Wed Oct 09 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center
Fri Oct 11 – Boston, MA – TD Garden
Sun Oct 13 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena
Wed Oct 16 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Thu Oct 17 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Fri Oct 18 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Sat Nov 02 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
Sun Nov 03 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
Wed Nov 06 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
Fri Nov 08 – Cincinnati, OH – Heritage Bank Center
Sun Nov 10 – Saint Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
Mon Nov 11 – Saint Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
Wed Nov 13 – Chicago, IL – United Center
Thu Nov 14 – Chicago, IL – United Center
Sat Nov 16 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center
Sun Nov 17 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center Omaha
Tue Nov 19 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena
Wed Nov 20 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena
Tue Dec 03 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena
Thu Dec 05 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena
Fri Dec 06 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena
Sun Dec 08 – Portland, OR – Moda Center
Tue Dec 10 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center at San Jose
Wed Dec 11 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center at San Jose
Fri Dec 13 – Glendale, AZ – Desert Diamond Arena
Sun Dec 15 – Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum
Mon Dec 16 – Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum
Tue Dec 17 – Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum
HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: THE TOUR – AUSTRALIA
Tue Feb 18, 2025 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Wed Feb 19, 2025 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Fri Feb 21, 2025 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Sat Feb 22, 2025 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Mon Feb 24, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena
Tue Feb 25, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena
Thu Feb 27, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena
Fri Feb 28, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena
Tue Mar 4, 2025 –Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena
Wed Mar 5, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena
Fri Mar 7, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena
Sat Mar 8, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena
HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: THE TOUR – EUROPE/U.K./IRELAND
Wed Apr 23, 2025 – Stockholm, Sweden – Avicii Arena
Thu Apr 24, 2025 – Stockholm, Sweden – Avicii Arena
Sat Apr 26, 2025 – Oslo, Norway – Telenor Arena
Mon Apr 28, 2025 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Royal Arena
Tue Apr 29, 2025 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Royal Arena
Fri May 2, 2025 – Hannover, Germany – ZAG Arena
Sun May 4, 2025 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Mon May 5, 2025 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Wed May 7, 2025 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Fri May 9, 2025 – Berlin, Germany – Uber Arena
Thu May 29, 2025 – Cologne, Germany – Lanxess Arena
Fri May 30, 2025 – Cologne, Germany – Lanxess Arena
Sun June 1, 2025 – Prague, Czech Republic – O2 Arena
Tue June 3, 2025 – Kraków, Poland – Tauron Arena
Wed June 4, 2025 – Kraków, Poland – Tauron Arena
Fri June 6, 2025 – Vienna, Austria – Stadthalle
Sun June 8, 2025 – Bologna, Italy – Unipol Arena
Tue June 10, 2025 – Paris, France – Accor Arena
Wed June 11, 2025 – Paris, France – Accor Arena
Sat June 14, 2025 – Barcelona, Spain – Palau Sant Jordi
Sun June 15, 2025 –Barcelona, Spain – Palau Sant Jordi
Mon Jul 7, 2025 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro
Tue Jul 8, 2025 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro
Thu Jul 10, 2025 – London, UK – The O2
Fri Jul 11, 2025 –London, UK – The O2
Sun Jul 13, 2025 – London, UK – The O2
Mon Jul 14, 2025 – London, UK – The O2
Wed Jul 16, 2025 – London, UK – The O2
Thu Jul 17, 2025 – London, UK – The O2
Sat Jul 19, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
Sun Jul 20, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
Tue Jul 22, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
Wed Jul 23, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
Sat Jul 26, 2025 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena
Sun Jul 27, 2025 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena
Universally-acclaimed singer/songwriter/guitarist Bruce Cockburn continues his worldwide tour in support of his latest album, O Sun O Moon, with the upcoming announcement of a new series of dates in the U.S. throughout the month of November. Tickets will be going on sale May 10th.
In other Bruce Cockburn news, the master musician will be getting yet another new Honorary Doctorate of Music Degree on June 14. More information on that here.
The legendary singer/songwriter/guitarist, whose palette of honors and awards includes 13 Canadian JUNO wins, two Hall of Fame inductions, countless honorary Doctorates, Officer of The Order of Canada and recent inductee into Canada’s Walk of Fame spanning a 50+ year career, also recently appeared on the National Public Radio performance show, “Mountain Stage,” that began airing March 29th. Recorded on February 1st at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek, California, Cockburn was joined on stage that night by Colin Hay, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Chuck Prophet & the Make Out Quartet and The Lucky Valentines. “Mountain Stage” with host Kathy Mattea airs on over 260 NPR Stations nationwide.
Bruce Cockburn’s most-recent album, O Sun O Moon, has generated world-wide acclaim and radio airplay. He’s enjoyed an illustrious career shaped by politics, spirituality, and musical diversity. His remarkable journey has seen him embrace folk, jazz, rock, and worldbeat styles while earning high praise as a prolific, inspired songwriter and accomplished guitarist. He remains deeply respected for his activism and humanist song lyrics that thread throughout his career. On all his albums Cockburn has deftly captured the joy, pain, fear, and faith of human experience in song.
Bruce Cockburn “O Sun O Moon” US. Tour Dates
NOV 1 BROWNFIELD ME – STONE MOUNTAIN ARTS CENTER
NOV 2 KEENE NH – COLONIAL THEATRE
NOV 3 EAST GREENWICH RI – GREENWICH ODEUM
NOV 6 FAIRFIELD CT – THE WAREHOUSE
NOV 7 NEW YORK CITY NY – CITY WINERY
NOV 8 MONTCLAIR NJ – OUTPOST IN THE BURBS
NOV 9 COLLINGSWOOD NJ – SCOTTISH RITE AUDITORIUM
NOV 11 ANNAPOLIS MD – RAMS HEAD ON STAGE
NOV 12 ALEXANDRIA VA – THE BIRCHMERE
NOV 13 CHARLOTTESVILLE VA – JEFFERSON THEATER
NOV 15 RICHMOND VA – TIN PAN
NOV 16 CHARLOTTE NC – NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE
NOV 17 DURHAM NC – FLETCHER HALL AUDITORIUM
NOV 18 CHARLESTON SC- CHARLESTON MUSIC HALL
In the 1960s, Greenwich Village was at the epicenter of the burgeoning folk music boom that was happening around the world, and a young Rory Block had a ringside seat to this evolution. With the release of her new album, Positively 4h Street: A Tribute to Bob Dylan, she gifts the sounds of that era to listeners everywhere. Stony Plain also plans to release the title track as a single on Bob Dylan’s birthday, May 24th.
“In March of 2020, we took a leap into the great unknown and began broadcasting 90-minute shows every week from home,” says Rory Block. “This unexpected journey has lasted over four years, and led to countless informal forays into a broad range of material by numerous artists – current and past. Probably the most persistent and enthusiastic requests from viewers for anything outside of the blues genre has been the repeated calls to record a Bob Dylan tribute. But how would I, an artist associated almost entirely with blues for over 30 releases, suddenly switch to recording songs by one of the greatest songwriters who ever lived? Thinking wouldn’t help. It had to start, simply put, by plugging in the mics and pressing record. It’s always a mystery…
“As it happens, I grew up in Greenwich Village and was a teenager when Bob Dylan’s songs were becoming huge hits. We didn’t think it unusual to spot John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix or Bob Dylan walking down West 4th Street at a time when the area was overflowing with musicians of every description and level of fame. My father’s place of business, The Allan Block Sandal Shop, was a centrally located and well-known hub for local musicians, and West 4th Street, where it intersected the one block long street called Jones Street, became the center of my universe. By the time I was in my 20s, Dylan was one of the most famous names in the music business.
“It was during the 1960s that I walked into Dad’s sandal shop and saw an artistic looking man sitting and talking with my father. I was aware of who he was: a musician and local resident – but I was raised to respect peoples’ privacy and not fawn over anyone, known or unknown. It was just part of the general musical atmosphere that characterized the place and time.
“I remember the hat, and the youthful face. He was not yet famous, so at that point he was among the many interesting people stopping by. He may have recently been signed to a label, but I don’t think his first album had come out yet. When I walked in, he was sitting there talking to my dad, and I remember thinking that he had a very unique, artistic presence. After he left, Dad told me something about the conversation. He said that Bob was a poet first and foremost who really didn’t care for the ‘business’ side of things. His priorities lay in being true to his art. Right away I resonated with the message.
“I understood it to mean that Dylan had integrity that he would not compromise. I also understood from this that it was OK to buck the system, to reject the shiny, glossy world of business in exchange for artistic honesty, a lesson which stood me in good stead many times over the years. It was an inspiration and the way I was raised to feel about music. People like Bob Dylan served to reinforce this important, grounding piece of information.”
“As with all my recordings, the songs that move me the most deeply, touching heart and soul, are the ones I choose to record. This is always based on songs that leap up and cry out to me. It has everything to do with the message, the melody, and the energy in the song- and luckily, there is never a shortage of incredible songs to choose from.” – Rory Block
SONG LIST
1. Everything Is Broken 3:28
2. Ring Them Bells 2:43
3. Like A Rolling Stone 6:27
4. Not Dark Yet 6:04
5. Mr. Tambourine Man 3:39
6. Positively 4th Street 5:05
7. A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall 7:06
8. Mother Of Muses 6:39
9. Murder Most Foul 20:42
Want to feel old yet forever young? Friday, May 10, marks the 50th anniversary of Andy Kim’s “Rock Me Gently.” Yes, that “Rock Me Gently”: “Rock me gently/ Rock me slowly/ Take it easy/ Don’t you know/ That I have never been loved like this before.” The one with the amiably loping beat that turns driving on its high-octane chorus, and the keyboard squiggles that start out as winking counterpoint to the vocals and then explode into full-on solo frenzy.
The record was a massive hit in 1974, going all the way to Number 1 in the U.S. and Number 2 in the U.K. as part of its staggering four-month run on the charts. Even if you weren’t alive back then to experience the song’s inexorable pop pull, you’ve probably heard it since, on shows like Ray Donovan and Sex Education or commercials for the Jeep Liberty. And that’s not even mentioning the 1989 cover by country artist Michelle Wright, nor the sample of “Rock Me Gently” that showed up in Mint Royale’s “Take It Easy” 10 years later.
Given its enduring appeal, one can easily forget that, at the time of “Rock Me Gently’s” original release, Kim was already considered washed up in the music business. He was no longer the kid who had driven from his native Montreal to New York on a wing and a prayer to find work at the famous Brill building. The success that had followed included co-writing and singing on the Number 1 song of 1969, “Sugar Sugar” by The Archies, and shifting more than 1.5 million copies of his own take on the Phil Spector/Ronettes classic “Baby I Love You” the very same year. But by 1974, nobody wanted to know. Kim had to release “Rock Me Gently” on his own label, after turndowns from absolutely every producer and established record company he approached. In fact, it was a tough go at radio at first, but the writer who became his own producer of the song never believed in the word ‘no’ to mean anything but another opportunity to create his own destiny.
The ultimate embrace of the song by the public at large was sweet vindication for him as an artist, and a rebuke to all of the supposed tastemakers who had failed to recognize a monster hit when they heard it.
If this were a fairy tale, the last line would be that Kim lived happily ever after. Instead, a variety of forces—including ever-shifting cultural currents and the death of his father—ensured that his career continued to have more than its share of ups and downs. He’s been left for dead several times, even operating under the pseudonym Baron Longfellow for a stretch. And truth be told, it’s never been in his nature to prioritize the spotlight of personal glory over the work anyway.
But when you’ve touched so many people with your songs—your song in particular, the one with your name on it, that you put so much on the line to record and release—your fans won’t let you fade into obscurity. At age 77, Kim finds himself in the enviable position of being hailed as an elder statesman of pop while enjoying a newfound relevance to contemporary audiences. “I Forgot To Mention,” his 2004 collaboration with one of those aforementioned fans, Ed Robertson of the Barenaked Ladies, got him named the Best Solo Indie Artist of the Year during Canadian Music Week. That paved the way for “comeback albums” like 2010’s Happen Again and 2015’s It’s Decided, the latter of which put Kim on the Arts & Crafts label with hip latter-day artists like Feist, Chilly Gonzales, The Stills and Stars, thanks to Kevin Drew, founder of Arts & Crafts, showcasing his admiration for the iconic artist’s timeless music. This collaboration brings together two generations of Canadian music talent, bridging the gap between past and present in the indie music scene. Drew’s decision reflects not only his business acumen but also his deep appreciation for Kim’s enduring musical legacy.
And every year, his Andy Kim Christmas Show raises big money – over $2.5 million so far – for Toronto charities, thanks in part to support from a roster of talents that’s included Broken Social Scene, Metric, Maestro Fresh Wes, Sarah Harmer, Sam Roberts, Lights, Rush’s Alex Lifeson, Finger Eleven and Ron Sexsmith.
Kim’s name now hangs in a veritable mansion’s worth of hallowed halls, including the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame and Billboard’s Hit Parade Hall of Fame. He also has his own spot of Canada’s Walk of Fame. And last year, he received the ultimate honor by being made an officer of the Order of Canada, for his irreplaceable contributions to the cultural landscape of his country.
So in this instance at least, the final answer to “Where are they now?” is “Here to stay.” On the anniversary of perhaps the most significant turning point in a career that’s seen plenty of them, one truth has been made abundantly clear: Andy Kim will not go “Gently” into that good night.
By Mitch Rice
As a bass guitarist, having the right parts and accessories can make all the difference in your sound and performance. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, investing in quality bass guitar parts can help you take your low-end to the next level. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the must-have bass guitar parts and accessories that can help transform your sound and take your playing to new heights.
Tuning machines are a crucial component of your bass guitar, as they play a vital role in maintaining the proper tuning of your instrument. These essential parts are responsible for keeping your strings in tune, ensuring your bass sounds its absolute best.
There exist two types of tuners, namely locking and non-locking tuners, each designed to provide exceptional performance and reliability. Locking tuners are a popular choice among bassists, as they offer a secure and stable tuning mechanism. These tuners “lock” the strings in place, preventing them from slipping or going out of tune during play. This feature is particularly beneficial for bassists who engage in energetic performances or need to quickly change tunings.
On the other hand, non-locking tuners provide a more traditional approach to tuning. These tuners allow for a smoother and more gradual tuning adjustment, making them ideal for players who prefer a more hands-on approach to tuning their instrument. Non-locking tuners are also a popular choice for bassists who need to make frequent tuning adjustments during a performance.
Regardless of your preferred tuning machine type, the right bass tuning machines consistently deliver precision, durability, and a smooth, responsive feel. These high-quality components not only keep your bass in tune but also contribute to the overall playability and tone of your instrument.
The bridge and tailpiece of your bass guitar are integral components that significantly impact the overall sound and performance of your instrument. These parts are responsible for transmitting the vibrations of the strings to the body of the bass, which in turn shapes the tone and resonance you experience.
One of the standout options is the headless bridge. This innovative design eliminates the need for a traditional headstock, resulting in a more streamlined and visually appealing appearance for your bass. Headless bridges also offer improved ergonomics, allowing for a more comfortable playing experience, especially for bassists who prefer a more compact and maneuverable instrument.
Another intriguing option is the fan bridge. This unique design features a curved or angled shape that can help optimize the string tension and intonation across the entire fretboard. Fan bridges can be particularly beneficial for bassists who play a wide range of notes and chords, as they can help ensure that each string is precisely in tune and responsive to your touch.
In addition to the bridges, a variety of tailpieces are also available to complement your bass guitar. Tailpieces play a crucial role in transferring the vibrations from the strings to the body, and these offerings are engineered to provide maximum resonance and sustain, further enhancing the tonal character of your bass.
The pickups on your bass guitar play a critical role in determining the overall sound and tone of your instrument. These essential components are responsible for capturing the vibrations of the strings and converting them into an electrical signal that can be amplified and processed.
There are two types of bass pickups: active and passive, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Active pickups are powered by an onboard preamp, which allows for greater control over your tone. These pickups can deliver a more powerful and articulate sound, with the ability to boost the low-end frequencies and fine-tune the overall tonal balance.
In contrast, passive pickups rely on the natural vibrations of the strings to generate the electrical signal. While they may not offer the same level of tonal control as active pickups, passive designs can provide a more organic and natural-sounding tone. Many bassists appreciate the warm and smooth tone that passive pickups can produce, making them a popular choice for players who value a more traditional or vintage-inspired sound.
Regardless of your preferred pickup type, look for exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail when choosing one. Each pickup is designed to capture the nuances of your playing, ensuring that your bass guitar’s tone is faithfully represented and amplified.
The knobs and electronics on your bass guitar help shape your tone, while also controlling your playing experience. These components allow you to fine-tune and tailor the sound of your instrument to suit your personal preferences and the demands of your musical style.
When it comes to bass knobs, you often have a wide range of materials and designs to choose from. Whether you prefer the sleek and modern look of metal knobs, the warm and natural appeal of wood, or the classic simplicity of plastic, you have plenty of options on the market. These knobs not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your bass guitar.
Beyond the knobs, there also exist top-quality potentiometers and switches to ensure the smooth and responsive operation of your bass’s electronics. Potentiometers, also known as pots, are responsible for controlling the volume and tone of your instrument, while the switches allow you to select different pickup configurations or engage special features.
The right electronic components are engineered to deliver exceptional performance and reliability, ensuring that your bass guitar’s sound and functionality remain consistent and dependable, even during the most demanding playing sessions.
When it comes to getting the most out of your bass guitar, the nut and saddles are crucial components that shouldn’t be overlooked. These unassuming parts play a vital role in ensuring proper string height and intonation, which can have a significant impact on your playing experience and the overall sound of your instrument.
The nut is the small, slotted piece of material, often made of plastic or bone, that sits at the base of the neck. Its primary function is to provide the proper string height, ensuring that the strings can vibrate freely without buzzing against the fretboard. The best selection of bass guitar nuts includes a range of materials and designs, each tailored to meet the specific needs of different bass models and playing styles.
Located at the bridge of your bass, the saddles are responsible for adjusting the intonation of each string. By fine-tuning the position of the saddles, you can ensure that your bass is perfectly in tune across the entire fretboard, allowing you to play with precision and accuracy. You do have a variety of bass saddle options, including those made of high-quality metals and alloys, to help you dial in the perfect setup for your instrument.
As a dedicated bassist, you understand that elevating your playing experience goes beyond just the core components of your instrument. Maintaining your bass guitar in top condition and personalizing its appearance are equally important aspects of your musical journey.
The right selection of luthier tools, such as precision screwdrivers, truss rod wrenches, and string winders, can be invaluable in helping you perform basic setup and maintenance tasks on your bass. These professional-grade tools allow you to fine-tune your instrument’s action, intonation, and overall playability, ensuring that your bass is always performing at its best.
By taking the time to meticulously adjust and maintain your bass guitar, you can unlock its full potential and achieve the precise tone and response you desire. Whether you’re preparing for a recording session or fine-tuning your setup before a live performance, having the right luthier tools at your disposal can make all the difference in the world.
Beyond the functional aspects of your bass guitar, customizing its appearance can also be a deeply rewarding and expressive process. You can choose from a variety of control plates, ranging from sleek and modern designs to more traditional options, to personalize the look of your instrument’s electronics.
These control plates not only enhance the visual appeal of your bass but also provide a sturdy and reliable surface for your knobs and switches. This can contribute to a seamless and responsive playing experience, allowing you to make adjustments with ease and confidence.
By customizing the appearance of your bass guitar, you can imbue it with your own unique style and personality. Whether you’re drawn to a minimalist and modern aesthetic or prefer a more classic and vintage-inspired look, the right control plates can help you craft an instrument that truly reflects your musical identity.
Now that you have an in-depth understanding of the best bass guitar parts, you might be wondering where to buy from. Guyker, a renowned manufacturer, offers a comprehensive range of high-quality bass tuning machines to cater to the diverse needs of bass players.
By investing in quality bass guitar parts and accessories, you can transform your low-end and take your playing to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, Guyker has the essential components and personalized solutions to help you unlock your full potential as a bassist.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
By Mitch Rice
In music creation, the fusion of technology and artistry has opened new avenues for expression and innovation. One of the most exciting advancements in this space is the development of AI melody generators.
These tools are powerful. They are reshaping music composition. They offer creators unprecedented support in the pursuit of harmony and rhythm.
Read on to learn the benefits of using an AI melody generator.
AI melody generator is a powerful tool that enables artists to experiment and explore new sounds easily. It removes the limits of traditional music theory. This allows for more freedom and creativity in composition.
The AI melody generator lets musicians break from conventional song structures. They can create unique melodies without human limits.
AI sound generators can inspire musicians by providing new ideas and fresh perspectives. By giving it different music, the AI can make countless variations of melodies. This opens up a vast world of possibilities for artists to explore.
Collaboration is vital to music creation. But, it can be hard with traditional instruments. Each musician has unique styles and limits.
AI melody generators can bridge this gap. They do it by creating melodies that blend well with other instruments. They work regardless of the collaborators’ skill or musical background.
This makes it easier for artists to work together and bring their creative visions to life without hindrance. A text-to-song generator can also help non-musicians make music. It allows for diverse collaborations.
Creating a melody from scratch is a time-consuming process that requires a lot of trial and error. With AI melody generators, artists can save time by generating melodies to build upon or use as inspiration.
This makes the workflow faster. It frees up time for other parts of music production, like lyrics or instrumentation.
AI generated music also offers a faster way to produce background music for videos, games, or other multimedia projects. This can be especially helpful for creators working on tight deadlines.
AI melody generators offer an extensive library of pre-made melodies. But they also provide ways to customize them. Artists can input specific parameters. These include tempo, key, and style.
They use them to generate personalized melodies that match their vision. This level of customization allows for more control over the final product and helps artists add their unique touch to the music.
A melody generator can also analyze an artist’s style and generate melodies that match their musical aesthetic. This speeds up music composition. It ensures the final product reflects the artist’s identity.
AI technology constantly evolves and learns from new inputs, making it an asset for music creators. AI melody generators continue to gather data and analyze music. They will only get better at creating complex and new melodies.
The process of continual learning also means that artists can always count on having fresh ideas. These ideas push the boundaries of music creativity further than ever before. It also means that AI melody generators can keep up with the ever-changing trends in music.
AI melody generators have standout benefits. They can democratize music production by making it accessible to people of all skill levels.
These tools are for everyone, from seasoned musicians to people without formal music training. They can use the tools to create beautiful melodies.
This inclusivity encourages diverse voices and styles in music. It enriches the global music with fresh, new, and innovative works.
It promotes a culture where music creation is not just for those who can play an instrument or read music. It’s open to anyone with a passion for melody and the desire to express themselves through music.
AI melody generators also cut the environmental impact of music production. Digitizing the composition process reduces the need for physical instruments.
These instruments require natural resources to make and move. This shift cuts carbon footprints. It also minimizes waste from making and getting rid of musical equipment.
Also, digital tools can simulate rare and exotic instruments. This saves them from potential overuse or damage in traditional settings. This sustainable approach to making music ensures that artists can keep experimenting.
They can also keep innovating. They can do so while being mindful of their environmental duties.
An AI song generator can generate melodies in various styles and genres, expanding the musical horizons for artists. This exposure to different sounds and music structures. It opens avenues for experiments and cross-genre collaborations.
Additionally, an AI melody generator can analyze multiple songs and identify their patterns or similarities. This knowledge allows artists to use elements from many genres in their music.
They can create unique blends that push the boundaries of traditional music. This kind of experimentation and fusion brings new life to the industry.
Adding AI melody generators to music production speeds up many labor-intensive tasks. These used to take hours or even days. This technology can quickly do tasks.
It can harmonize melodies, suggest chords, and even generate full musical arrangements from a simple melody. Such features speed up production.
They let musicians and producers focus on music’s creative aspects. They don’t have to get bogged down in technical details. It also allows for faster turnaround times in music production.
For many artists, overcoming blocks is hard. Finding inspiration is one of the toughest parts of being creative. AI melody generators can help mitigate this by providing a continuous flow of musical ideas, no matter the artist’s current state of mind.
This constant inspiration can help push through creative droughts. It can also stimulate the creation of new, innovative music.
AI melody generators cross physical and geographical barriers. They let artists worldwide collaborate easily. With the ability to share and modify AI-generated melodies in real time, musicians can work together on compositions without being hindered by distance.
This opens up many global collaborations. They allow a mix of cultural influences and styles. Those may not have been possible otherwise.
It also builds community and connection among artists. It fosters a supportive and collaborative environment for music creation.
An AI melody generator is revolutionizing the music landscape by unlocking endless possibilities for creativity and collaboration. As technology advances, we can only imagine the incredible musical innovations that will emerge through this powerful fusion of art and AI. So, embrace this digital symphony and let your imagination soar to new heights!
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
By Mitch Rice
In the bustling world of online gaming, where the thrill of the next big win is always just a click away, responsible gaming remains a cornerstone of sustainable entertainment. Lucky Green Casino takes this aspect seriously, ensuring that the fun of free spins no deposit in Australia 2024 remains just that—fun, without the risk of turning into a problem. Let’s delve into how Lucky Green Casino champions responsible gaming and provides a safety net for its community or online slots in Canada.
Here’s what responsible gaming means at Lucky Green:
Responsible gaming is not just a policy; it’s a practice that protects the casino community. At Lucky Green, it’s about offering players tools and support to help manage their gaming habits effectively.
To empower players to stay in control of their gaming, Lucky Green Casino has implemented several user-friendly tools. These include:
Lucky Green Casino’s approach to creating a safe gaming environment is multi-faceted. It involves educating the staff and equipping them with the tools to offer immediate assistance. Training programs ensure that all team members are aware of the signs of problem gambling and know how to guide players to the help they might need.
Partnerships with gambling therapy organizations are part of the extended support system at Lucky Green. These partnerships provide external support and specialized help for those who need it. Here’s a look at some key collaborations:
| Organization | Type of Support Offered |
| GamCare | Counseling and dedicated support groups |
| Gambling Therapy | Online support and resources |
| Gamblers Anonymous | Peer-to-peer support networks |
The table above demonstrates Lucky Green Casino’s proactive approach to fostering a responsible gaming culture by collaborating with major support organizations. This not only amplifies the effectiveness of their internal policies but also provides an additional layer of support, ensuring that players have access to professional help whenever they need it.
Educating players about the risks associated with gambling and how to avoid them is another pillar of Lucky Green’s responsible gaming initiative. The casino regularly updates its blog and sends newsletters with tips on responsible gaming, updates on new tools, and stories from other players who have benefited from these resources.
The customer support team at Lucky Green is trained to be proactive in identifying and assisting players who may exhibit signs of problematic gambling behavior. This proactive approach not only helps in early detection but also ensures that players receive timely intervention, which can be crucial.
Lucky Green Casino doesn’t just provide tools and partnerships; it actively engages with its player base through tailored communications designed to promote healthy gaming habits. These communications are carefully crafted to be informative yet non-intrusive, providing vital information about recognizing early signs of gambling issues and how to address them. Seasonal campaigns during high-risk times, like major sports events or holidays, further emphasize the importance of moderation.
The landscape of online gaming is always evolving, and so are the strategies for promoting responsible gaming. Lucky Green Casino is committed to continuous improvement, regularly updating their protocols and tools based on player feedback and new research. This commitment ensures that the casino remains at the forefront of responsible gaming initiatives, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all players.
Knowledge is power, and at Lucky Green Casino, empowering players through education is a key strategy in promoting responsible gaming. The casino offers webinars, interactive workshops, and video tutorials that cover various aspects of gambling psychology, budget management, and the mechanics of gambling. By educating players, Lucky Green helps demystify gambling and reduces the risks associated with it.
Beyond individual tools and educational resources, Lucky Green Casino fosters a supportive community where players can share experiences and support each other in responsible gaming practices. Forums and chat groups facilitated by the casino allow players to discuss strategies for staying in control, share personal stories, and offer encouragement. This peer support is invaluable in building a responsible gaming culture.
To ensure the effectiveness of its responsible gaming measures, Lucky Green Casino employs advanced monitoring and analytics to track the effectiveness of their initiatives. This data-driven approach allows the casino to identify trends, understand the impact of their measures, and make informed decisions about necessary adjustments. These insights also help in tailoring interventions for individual players who may show signs of risky gambling behavior.
Looking forward, Lucky Green Casino plans to integrate even more advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, to enhance their responsible gaming initiatives. These technologies could be used to develop more personalized and proactive interventions, predict potential issues before they become problematic, and offer automated support tailored to individual needs.
At Lucky Green Casino, the commitment to responsible gaming is about ensuring that every player can enjoy the excitement of online gambling without the worry. With comprehensive measures in place and continuous efforts to improve, Lucky Green is a leader in providing a responsible gaming environment. We invite you to join us, enjoy the games responsibly, and take advantage of the many tools and resources available to support your journey in online gaming.
Lucky Green Casino’s dedication to responsible gaming ensures that the casino remains a venue for entertainment, not a cause for anxiety. With robust measures and a supportive environment, players can enjoy their favorite games knowing they are in a secure and caring space. Lucky Green invites you to enjoy its vast array of games, including exciting slots with free spins, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are playing at a casino that cares deeply about your well-being. Are you ready to explore gaming the responsible way?
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
When bad love hurts you, it can really sting. The betrayal can cut deep and sometimes you feel the need to shame them for what they did. The Canadian /U.S. collaboration RENITA ZINTEL from Lethbridge, AB and RANDY LODDER of El Paso, Texas knows this personally but uses rock n’ roll to heal their wounds in new single “Bad Bad You.”
Recently nominated in the U.S. for a HUGS 24/7 Radio Award, opening with some explosive guitar riffs, the song kicks into high gear with smoky, angry vocals from vocalist RENITA. Reminiscent of Joan Jett and a sprinkle of Janis Joplin, RENITA’s passionate delivery of the song’s lyrics is captivating.
RENZITA is inspired by a melting pot of genres: Metal, Hard Rock, Classical, and Jazz. After meeting in February 2023, they formed RENZITA and virtually completed their first album My Sick Addiction.
RENITA has a diverse background in music, writing songs and singing both original and cover tunes in bands of many genres. Her lifelong passion is creating music. She has released several solo albums in the blues and rock genre that have been played on College and Indie Radio, and EP and Album with the hard rock band Fate Will Come, in 2021. She is the primary lyricist and vocalist for RENZITA.
Through the years, RANDY worked his way through many bands and genres of music as a lead guitarist. He was creating, writing, and playing in original Seattle Hard Rock bands: Dagger, Project Gunhead, Distant Thunder, and Balance. He was also one of the first ones in the Seattle music scene to use 7 string guitars.
After moving to El Paso, TX he teamed up with an Austin TX country music veteran George Ransom and formed the Hard Rock/Country original band Ransom. Over the years, he has written and recorded multi-genre original songs and instrumentals, enough to produce a couple of albums.
“Bad Bad You” is the first single off RENZITA’s debut album My Sick Addiction, which was released March 2024. It has been added to over 90 radio stations around the world and considered a “Hot New Entry” at Galaxy FM with over 5000 requests.
My Sick Addiction has been nominated for the 2024 US ISSA Songwriter Awards as well as Holland’s 2024 International Red Carpet Album Awards. A second album from RENZITA is currently in the works.
The hard-rock juggernaut known as MJM has more than enough party favors in their stash to throw one heck of a blowout. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t going to fling open their doors in welcome when a true legend shows up wanting to join in. Just cock an ear toward the room-shaking new remix of MJM’s most recent single, “Live It Up,” now with a killer lead vocal by esteemed metal mouthpiece Tim “Ripper” Owens.
Beloved by headbangers across the globe for his peerless wailing on the Judas Priest albums Jugulator and Demolition—and currently rocking the mic for fellow JP alumnus K.K. Downing in KK’s Priest—Owens has taken the time to lend his immaculate voice to a simply wild reimagining of the track that elevates its gleeful excess to a whole new level. With a throat full of razor blades and an unmistakable devotion to the cause, he hurtles headlong into the song’s admonitions to carpe the hell out of that fabled diem:
Life can change in a New York minute
It’s a battle, we’re in it to win it
Live it up, flying high, having some fun
Live it up, it’s a wild ride, as we circle the sun
This is hedonistic anthemry like they just don’t make anymore—a party number that stomps and struts as if there is still nothing but a good time. The classic, AC/DC-inspired riffing and huge chorus soar on the wings of call-and-response verses that fight valiantly for their own right to party.
To hear Owens tell it, he was more than happy to apply his leather lungs to the remake.
“I loved singing on it, and I love doing things that are a little bit out of the box for me,” he says. His final verdict? “A real fun and good hard-rocking tune!”
Having Owens along for the ride, even temporarily, is a major step in the upward trajectory of MJM guitarist and creative kingpin Michael J. Miller. Formerly the brains and fingers behind the cult metal acts Rapid Tears (whose albums Honestly and Cry for Mercy are now distributed by European label Sonic Age Records) and Adrenalin (heard on Dedicated, released by Germany’s Long Island Records), Miller founded MJM to better convey his keen musical vision. With a lineup that’s rounded out by bassist Zsolt Henczely, drummer Tom Eakin and vocalist Stephany Dudas, the Toronto-based quartet has released four full-length records of its own—three of them that balance lyrically poignant singles with guitar-based instrumentals, and a fourth that’s made up entirely of hard-hitting wordless explorations.
Their most recent collection, MJM IV—a loose concept album about the consequences of space travel—led into the more straightforward mayhem of “Live It Up,” which was produced by Tom Atom at TomAtom Recording Studios in Toronto and is now getting a new lease on life thanks to Owens’ amped-up reworking.
“The lyric concept is ‘life is short,’ Miller explains. “‘Live It Up’ is about having a good time and keeping a positive outlook on the challenges we face. We’re in it to win it!”
And MJM know something about winning, having earned Best Rock Song honors 14 times at the Akademia Music Awards in Hollywood. Over the past five years, they’ve also netted the competition’s Akademia Executive Award, Artist Vision Award, Rising Star Award and (both in 2022) its Outstanding Legacy Award and Rock Artist of the Year award. In 2023, the band was inducted into the Akademia Music Hall of Fame.
With a new album on the way, the success streak—and the party—look like they’ll never stop. Seize the day, and don’t forget to invite the neighbors!
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Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.
Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com
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