How I ended playing bass as my primary instrument...

So I've been asked a lot recently how I settled on playing bass as my main instrument.

Well, I started taking piano and organ lessons when I was about 8 years old with Mrs. Heatley, the organist at one of the neighbourhood churches. As a short sighted kid, I stopped taking lessons after 2 years, but continued to noodle on my own with the "toy" keyboard my parents had provided for my sister to take lessons on. 

Fast forward a few years to age 12. All the kids at school were learning to play guitar. At church though, we were starting to move beyond organ and piano with drums, guitar, and you guessed it, bass guitar. I initially decided I wanted to be the bass player. My dad bought me first an acoustic guitar, then an electric guitar and an amp from an older guy in my youth group who was upgrading his guitar rig (I still have that amp today too!) At church, I was able to trade off duties back and forth on guitar and bass with Stephen Lewis (y'know, that guy who was MD for Sharon Riley and Faith Chorale)...he was a huge influence. Guys like Glen Myers and Orinn Isaacs were passing through Oakwood Wesleyan as well. Some great music was to be heard during the 80's (and up through today!)

I decided to join a neighbourhood youth group and eventually attended their Sunday services as well. There I was introduced to "Christian Rock" and bands like "Daniel Band" and "The Resurrection Band". Gradually, I got "seduced" by the guitar, and that became my primary instrument during the late 80s/early 90s. I joined a few bands playing rhthym guitars and doubling on keyboards as well. Sundays I'd take my rotation on piano (shoulda stuck with those piano lessons!) I took guitar in high school for the easy credit, but dropped it in the 2nd year due to boredom. 

Beyond highschool, I started a few bands met some great musicians, they didn't really take off though. Switched churches, they already had great guitarists and bass players though, so I took my place on keys and organ once again, and so I shifted my focus once again instrumentally.

Let's fast forward a few years. I'd joined a band with a few friends as the keyboard player, we had two guitars, keys, and drums. I'd fake the bass line with my left hand, but for one song it just wasn't cutting it. I grabbed a bass that was laying around the practice space and we ran through the song with me on bass. I wish I remember what song that was now...anyway, I was "fired" as the keyboard player on the spot and "hired" as the bass player!

I haven't looked back since. I've always been groove/rhythm oriented, I think it's really where I was meant to be all these years. I don't neglect the other instruments I know how to play, and enjoy playing piano for the local school choir when asked and I enjoy playing guitar as well. I'll play keys when needed at church as well.

But for me, bass is where it's at. Took me a long time to realise it, but for the last 12 years it has been and will remain my main instrument. Just love playing bass. #MTD4LYFE #GKAllDay 

That's it for this evening's post kiddies. Blessings!

+A.J. Smith 

So the big announcement was...

Beyond honoured and proud of my new and official association with MTD Kingston Basses! If you choose to play one of these fine instruments, you will not be disappointed! Please feel free to ask any questions about MTDs; if I don't know the answer, I'll find out for you!

Blessings, 

RevGroove

I'm baaaaaaaaaack.... :)

Wow...it's been such a long time since I've posted...and the last post was by a guest blogger!!

Well, that's gonna change! I'm back at the music thang full force now that my shoulder has healed and other life stuff has started to settle down...I'm baaaaaaack!!

I have BIG announcement to share in the next little bit...and then I'm going to be blogging pretty regularly! And only this blog, and it will be only bass and/or music related posts moving forward...sound cool? 

Look forward to reconnecting...blessings!!

@RevGroove

The Meaning of Life is ____________________

Happy New Year! 

It's been another minute, but you will hear from me more this year, I promise! This first blog though, please welcome guest blogger, friend, co-worker, and fellow musical artist extraordinaire Bianca Bernardi! I saw her NY post and she graciously allowed me to re-post it here-

               The meaning of life is ____________________.

With the beginning of a new year, many of us take the time to ponder this question. What is the meaning of our life? What is our main purpose here? The joy of January 1st is that we have the socially accepted opportunity to start fresh - to simply scratch everything that we have done in the past and begin again. Henry Ward Beecher said, “Every man should be born again on the first day of January. Start with a fresh page.”. 

So here is my challenge to you… Figure out what the meaning of your life is. At least the one you are currently living. At this moment, what is the meaning of YOUR life?Instead of setting all of these limitations for yourself on what you cannot/allegedly “shouldn’t” do this year (eat chocolate, swear, watch marathons of Say Yes To The Dress etc.), take January 1st as a chance to do some self-reflecting in a positive manor. 

Instead of saying “no, no, no”, say, “what, what, what”. As in what do I want to accomplish this year? Or what do I feel are my best personality traits and how can I utilize them to grow and develop further this year? Or better yet, what is the meaning of my life and why? 

Take this wonderful gift of a new start and do the best you can to make yourself the happiest you have ever been. Remember that life is truly a beautiful gift and should be enjoyed every single moment of every single day EVERY single year. 

Be happy - you were made to be. Love and Happy New Beginning. Xo

“Don’t look further for answers: be the solution. You were born with everything you need to know. Make a promise to stop getting in the way of the blessing that you are. Take a deep breath, remember to have fun, and begin.” 

-Jonathan H. Ellerby

Thanks B! You can check out Bianca at her YouTube Channel or like her Facebook Fan Page!

I'll be back SOON! Blessing's on all y'all!

RevGroove

Whoa, it's been more than a min...

...6 days after my last post here, my world fell apart. I took an overdue break from gigging, and in fact haven't played bass during that time while I tried to reclaim what's been lost (deets in my other two blogs)

Well, that's about to change.

Gonna "get back in shape" over the next few months, and then come back, hopefully better, wiser, and more TASTY than before.

It will be on a limited basis though, because my four kids need to come first before everything.

I'll keep you posted...blessings!

The Rev

February Update

Yikes, more than 6 weeks since the last post!

Did a gig with @DavidJuliet this past Friday at the RockPile, it was pretty hype! Being first is no fun though...hoping to go back, be a little later in the night and have a bigger crowd! Danial Cowans was on Keys and Brooke Nicholls sat on on BGV, it was good!

Looking forward to working with Honee Haye and other Voices Ent. artists...if you have Shaw, check her out on Urban Star...I'll post the link to the website later.

Always hunting gigs, students, and opportunities to make an earning from music...so hit me up!

Blog soon...blessings!

The Bishop of Bass- Rev. AJ Groove!

Looking Forward; Christmas Greetings!

Well, it's been a minute or two since I last wrote. Unfortunately, the day after my last post, my dad passed away.

He was a good man, lived a full life, and while we mourn our own personal loss, we CELEBRATE his life!

He was an author, and I have his unfinished work to edit and complete. In addition, we'd talked about putting some of his poetry to my music; we'll hopefully have some stuff on both those fronts to share in 2012.

In the meantime, working on the new project (see Dec. 3rd 2012 post) and updating some stuff on my Numubu profile. Every working musician should consider one...if you need or want an invite, holler at me!

As usual, looking for opportunities to gig, teach, etc. so hit me up...MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

The Bishop Rev. AJ Groove

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Now playing: Sarah Story - The Advent Song
via FoxyTunes

Finally, RevGroove has come BACK to Blogspot!

What's up fam? Been a minute...like more than 9 months, eh? Well, it's my b-day on Monday, and I've decided not to wait until Dec. 31st...my New Year's starts NOW!

So I'm going to blog more often, but in smaller posts...quick, in and out, done (no "that's what she said" or "sounds like my first time" jokes please!)

Just working on my Numubu profile http://www.numubu.com/profile.php?id=96333


Looking for new gigs, new opportunities...still working on some current projects (in one way or another), but it's time to stir the pot! 

Also, I'm putting together an outfit for corporate events to back any/all of the various artists I work/have worked with, if you're interested in rates and availability for your event, contact me! It's all about musicianship yo!

Need a bass player? Look no further...call me. Text me. Tweet me  . Facebook me...MySpace me...nah, it's played out, I've stopped using it, to be honest...but the deal is, I'm ready, willing, and able to back up artists and/or fill in on a sub basis (R&B, Funk, Hip Hop, Gospel, Motown, Top 40)


Looking forward to this new year...it's only going to get better!


BE BLESSED!


Rev AJ Groove
];o)

10 Apps Every Gigging Urban Musician should have! PT.2

Whew! Been awhile! Hope everyone had great Holidays, Happy New Year, and alla dat!

Okay, time to finish off the 10 'Apps...I'm probably going to go more bass centric here, but bear with me as I'm sure there's equivalents for other instruments.

Okay, so in PT. 1, we discussed getting the gig, getting the gig organised, getting to the gig, and communicating.

So, once you get to the gig, you set up and you need to tune. I use a Petersen StrobFlip Tuner on my pedal board, but for the smaller gigs where I don't bring it, I'll bring along my iRig interface and plug into my iPhone to access iStrobosoft:

Super accurate, quick, gets it right every time, just as good as one of the hardware options IME! Definitely a must have. I'd also recommend T.C. Electronics' PolyTune App; you can strum all the bass strings at once and it will tell you which one(s) needs to be adjusted...okay, here's a screen shot:

I try to warm up my hands a bit with some exercises before gigs (not as often as I should, granted); I have a few metronomes on my iPhone to help with that (I'm from the school where timing is an important part of practicing...unless it's free jazz, natch! Discussion for another blog...) So again, using the iRig and some in-ear head phones, I'll do some scales and warm ups using "Metronome Reloaded":

I have two others that I won't name that I'm going to delete because I don't use them...if you have any other suggestions, throw them my way please!

If you're on a gig and you get thrown an odd ball song you maybe have to figure out chords on the fly...someone might say "after the head hit a Db Min...open tuning..." and the guitarist may say "huh?" Whip out Planet Waves' Chordmaster LE App and you can show them how it's done!

(Note: this is just an example, not a knock on guitar players or an alleged lack of theoretical knowledge on their part...again, perhaps a blog for another time? To be fair, there's a keyboard version as well, Chord Board:

Before the gig, during breaks, I usually chill with the band, if I'm the MD I may be checking with the client or the manager of the venue...otherwise, I may want to play a game or something to pass the time if it's an especially long break...so I mess around with something productive to keep my mind in the game so to speak. Sight Reading Trainer Bass App helps me improve on my reading skills (which is admittedly the weakest area of my skill set, but improving greatly!)

Great way to pass the time and sharpen up, killing two birds with one stone!

Actually, a good "all in one" trainer is the Gibson L&M (Learn and Master) Guitar App. It has a tuner, a metronome, chord trainer, and links to guitar lesson videos...supper cool!

With the exception of the tuners, all of these apps are for the low low price of...FREE! So check em out, see what you think and make a comment! Any suggestions for useful apps for the gigging musician, please share!

As I come closer to the completion of my bass pedal effects board (just waiting on the MXR Bass Compressor to hit the production line) I'll begin a series of blogs giving my take on each of the individual pedals, ending with my take on the whole ensemble. Sound cool?

Until next time...keep it low and phat, eh? Peace!

The RevGroove

P.S. I need to upgrade my iPhone 3G...love it, but too slow, especially compared to 3GS and 4G models...and then 5G is rumoured to be coming out this summer? So the thought is to pick up a used 3GS (or an NOS one that I can sell) and then upgrade when the new model comes out...if you have any ideas where I can pick one of these up at a decent (read: inexpensive) price, please comment and let me know, peace!

10 Apps Every Gigging Urban Musician should have! PT.1

So, having an iPhone, and grabbing apps, I've found a few useful ones that I want to pass along...

I'm all about networking, I'm really excited about "Just Gig It":

Everyone who's a musician and wants to get gigs or needs to hire players should have this app! For example, I need a keyboard player to cover a gig in a couple of weeks, I load the deets into Just Gig It (venue, artist, pay rate, date and time) I click send, and all the keyboard players in my address book get a text message asking if they're available to take the gig, I'll get some text messages back, and the gig is booked! Works for one spot, or to hire an entire band for a show!

Next up is Trapster:

You're late for the gig, you want to avoid those speed traps, red light cameras, etc...this is the app for you. It works best when there are others in the area using it and feeding info to the system.

You can also use it to get directions to your gig, and it will also show you how busy traffic is (red is heavy traffic, green traffic is moving well...)

This is NOT an encouragement to drive like an idiot...this is an app to be used wisely, not to speed excessively and avoid getting caught breaking the law. Use with care!

Another "community" based app like it is Zero Fine:

Living in Burlington ON, my experience with Parking By-Law enforcement has been less than positive (that's a whole other blog post) Zero Fine lets you keep track of Parking Enforcement, so you can move before your time is up, run out and put more cash in the meter, and take other actions to avoid running out of time and getting a fine, or worse having your car towed and being stranded at the gig!

HeyTell is like the "Mike" network, only for iPhone:

Texting while driving is illegal where I live (Ontario, Canada), and I must say rightly so...using your cell is illegal at all unless it's a totally handsfree operation, so use this at your own risk while driving...but IMO/IME, a quick way to get in touch once you familiarize yourself with the app...

...I include this on my list because instead of texting, I can push and hold one "button" and send a voice message to band members rather than texting or dialling numbers...and getting stopped for a ticket...again, making me late for the gig!

We'll round off part one with TimmyMe:

Several times, I've gone to the venue and loaded in, set up, sound check, and then have an hour or two to kill before people arrive and/or we start the first set...always good to know where the local Tim's is to grab a quick coffee or snack...if I'm not familiar with the neighbourhood, I can always ask...but I value my independence, and we (KeysNKrates) did almost drive off the end of an unfinished road due to local directions in Quebec (see previous blog post from 2009), so this is an app I use hard when I'm jonesing for a coffee before go time!

Stay tuned for Part II, where I'll concentrate on Apps (and an iPhone accessory or two that you can use either preparing for a gig, or actually you could USE on a gig!

Until next time, peace!

Rev. Groove

Support YFC/Youth Unlimited in Waterdown

Hey guys, from time to time I'm going to devote this space to a good cause. This time out it's YFC/Youth Unlimited, an organisation that works with students in the local high school (in this case Waterdown District High School and the Waterodown community). I've known Marcel for almost ten years; he's a great friend, and a wicked drummer (and everyone knows I'm super picky about drummers!)

A big part of of his outreach is the music studio run out of the basement at his home which also doubles as the Ministry Centre for YFC...until the Waterdown Youth Centre is built. This grant would go a long way to helping establish this centre.

Please register, and vote once a day...and otherwise, please consider donating to the cause, thanks!

Hello all,

Waterdown YFC Youth Unlimited has just submitted an application to the Aviva Community Fund, a competition that makes funds available of up to $1,000,000 to create positive change in communities across Canada. If our application receives enough votes, it could share in that prize as much as $100,000 which we could use toward the ministry Youth Centre. We would really appreciate your vote.

1. Each person is allowed 10 votes per round

2. You can only vote once per day per idea submitted (please start today).

3. you will need to register your name and email address the first time only.

4. please click on the link below and vote each day to show your support of upto $100,000 being given to the Waterdown YFC Youth Centre.

5. Please pass this to all your friends and have them vote for us, the most votes wins.

Please vote for my idea at http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf6501?sms_ss=email&at_xt=4caca7e018496e4b,0

Share this email with your friends or anyone else you know who might want to help bring my idea to life.

Thanks in advance,

Arlene Reemeyer-Nagy

Waterdown YFC/Youth Unlimited

Satellite Director

www.yfcwaterdown.com

Marcel Knot

Campus Life Director

YFC/Youth Unlimited - Waterdown

Phone:289-439-3411

www.yfcwaterdown.com

we see the hope and potential in every young person

"We see the hope and potential in every young person"

Peace.

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. —John 14:27 NLT

Brooke Nicholls and da Boyz at the Rivoli this Saturday night!

Hey, check it out:

We're probably going to be going on about 8:30ish, and there's some other cool bands on the bill...look forward to seeing you there!

What's new...

Man, I need to start blogging more than once a month! @jomarbassman is cranking them out once almost every other day it seems, and it's all ways fresh! Follow his Twitter and check his blog, it's good stuff!

On the music front: Brooke Nicholls' Set at The Opera House August 7th was off the hook...so much that they asked us to come back Sept. 3rd (all ages, $15 in advance, $20 at the door)) and Sept. 4th at the Rivoli (+19, no advance sales, $10 at the door) We're working on an arrangement where you may be able to purchase one ticket for both shows, more on that later!

Really having a fun time with this band BTW...great bunch of guys (and gal!), and we're having a great time putting together the live show and playing off each other's strengths...that aforementioned Aug. 7 show won us some free recording at Chalet Studio (a division of Chalet Communications); looking forward to spending some time there banging out Brooke's next hit tune!

Checked in with my old pal Matisse this past week (on Facebook, natch); he's a busy guy, not only working on new solo material but simultaneously working on a new mixtape with Keys N Krates; hoping to get a chance to work with either or both acts sometime again, those were good days that I hope will come around again!

Still no luck on locating my missing ZX, or the other three instruments and the pedals that went with it...I've taken up the Electric Upright Bass (EUB) to "comfort" myself in my time of loss...did I say comfort? Let's correct that with CHALLENGE myself! It's a different mindset and a totally different set of finger muscles that are used. I've messed around with EUBs and 3/4 acoustic uprights at the store, but not over any length of time, like now. So glad I started using the SIMANDL method of fingering (1-2-4) over OFPF (one finger per fret) on electric bass awhile back, it's made the transition a LOT easier than what I hear it would have been...however, it's a great stretch (no pun intended, though the term is quite accurate), and I'm looking forward to adding that skill-set to my palette...gotta get a bow and start working on that too!

Capstone Recording Studios is up and running (please note that while it housed in the same building, it is a separate entity of Capstone Lesson Studios, so no worries/concerns about conflict with my day gig, okay?) Contact me at 905-320-3593 or by e-mail for rates and availability, I think you'll be happy with what we can accomplish there!

Continuing to work on stuff for the fall with 24/7...the summer rock series is going really well, come out this Sunday Aug. 22nd, the cover tune is "My Generation" by The Who; immediately after the service, we're going to have a coffee house in the Upper Room Cafe with Bianca Bernardi of Burlington, ON bring us an acoustic set! Don't miss it, this young lady is awesome and you want to say twenty years from now that you were there!

More stuff coming this fall, including a project that I'll give more details on next time around...really excited!!!...until next time, hopefully it won't be too long this time!!!

Long overdue update...

Wow, it's been a minute, eh? Okay by the numbers...

...got the Wyres Strings on my MTD Kingston Z5...went with an uncoated set for the first time since I switched from SloWounds about 4 years ago (still don't get why D'Addario stopped making them, it sez right here that D'Addarios are NOT the same!); so far, so good! Like the feel of them, they sound solid...longevity will be the next test! I've been charting for some sessions, I have a rehearsal and show Thursday and Friday respectively (see below) and possibly a session on Saturday, I'll post an update after playing in a real life situation!

Did a session with Vic Crowl at Smile Studios in downtown Toronto and almost got stuck in the G20 madness...despite that, it was a great experience, looking forward to working with Vic and his clients again soon!

Friday night (July 16th), doing a set with Brooke Nicholls at the Hollywood in Toronto (1184 The Queensway between Kipling and Islington), event is by Steve Denyer's North Shore Entertainment Group . Tix are $10 at the door. We're on at 9 PM sharp, there's other great acts on the bill including Adam Cooke, Mark Cowie, Modify, The Waxmen, and Alright Alright...c'mon on down and check it out!

Then Sunday night (July 18), we're going acoustic with Brooke Nicholls in the URC (Upper Room Cafe) in the former Kingdom/NRG venue, now 24/7 Church, set time at 8PM. Cafe (non-profit) will be open, proceeds go towards supporting a mission in Membres, Mexico. We have a team down there right now helping with flood relief, come and enjoy some great music and support the cause! I'll be rockin' Breen's fretless Dean 6 for this show, looking forward to it!

(BTW, I'm now in charge of booking/renting 24/7 for events, if you want to hold a concert or show in Burlington's best live venue, give me a holler at 905-320-3593 and I'll hook you up!)

Next month, I'm playing with Brooke again Aug. 7th at the Opera House for another label showcase, details to follow! Sid's expanded his script, we're pulling the band back together to work on the musical! And Katelyn Dawn's eponymous EP is available for purchase and download, the lead single "Rescue Me" is already starting to get radio play!

Now a bit of sad news: some of you may have heard by now that one of my MTD ZXs, MTD Kingston ZX Ltd. Edition #31/30 (Trans black with a rosewood fretboard) was stolen from Capstone Music in Burlington during a smash and grab June 28th. I'd appreciate all eyes out for this one. This is not only part of a limited run, but a bit of an oddity due to the way the numbering went down. I have to two other MTDs, but it's still a loss, I'd love to get her back! The invitation is open to just bring it into L&M at 3180 Mainway Drive in Burlington, leave it on the front counter, and walk away. In fact, you can probably do that at any L&M in the GTA, they'll run the serial number and get it back to me...also stolen at the same time were a 4 string Ernie Ball MM Sub4 bass guitar in black finish (missing the preamp, no less,) also in Black Finish, a Stagg LP in Black Finish, and a Stagg Strat in Black Finish (see the theme here?) Thanks!

So, looking for students, gigs, session work, charting and arranging gigs...that number again is 905-320-3593! I'll keep you all posted, peace!

Rev. Groove

Wyre's Strings, Katelyn Dawn EP, Auditions...

Quick update:

-I've just joined the Wyres Strings family as an endorsing artist. Thanks to Nick and the rest of the Wyres team! I did a set up using their strings on one of my student's instruments, played them, fell in love with the sound and feel of them! Started asking questions, sent some e-mails back and forth, and the rest is history...in progress! Looking forward to working with them and playing their strings on my MTD Kingston Basses, as soon as my tech is free and my shipment arrives, they're going on and tracking on my solo EP will commence!

Speaking of solo EP's Katelyn Dawn's project is either about to go to final mix and master or possibly that's being done as I type this. I heard the second set of mixes and I'm pretty impressed at what's coming your way soon! Very excited to start playing some live shows! Also, Katelyn taped a segment for a show with The Discovery Channel this past fall, so be sure to watch the Discovery Channel on April 17^th at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Discovery HD.

I'll write more on this next week, but I'm auditioning for a pretty kicking GTA Corporate band next week. Hopefully I won't overbook myself this summer (potentially two bands, possibly more...recording studio project...EP...booking/managing...and most importantly my wife and four kids)...you know how they say "it's feast or famine?" I have a feeling the drought is over...let the feasting begin!

G.A.S. has reared it's ugly head...

So, as I sit down to write this, it's with a belly full of cake from my youngest's 3rd Birthday...Happy Birthday Riley! You're an awesome little kid! Daddy loves you!

Yeh, so I did a session week before last with Katelyn Dawn for her new E.P. ...pretty cool tunes, be sure to check it when it comes out! A couple of tunes needed something a little...different...so my good buddy Free from Forevertree lent me one of his axes, a Dean 6 string fretless with a an EMG45HZ in the neck spot, and a Seymour Duncan "Basslines" pickup at the bridge. I think the song and a half I used it on (one song has it all the way through, the other I played the chorus and bridge with my MTD Kingston Z5, the verses and the intro and outro were fretless...)

It really made a difference, thanks Free (AKA Geoff Breen!) I had a fretless previously, but I sold it along with some other axes to make room for my MTD Kingstons, of which i now have three...the pre-production rehearsals (glad we did those) and the session (nailed everything first take, just had to do some punchins on the fretless parts) made me realize it may be a good idea to have a fretless about on the regular...while I appreciate the 6 and I'll play it as long as I'm allowed, my fingers ain't long enough to really do it justice...reading up on Andrew Gouche's philosophy I flirted with the idea of a fretted six for a bit...but it just isn't ergonomically feasible (besides, you've probably heard the old saw: "what do you call a 6 string bass player? You don't...well, I guess you do if it's Gouche!!!)

So, I'm in the market for a 5 string fretless. The buyer of my old fretless bass, which indeed is a fine bass and modded with active electronics, has offerred to sell it back to me...however, I find that I'm spoiled by the assymetrical necks on my 'Kingstons(the ergonomic thing again! ). So I've politely declined and started looking about...it'll be awhile before I actually pull the trigger, but I figure I should do the research now rather than last minute!

So I was looking at a fretless MTD Kingston Z5 in Natural Finish at The Perfect Bass (was gonna post the pic, I'm sure James would be cool with it, but thought I better hold off on that for now...if he's cool with it, I'll edit it in later!)

Then though, I heard about the MTD Kingston Saratoga coming out of NAMM...I was super stoked...I had wanted to get one of the MTD J5s (Norm Stockton has number two, the model was later changed to Saratoga 5), but the price would have had me sleeping on the couch or in the car per Ms. Groove! So, here was a chance to get a Saratoga, and (hopefully!) still get tosleep in my nice, warm, quilt top mattressed bed!

The only things that gave me pause was the 34" scale. and the passive electronics...I haven't played a passive axe in over 20 years! Also, I'm pretty used to the 35" scale on my three current basses...going back and forth may not be so cool, y'know?

So I contacted the man himself to see what he thought...in his usual fashion, Mike Tobias was only too gracious and kind enough to take the time to respond to my question: Can you give me an idea of what I could expect tonally from the basswood used in the Saratoga vs. the mahogany/burled maple top in the Z5?


His reply: "The basswood will have a warmer smoother bottom end. The mahogany will have more mid range and a bit more focus on the bottom end."

Thanks Mike!

Still not quite sure...the Saratoga will be at a better price point (which Ms. Groove will appreciate!), but is it the right axe for me? No, don't suggest it...I did consider getting both, but I don't do enough fretless work to justify it...though if that changes, well, yeh sure I will! The goal is to pick the right axe to compliment my two ZXs and my Z5...

...aesthetically, the natural gloss Z5 will be a reverse mirror image of my ZX #26; an translucent black 'Saratoga would be a dark fraternal twin to ZX #31...but the sounds...and Long & McQuade doesn't carry MTDs currently, so I can't try before I buy...I gotta pick right and then live with it...

...so...what do YOU think? Aesthetics? Sound? Pricing? Give me your thoughts on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, or respond here in the comments section, or send me an e-mail...even if you're not a musician, give me your opinion please!

Rev. Groove

(P.S.)Working on a new long term business venture...details to follow soon!

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Now playing: Jarvis Church - Who Will Be Your Man
via FoxyTunes

Just a quick update...

Okay, by the numbers...

...working on pre-production for Katelyn Dawn's next EP, it's going to be pretty cool! Lot's of great players on this one, John House (percussion) and Adam Mainse (keys/piano) from the Heaven's Rehearsal Band, Josh Harris (drums) from the Trevor Howard Band (and tons of other great projects!), as well as Katelyn on acoustic guitar and vocals, and "Deadly" Tom Hamilton on lead guitar. I'm just playing bass on this one, it's being recorded and engineered at Brilliant Red Studios by Colin Lindgren and Rob Weaver, should be awesome! Contact Katelyn at katelyndawn@gmail.com (check out her YouTube channel as well!

Our MLM system, is growing steadily still...I'm now helping out with Communications and Public Relations so Ms. Groove can concentrate more on systems and generating more revenue streams. It's never too late to sign up, check it!

Working on set lists for different artists for live shows. Send me your set list, I'll learn it, and be ready to sub in on a gig or play that last minute show! Subbing in for regular bass players in their band is now by bread and butter as far as gigs go, so the increased time I have from not doing a steady gig is going into working on Norm Stockton's "Grooving for Heaven" DVD series (still dreaming of Berkleemusiconline.com's Bass Professional Certificate Program) and learning (quite literally!) HUNDREDS of songs! Thankfully, there's some overlap! So if you need a sub, call me! Also, if you're looking for a band to do a show or play an event, I can hook that up, so reach out and hit the digits! (905-320-3593)

Last note...I'm working on a recording studio venture with a very good...I'd say possibly my best/like a brother...friend...details to come in the coming weeks as we firm up the details, but I'm very excited about doing this! I'll definitely keep you posted on that, but expect killer gear, killer production values, and awesome rates!

Okay, back to learning tunes...peace!

The Rev

It's been a minute...

...just got over a sinus thing, though my head is still woozy...to be quite honest, I'm only going in to the office because it's the week before Christmas...don't want people to think I'm malingering for extra time off and all...

...so, I've been seeing a lot of get rich quick, home business type e-mails, posts, etc. Facebook, Twitter, MLMs...hard to tell which ones are real, and which aren't, which are scams, which are the real deal...if any.

One of my Facebook friends even got hacked and someone sent wall posts on his behalf to all of his friends...my advice to anyone would be to check out ANY "get rich" scheme thoroughly before you sign up...you get nothing for free, natch, so there's money they're asking for right? Make sure you're going to get something from your investment. Truth or Fiction and Snopes are two sites that I regularly use to see if something has been reported as a fraud or hoax (I wish everyone would use them before forwarding e-mails, and/or use the BCC field, but that's another post)

Ms. Groove found one (Global Domains International) after searching for months (years?) and is now a team leader and system builder. PowerpathGDI is growing in leaps and bounds (Ms. Groove actually developed the "Powerpath" team concept and the rotator that helps members build their teams) ...yes there is an investment each month, but we are seeing increasing payouts each month. It's not a get rich scheme, and it takes patience and hard work. The extra income is helping to pay down some bills and help us get ahead a bit, and the payout is increasing each month slowly but surely!

I got two more opportunities forwarded to me through Twitter this afternoon (which in part inspired this post.) Sure, I'll check them out...

(Bass news: MTD ZX Ltd. #31 of 30 is mine...I have fraternal twins and their tanned older brother!)

Getting back into the groove...

(So, I'm listening to the new Seth Horan CD, Clang & Chime (as part of his team of producers, I got four copies...if you're nice, I may share!) Kickin' tunes, excellent vocals and bass chops!

Still hoping to do Berklee Online at some point in the next 18 months...may have to fix my daughter's teeth first though...in the meantime, the pursuit of musical excellence continues!

Getting back into the groove, students are back, and this year they're all doing really well for the most part. So the question is, how do I keep MYSELF excited and into the groove? Without a steady gig/creative outlet, what to do?

Well teaching guitar and bass in itself helps. As a mostly self taught musician, going through the theory and practical aspects, disciplining myself to teach proper techniques is good in and of itself. Plus, gotta keep ahead of them! So I'm throwing myself into Norm Stockton's Grooving for Heaven Video series, it's great material...learning not only theoretical and practical techniques, but also healthier, ergonomic ways to play.

Also, going back to the other instruments I've learned, and looking at picking up new ones! I pulled out the acoustic and played and sang before a student arrived earlier this week, and something just clicked. Later that night, I pulled the keyboard out (I'd put it away after the reno thinking it takes up a bit of space and I don't use it that much, so I'd just pull it out and use it as needed) and set that back up, played some gospel tunes on that...love the slash chords and shots...and yeh, that's going to improve my skills not only as a bass player, but as a musician, composer, arranger, and producer as well...

...anddddd....we're back! Had to run my daughter to the E.R., bruised bone in her foot, no fracture thank goodness...so I'm picking up my train of thought roughly 4 hours after I started this...


...and so yeh, feeling a little more inspired! Listening to lots of stuff...jamming with lotsa folks when the opportunity for rise (again, no steady gig right now, so I'm available for hire yo!)...just soaking up as much as I can musically and having as much fun in life as better...all about getting into the groove...and getting to the point where I'm the best musician I can be! Word!



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Now playing: Seth Horan - So Sorry
via FoxyTunes

Has it really been that long???

Wow, it has been a minute, eh? No posts at all in September...what's been happening?

Well, the Groovin' for Heaven Bass Clinic at L&M was a success, despite the storm and tornado warnings that evening. Next night I got to see Norm play with Lincoln Brewster at a concert in Barrie, great show, plus I learned a lot just hanging out with the band and watching the show. They're all a great bunch of guys, look forward to hanging with them again sometime in the future (ambitious project, but on my list of things to work on next year is bringing Linc, Norm, and the boys to the SWO area for a worship conference/clinic...may take a couple of years to make it actually happen, but I'm going to get started!)

Did an old school private engagement with Matisse and the Playground last month as well. Great to play some of that old school classic funk, R&B, and dance tunes, it's been a while. Great also to hang out with my boys Maurice and Tune, hadn't seen them since June...and hadn't seen 88 Keys and Shezelle since the Valentine's Day gig! But it was like old times, we had the joint hopping like we do, and heard we may have a few more before the year's end, looking forward to that!

Also had the privilege of playing for my "baby" cousin Erica's wedding to Orville Smith two weekends ago (note: like my mother, Erica is also a Richardson who married a Smith)...it has been a LONG while since I played straight gospel chops, but again, like coming home. Interesting in that there was very little rehearsal (the rehearsal I showed up at I actually played keys for the two main vocalists to work on their parts and not bass!) but it came off great! The MC they hired for the reception was off the hook, I have his card somewhere and will post his information, but he was just hilarious: the letter from "Cousin Blacka Smith" was worthy of being on Comedy Central's Comedy Special, no doubt!

And, played in Barrie this past weekend with the Collective at the Barrie Connexus, and will be heading to Orillia this Sunday again. Those are always learning experiences, both from a playing perspective (no rehearsal, learn the tune cold on your own and just do it with the band) and also from a fellowship perspective. We (the band) have some pretty cool conversations, some serious, some not, some spiritual ("Jesus was not thinking about you when He was on the Cross"...seriously, think about it...)...yeh, just realised how much I missed doing the Connexus services with the guys, looking forward to doing more of those...

Picked up 3 new students (actually, 1 of them is a returning student after a 3 year break) so I now have 5 students total, with room for one or two more (call me!) Did a "barter" deal (exchange of lessons for services) and ended up with a.) a beautiful new floor to replace the carpet I threw down in the studio and b.) a heating duct run out to the studio; no more electric heater and astronomical Hydro Bill to go along with it. I'm checking into this concept of barter replacing cash...I can dig it...just gotta make sure all parties are aware of what is actually being bartered (a small hiccup that's in the process of being resolved...lesson learned!)

Gear stuff: Still alternating between the Traynor DB300T and the Gallien Krueger NEO1001/212 combo...both are Yorkville distributed, though Traynor is made by Yorkville...the DB300T is perfect for smaller gigs, and for gigs where I need a stage monitor and have limited cargo space (i.e. Connexus gigs) and it's great as a head in a situation where there's a cab in house (i.e. 24/7 Church)...however, I really love the sound/idea of 2x12 cabs, and the weight, preamp, and built in wheels and handles (read: easy to transport) make it ideal for club/corporate shows. So I'm just enjoying the best of both worlds (BTW, YSL stuff is available for interest free financing this month, so if you're looking for an amp...)

Still rocking (and loving) my MTD Kingston Z5 and ZX basses. Saddened that we're not currently carrying them in stock, but hoping that will change soon...want to get a fretless and a 6 string fretted at some point!

Okay, that's enough of an update...I'll try to holler at y'all again before not too long. Blessings and groove be with you, shalom!



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Now playing: J Moss - Operator
via FoxyTunes