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Introduction

Music, with its mesmerizing tunes and harmonies, can stir emotions and connect us. The string bass stands out for its deep and musical tones among the instruments that contribute to crafting these enchanting pieces. In this feature, we will delve into the captivating realm of the string bass, exploring its historical significance, craftsmanship, playing techniques, and diverse roles across various music genres.

Origins of the String Double Bass

You can trace the roots of the string bass back to 16th-century Europe. Initially referred to as “violone,” it was designed to complement string instruments like violins. As instrumental music gained popularity during the Baroque period, musicians sought more resonant sounds, leading to advancements in design and construction methods.

Craftsmanship of a String Double Bass

A crafted 5-string double bass is a work of art. Its substantial body comprises high-quality woods, such as spruce or maple, chosen for their resonance properties. However, the heart of this instrument lies in its soundboard, which is a piece positioned atop its body. This particular element plays a significant role in enhancing the vibrations created when strings are either bowed or plucked.

Playing Techniques

Mastering playing techniques is essential for making music on a string bass. One utilized method is bowing, where you draw the bow horsehair across the strings with movements to produce rich and mellow tones. Another technique involves plucking the strings with fingers or using plectrums, known as “pizzicato.” By employing these methods, musicians infuse their compositions with vitality and emotional depth.

Optimal Sound through String Selection:

The choice of strings greatly influences a string bass’s tone production and overall performance. Various string types, including the gut, steel core, core, and hybrid options, are available on the market. Each material offers qualities and varying levels of longevity. Musicians must experiment with strings to discover the match for their sound preferences.

The String Double Bass across Musical Genres

A string bass has carved itself a place in musical genres, from orchestras to jazz ensembles to folk bands and rock concerts. In music settings, harmony and rhythm often serve as the cornerstone of an ensemble. Its deep frequencies provide a foundation upon which instruments can build melodies. In jazz, double bass players usually take the spotlight with captivating solos or by laying down walking bass lines that drive the rhythm forward.

While the double bass is an instrument that fits into music genres, playing a string double bass can be physically demanding due to its large size and weight. Musicians must maintain posture and technique to prevent strain or injuries.

Caring for Your String Double Bass

Proper maintenance is crucial to keeping your string bass in top condition for years, as is caring for any instrument. Here are some critical tips for looking after this instrument:

1. Cleaning: Make it a habit to clean your string bass regularly to remove dirt, rosin residue, and oils from your fingers. Use a cloth to wipe down the body and strings after each practice session.

2. Storage: When your double bass is not in use, store it away from varying temperatures, high humidity, and direct sunlight. Keeping it in a padded case or gig bag will protect it from bumps or dings.

3. Instrument Adjustments: Environmental factors may change how your instrument plays over time. Professional bass players often collaborate closely with makers known as luthiers to make adjustments such as enhancing string height, tweaking the bridge’s position, or replacing worn-out components like tailpieces and pegs. These routine inspections can help uphold performance during play.

In Essence

The double bass fills concert venues with melodies and adds a rich depth and resonance to our beloved musical compositions. This initial exploration into its background construction methods, playing techniques considerations for selecting strings, and its role across music genres offers captivating insights into the world of this grand instrument.

Whether you’re a budding musician mastering this instrument or just a fan captivated by its presence on stage or in recordings, the next time you hear a beautiful melody played on the double bass, close your eyes and allow yourself to drift away by its majestic harmonies.

Spellbinding and spectacular, the veteran Scottish rock band Simple Minds rolled into Bournemouth with an absolute bang. The group were on sparkling form and their eighteen track setlist which was predominantly centered around the 80’s entertained from start to finish.

The sold out crowd were also treated to a fantastic set from fellow Scottish rockers Del Amitri who did a sterling job in warming up the crowd. Lead singer Justin Currie regaled the audience with his story of his trip on Bournemouth’s wheel which was ‘shit!’ (apparently as all you could see was the beach! )Fair point Justin!

Pithy observations aside, Justin and the rest of the band put on a soulful and mesmerising set which included ‘Always the Last To Know’, and exquisite version of ‘Driving With The Brakes On’, ‘Missing Person’ and a rousing rendition of ‘Nothing Ever Happens’ which included a beautiful accordion solo. 

With over 40 years smashing the music industry, the band led by Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill (two of the original members) opened the show with fan favourite ‘Waterfront’ which got the enraptured crowd onto their feet and dancing like it was 1983 all over again.

This was superbly followed up by ‘Love Song’ and a fantastuc surprise inclusion in the shape of ‘Sweat In Bullet’ which was performed for the first time since 2013. Their career-spanning set ignited excitement from the get go with the inclusion of ‘Big Sleep’, ‘All The Things She Said’ and the stunning ‘Promised You A Miracle’.

Jim Kerr as always was charming and jovial, regularly conveying his gratitude to the audience for ‘coming to see Simple Minds. Of course, there was some dancing from the charismatic frontman and he traversed every single inch of the stage to connect with the excited crowd.

There were quieter moments such as when the band performed ‘Belfast Child’ which captures the heart and imagination from the first few notes. Always hauntingly beautiful, Jim Kerr stripped it all back to deliver a heart-wrenching version of what is already an emotive song, all eyes were on Jim and he effortlessly managed to combine both delicacy and strength into a perfect vocal. It was powerful, poignant and absolute perfection lyrically and performance wise.

As true musical pioneers, the band are no strangers to touring the world and remain a prolific touring band that delivers both epic music complete with an expansive production. Every band member played their part and had their chance to shine from the phenomenal drummer Cherisse Osei who poured every iota of passion and power into her drum solo and nearly tore the roof off.

Vocalist Sarah Brown delivered a breathtaking performance of ‘Book Of Brilliant Things’ which showcased her pristine vocals and similarly to when Jim performed ‘Belfast Child’, you could have heard a pin drop.

Throughout the show, Jim, Charlie and the band delivered a masterclass in performance and storytelling. It was energetic, majestic and thrilling throughout with even more fan favourites being expertly delivered such as ‘See The Lights’, ‘Alive and Kicking’ and of course, the one that always brings the house down ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me)’ which spanned a whopping seven minutes long.  Jim joked with the audience that he didn’t want them to go home yet with the offer to perform ‘one more song’ which then segued into three or four! 

We didn’t want to go home one bit and their fantastic encore concluded with the ever-wonderful ‘Sanctify Yourself’.

With Simple Minds, it’s always a tour de force performance, and their gig in Bournemouth was an exhilarating and sublime experience. 

Photo Credit: Allan Jones @rockstarimages

Boisterous, brilliant and breathtaking, the highly-anticipated tour to showcase Liam Gallagher and John Squire’s titular album catapulted its way into London at the O2 Forum Kentish Town and what a night it was!

With palpable energy, the sold-out crowd were crying out for their musical heroes long before Liam, John and the rest of the band even set foot on the stage. The audience were suitably calmed by the presence of singer-songwriter Jake Bugg who put on a stellar performance, with just him and his acoustic guitar taking centre stage.

Jake’s set which included ‘Trouble Town’, ‘All Kinds Of People’ and a rousing rendition of his much-loved track ‘Lightning Bolt’ was the perfect way to soothe the soul and it certainly got the crowd into the mood for the main event.

A little after 9pm, the Madchester masters sauntered on stage, with Liam resplendent in a white adidas Spezial cagoule alongside the rest of the band which included Barrie (Little Barrie) Cadogan, Joey Waronker and Christian Madden.

Opening with the euphoric ‘Just Another Rainbow’, the crowd sang along enthusiastically during the song’s refrain whilst John Squire, enigmatic as always served up a swirling psychedelic-infused guitar which effortlessly complimented Liam’s vocals. 

The colour theme continued with Liam asking ‘Hands up who wants the blues?’ to which the crowd responded with an unequivocal yes (who could possibly say no?!), saw music’s most exciting partnership segue into the brilliant ‘I’m a Wheel’ with its distinctive 12-bar riff and its driving, sultry bass line delivered superbly by Little Barrie.

The punk puissance-infused ‘I’m So Bored’ saw Liam complete with plenty of swagger and punchy, acerbic soundbites describing all the things that bore him (war, peace, your kids and the buses to name but a few!)

His contempt for things can also be found in ‘Make It Up As You Go Along’ with the sucker punch of a line ‘Thank you for the thoughts and prayers, and fuck you too!’. Who knew that snarky bon mots and fuck yous could be so utterly absorbing?!

In full throttle and with the crowd in the palm of their hands,  the Gallagher Squire set navigated from the hook-filled chorus of ‘Mars To Liverpool’ to a formidable and emotional rendition of ‘Mother Nature’s Song’, delighting fans at every single note and chord. Liam remains a tour de force both in delivering pristine vocals but sublime showmanship too. 

Their self-titled album is only ten tracks long, so invariably it was only ever going to be a short but sweet set, but good things come in small packages and whilst the crowd were hankering for more, the band reappeared for a barnstorming encore which showcased the only cover of the night, a blistering rendition of ‘Jumpin’ Jack Flash’ which saw Liam toss his maracas into the crowd (not a euphemism!) at the finale where he, John Squire and the rest of the band received a roaring standing ovation.

Without a doubt, the partnership of Liam Gallagher and John Squire translates effortlessly into a live setting and their 50 minute set was an electrifying and unmissable experience.

Photo Credit: Adam Hampton Matthews

What can we expect from Yellow Days’ new album?

Well hello and welcome to ‘Hotel Heaven’, the new decadent and captivating album from Yellow Days. The highly-anticipated album which drops on April 5th has captured the attention of both the music press and fans alike after the release of the album’s first single ‘Mrs Midnight’.

Yellow Days has harnessed his own unique blend of bold off-kilter psychedelic indie-pop which is teamed with sumptuous soul and seductive funk. Sonically, this feels like Yellow Days has taken the disco funky grooves of Sly Stone mixed with the lo-fi sensibilities of Tame Impala.

But despite the pure danceability of this record by Yellow Days, there’s still a lot of heart and emotional grit in the mix, garnering this record a true uniqueness. Recorded entirely in his flat in East London, Yellow Days AKA George van den Broek also played every single instrument on the album as well as programming the drums.

‘Hotel Heaven’ is Yellow Days’ third studio album and his first since 2020’s ‘A Day in A Yellow Beat’ and his EP ‘Inner Peace’ in 2022. Positioned as a concept album, ‘Hotel Heaven’ spirits you away to an otherworldly, transcendental escape where the jaded and confused decamp to a life of indulgence. There’s Yellow Days’ trademark humour in there with lyrics that tell the story of a matriarchal concierge (who is God like character) who spends her downtime between shifts chain-smoking and typing eviscerating picture postcard portraits of its guests.

Symbolising how people take comfort that is not real and all is not as it seems, as the album develops it’s apparent that there’s more than meets the eye at ‘Hotel Heaven’ and comparisons have been made to ‘The Shining’ and ‘Twin Peaks’ in terms of influence.

In a statement, Yellow Days – aka George van den Broek – says, “‘HOTEL HEAVEN’ represents fake comfort in all its forms, this whole bullshit idea of luxury where nothing is real. I wanted to write about everything that is happening right now – this TikTok age where everyone wants to be famous. It’s also a big 360 of my life and career to date. I wanted to get away from everything I’d done before, wash my face and start afresh.”

‘Hotel Heaven’ is out on April 5th and you can also catch Yellow Days on tour which includes a landmark London show at KOKO.

Perennially charming with oodles of energy, this was my third time reviewing Miles Kane and once again the charismatic musician did not disappoint. You can always rely on an energetic and uplifting set from Miles who was supported by The Royston Club. 

The Welsh quartet were on spectacular form and having been an integral part of the live circuit in recent years (including a stint at Glastonbury) they set the stage alight performing some of their most recent tracks from their 2023 album ‘Shaking Hips and Crashing Cars.

They clearly are having  the time of their lives and impressed the audience at Southampton’s Engine Rooms performing tracks like ‘Mrs Narcissistic’, ‘Blisters’ and ‘The Deep End’. This was a stellar showcase of delivering solid indie rock bangers and these Welsh wonders are certainly on the rise.

This was my second time seeing Miles at The Engine Rooms which is something of a South Coast faithful when it comes to music venues. Two years ago, Miles was promoting his fantastic album ‘Change The Show’ which was one of my favourite albums of 2022. However, this tour was very much focused on tracks from his most recent album ‘One Man Band.’ which came out last August.

‘Troubled Son’ was a triumph and showcased both his songwriting skills (he co wrote this with Tom Ogden from Blossoms) which is an emotional track about self reflection and inner conflict.

The titular track was delivered with sophistication and style as was ‘Baggio’ and ‘The Wonder’. All of the tracks on ‘One Man Band’ have bite and are intoxicating and visceral. Kane’s fifth studio album is an indie rockers playbook, chock full of bangers that are festival essentials and he performed all of the album tracks effortlessly.

Showcasing his musician versatility, the sold-out audience were treated to rousing renditions of tracks from his previous albums such as ‘Cry on My Guitar’ and ‘Coup de Grace’ from 2018’s album ‘Coup de Grace ‘which are Kane mainstays.

‘Rearrange’ and ‘Colour of the Trap’ were sublime and the set’s closers consisted of ‘Come Closer’ and ‘Don’t Forget Who You Are’, both of which were electrifying and formidable renditions.

Miles and his band delivered a sensational set, he always serves up a dynamic and crowd-pleasing performance and he has an undeniable stage presence that showcases why he is one of the UK’s best live acts.

The demand for portable and versatile gadgets is rising in a world where technology intertwines seamlessly with our daily lives. One such gadget that has become an essential companion for outdoor enthusiasts is the portable speaker. These compact audio devices have redefined how we experience our adventures, bringing music and entertainment to remote corners of the world. Muzen has carved a niche with its innovative designs and top-notch performance among the many options available.

The Rise of Portable Speakers

Portable speakers have become synonymous with on-the-go entertainment. Whether hiking through dense forests, lounging on a pristine beach, or having a picnic in the park, a portable speaker can instantly transform the atmosphere. The compact size, wireless capabilities, and durable build make these speakers the perfect travel companion for those who seek a blend of technology and adventure.

Unveiling the Muzen Magic

Enter Muzen, a trailblazer in the world of portable speakers. Their commitment to quality and innovation has resulted in a line of products catering to outdoor enthusiasts’ diverse needs. The Muzen Magic lies in the sound it produces and the thoughtful design that complements the outdoor lifestyle.

Unmatched Portability

Muzen has mastered creating compact speakers that maintain sound quality. The lightweight design and easy portability make these speakers ideal for those who are always on the move. Slip it into your backpack, and you have a concert at your fingertips, wherever your adventures take you.

Bluetooth Brilliance

One standout feature of Muzen speakers is their seamless Bluetooth connectivity. Pairing your device with the speaker is a breeze, eliminating the hassle of tangled wires. This wireless technology lets you control your playlist from a distance, ensuring the speaker stays at the heart of the action without being tethered to your phone or music player.

Embracing the Muzen Radio Experience

Beyond the portable speaker, Muzen also offers a unique radio experience for those who appreciate the charm of traditional broadcasts. The Muzen Radio combines vintage aesthetics with modern technology, delivering a delightful blend of old-school nostalgia and contemporary convenience.

Retro Vibes, Modern Performance

The Muzen Radio series showcases a commitment to preserving the retro charm of classic radios. These radios are a visual delight with a design that pays homage to the golden age of broadcasting. But don’t be fooled by the vintage exterior; underneath, they pack a punch with crystal-clear sound and advanced features.

Tune In Anywhere

Imagine tuning in to your favorite radio station while camping in the mountains or relaxing by the lake. The Muzen Radio allows you to embrace the simplicity of radio broadcasting wherever you go. It’s not just a gadget; it’s a portal to a bygone era, offering a unique auditory experience that transcends time.

Finding Your Muzen Magic

For those eager to embark on a journey with Muzen, the online store is a gateway to premium retro portable speakers and Bluetooth radios. The diverse range of products shows the brand’s commitment to delivering a superior audio experience. From the compact and travel-friendly portable speakers to the charming Muzen Radio series, there’s something for every adventure seeker.

In a world saturated with options, Muzen distinguishes itself through its cutting-edge technology and dedication to aesthetics and user experience. It’s not merely about buying a portable speaker; it’s about investing in a companion that enhances the quality of your outdoor escapades.

Conclusion

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of portable audio, Muzen stands out as a beacon of innovation and excellence. The Muzen Magic is not just about sound; it’s about elevating your outdoor adventures to new heights. So, whether you’re a rugged explorer or a laid-back nature lover, consider embracing the Muzen experience – where technology meets the great outdoors, creating a harmonious blend of music and magic.

Music lovers deserve something truly special when it comes to Christmas gifting! But, if you, like me, have not quite finished your Christmas shopping yet, fear not as there’s still time to get the music fan in your life the gift that keeps on giving with our round up of our favourite music-related gifts for the festive season and beyond.

Our Music Editor has curated some of our favourite music-themed presents that any discerning music lover will want to find under the tree this Christmas.

Wear it!

You can’t beat a classic band tee which is a fantastic way to showcase your serious style credentials whilst showing support for your favourite band. Whether you love Bowie or Blondie, Jimi Hendrix or Johnny Cash or even Prince or Pink Floyd, music lovers will be spoilt for choice thanks to the fantastic selection of tees from Backstage Originals.  

You can even shop on their website by your favourite bands for ease which is ideal for music lovers who are shopping on the go!

Listen up!

Headphones are a great gift all year round, but they make for quite the stellar gift for music lovers. SkullCandy offer some fantastic sets of headphones both bud/wireless and over the ear, but these Crusher ANC 2 Sensory Bass headphones offer both excellent sonics whilst delivering on bold colours and an seriously cool eye catching design in the shape of their new Acid Snow Camo collection. The headband, ear cups and on-ear controls are adorned in three exciting new colour ways – khaki green, grey and lilac.

Play it!

A huge part of Christmas festivities is playing games and what else should music lovers play than these fab music trump cards that have been exquisitely designed by artist Casey Raymond. Choose from sets such as Indie Sleaze, punk, britpop and more. These cards are excellently designed thanks to its beautiful artwork, but also offer an insightful learning experience whilst having fun at the same time. 

Read it!

There have been so many incredible music books out this year, but two of our favourites have to be from Sir Paul McCartney whose epic photographic book 1964: Eyes of the Storm has enchanted Beatles fans all over the world.

The book, which is an impressive collection of Paul’s photos from the early years of his time in The Beatles, has also been captured in his fascinating exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery perfectly encapsulates what life was like as a Beatle during that pivotal time as Beatlemania took hold in the early sixties.

We also love the photographic offering from the master of guitar playing himself, Mr Johnny Marr who has just released a beautiful coffee table style book ‘Marr’s Guitars’ which is a stunning photographic presentation of the guitars that have defined his distinctive sound and style which will be a brilliant gift for any music lovers for Christmas and beyond. 


Spin it!

Every music fan will be absolutely delighted to find a new record or two under the Christmas tree this year. Whether you favour one of the fantastic new albums from 2023 such as blur’s ‘The Ballad of Darren’, Taylor Swift’s ‘Speak Now’ or perhaps Noel Gallagher’s ‘Council Skies’ or even updating your collection with a seminal classic from the last five decades, look no further than Norman Records who sell an impressive myriad of vinyl records, including some exciting special editions which will certainly excite music lovers all over the world.

Interpret it!

One for the spiritual music lovers out there! If they love all things tarot then this fantastic set of tarot cards is an absolute must! 

Tune into your inner wisdom with this unique tarot deck inspired by cult music icons. Inside you’ll find musicians who perfectly encapsulate the tarot card meanings with musicians such as Prince, Blondie, Tupac all leading the way.  

The 78 cards work as a fully functional tarot deck, and the kit also includes a booklet with more information about the musicians, as well as information on how to interpret the cards and conduct your own reading.

Mix it!


If your favourite person’s favourite thing is to DJ, then why not help them get ahead with these TMA-2 DJ XE headphones from AIAIAI which are ideal for DJ’s on the go as they are both lightweight and modular but do not compromise on sound. They are well built, modular whilst providing a stellar sonic experience.

Whilst they have been designed for DJ’s in mind, they are also good for musicians as their high quality audio deliverance means they are just as useful for embarking on music creation in the studio, but also make a pretty stellar gift for music lovers who pride themselves on having a more sophisticated piece of kit when listening to their favourite mixes.

From Harry Potter fever to the hottest day of the year (ever!), 2003 was chock-full of some pretty unforgettable moments. But, it was also a year of fantastic music with some incredible albums which included ‘Silence Is Easy’ the second studio album by Starsailor.

It’s almost unfathomable to believe that this album is now twenty (yes twenty!) years old and like its predecessor, the band’s debut album, ‘Love is Here’, it achieved a consecutive number two in the UK album charts receiving both commercial success along with critical acclaim.

A perennial favourite of mine from the Starsailor back catalogue, when it was announced that the band were celebrating this landmark achievement with a dedicated tour to commemorate the album, I was frankly all in.

The band’s sophomore effort was a further case in point demonstrating how the songs have stood the test of time and that with the lavish arrangements (on record) along with frontman James Walsh’s emotive and crystal-clear vocals made it one of the most endearing records of the early noughties.

Fast forward to a rainy night in Southampton, where a sold-out crowd were ready to be transported back twenty years to hear the album’s songs, track by track. The band were supported by The Gleeman who served up his own rendition of Americana folk and the brilliant indie-rock singer Ed Cosens whose voice was on top form.

James, Ben Byrne (drums), Barry Westhead (keys) and James Stelfox on bass, kicked off proceedings with track 1 of this seminal album ‘Music was Saved’ which really hit the mark and was infinitely timely with the lyric ‘Oh my friends, we landed in December’.

There is no weakest link in Starsailor, with all four band members showcasing their musical pedigree which included some fantastic bass lines from James Stelfox. Music was indeed saved and we can all say thank you for that.

Navigating through the album chronologically was a reminder of the gift of listening to an album in its entirety. As a huge lover of vinyl records, when I am at home this is how I traditionally listen to music, but when out and about, I am first to admit that I might have a cheeky shuffle or indeed indulge in a playlist or two.

The band then performed ‘Fidelity’ and ‘Some Of Us’, both of which delighted the crowd and then segued into the titular track ‘Silence Is Easy’ which is a perennial fan favourite and had the crowd singing along in unison. 

Standouts included the Bowie-esque ‘White Dove’, the brilliant ‘Shark Food’ which is one of their best tracks (in my opinion) as it really showcases the band’s quality. It’s also one of the lesser-played Starsailor songs played live with the band only performing it in full no less than 16 times since its debut in 2003. ‘We’re stepping through the door, we’re shooting from the heart’ sings James Walsh, ‘If we get it wrong, they’ll feed us to the sharks’.

Naturally, as you would fully expect Starsailor did not put one foot wrong throughout their set which included a beautiful version of ‘Born Again’ and a rousing rendition of the emphatic ‘Four to the Floor’.

Part one of their jam-packed set was ‘Silence Is Easy’s album closer ‘Restless Heart’ which was performed entirely acoustically by James Walsh.

What could we expect from part two? Well, a carefully-curated selection of Starsailor’s most-loved hits from their impressive back catalogue of course!

From the impassioned ‘Tell Me It’s Not Over’ to the exquisite ‘Lullaby’, no stones were overturned with a sonic navigation around some of their biggest hits which also included ‘Alcoholic’ and ‘Poor Misguided Fool’

There was also an opportunity to hear their new track, the fantastic ‘Heavyweight’ which had a real Beatles vibe which was elevated by James Walsh’s powerful vocals.

The tender ‘Tie Up My Hands’ was a welcome addition to the set list which was ended superbly by the wonderful ‘Good Souls’ with its anthemic brilliance and top-notch lyrics, still feels like it would be a massive hit today.

Whilst this was a tour firmly nestled in nostalgia, Starsailor are indeed paying homage to the past whilst keeping their eyes set on a (continuously) golden future and evidently have so much more to offer as we glide into 2024.

Photo Credit: Joe Flanagan

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