May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
Linda May Han Oh released the album Walk Against Wind on Biophilia Records on April 14.
(Photo: Shervin Lainez)You switched from double bass to bass guitar during your set. What prompted you to do that?
It’s just an added element. I’ve been playing a lot more electric these days—mainly for myself, though I play a little bit in Pat [Metheny]’s band, too. It’s just a different sound, a different texture. I still want it to sound like me.
I do think in terms of colors with a lot of these compositions. So much of it is just setting the scene. But within the set, it’s still all us—even if Fabian is doing his electronic thing.
You’ve also added wordless singing to your arsenal. Has it been difficult to vocalize and play simultaneously, or did that come naturally?
I definitely practice it, and I always say to my students that they should practice it, too. It’s a very important component and a useful tool when you’re practicing certain polyrhythmic and even bi-tonal things. It’s great for your ears.
I’ve heard that it can be particularly difficult for bass players to sing and play.
You’re thinking about intonation of the bass—well, the upright bass—as well as the intonation of your voice. But it’s great to do, and a lot of musicians I know do practice it, whether or not they choose to incorporate it.
Finally, do you approach soloing differently on bass guitar?
There are definitely some technical things that are different on electric and upright, but I still want to sound like me. That’s the ultimate goal. DB
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
Cécile McLorin Salvant busts out Jelly Roll Morton’s “The Murder Ballad” at Big Ears, here with pianist Sullivan Fortner.
Apr 7, 2026 1:21 PM
There’s pluralism, then there’s PLURALISM! — and then there’s Big Ears. Thurston Moore, who participated in…
“We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”
Apr 21, 2026 10:00 AM
Nik Bärtsch cuts an imposing figure on stage. He’s unmistakable with his soul patch, shaven head and black attire.…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
May 12, 2026 11:42 AM
The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
May 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
