Music technology changed a lot after World War II. Postwar introductions included the solidbody electric guitar, electric bass, seven-inch single, multitrack tape, transistors, and much … Read More “Gearhead: A Brief History of the Grafton Saxophone”
In 1940, the jazz establishment was just coming to recognize the potential of the electric guitar as a lead instrument. After joining Benny Goodman’s orchestra … Read More “Gearhead: Ralph Towner’s Acoustic Arsenal”
“Manzello & Stritch” sounds like the title of a ’70s cop show, but in the hands of Rahsaan Roland Kirk, these unusual variations on the … Read More “How Rahsaan Roland Kirk Modified Jazz”
If there’s one kind of technological development that every gigging musician likes, it’s the kind that makes one’s gear easier to deal with: smaller, lighter, less … Read More “Downsizing Is Good at Winter NAMM 2020”
Over his 50-plus years on the world stage, John McLaughlin has never been afraid to explore uncharted territory. Yet, as the 78-year-old guitarist jovially admitted … Read More “Gearhead: John McLaughlin Makes MiGiC”
For nearly 30 years, Dave Stryker has been nearly inseparable from his Gibson ES-347s. “I saw Marvin Horne playing one at the Village Vanguard with … Read More “Gearhead: Dave Stryker’s Plex-able Guitar Mods”
Remo Adjustable Bass Drum Dampener Designed in conjunction with Dave Weckl, this handy little device from Remo gives drummers the ability to adjust the tone … Read More “Gearhead: A Remo Kick-Drum Collab with Dave Weckl”
Combine Cannonball Adderley with Clarence Clemons, pour in a large beaker of R&B, garnish with eye-grabbing stagecraft, and you have the essential ingredients of a … Read More “Gearhead: Mindi Abair Stays Unattached”
