Guitar and Bass Conversations – Détails, épisodes et analyse

I recently learned about Dr. Emma Dayhuff’s new album, “Innovations & Lineage: The Chicago Project,”, which has been garnering a lot of attention, and I wanted to learn more.

When it came to bringing this album to life, she knew exactly who she wanted on board. She assembled a remarkable group of musicians: Dee Alexander on vocals, Isaiah Collier on tenor sax, and Kahil El’Zabar on percussion.

Recorded live, the album captures the energy of the performance while presenting a clear, resonant bass sound that anchors the music beautifully. It’s both a nod to Chicago’s rich jazz tradition and a glimpse into the innovative directions Dr. Dayhuff is exploring in her work.

Today, we’ll hear about her musical journey, the inspiration behind this album, and what she has planned next. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Emma Dayhuff.

This interview first appeared in Bass Musician Magazine in October 2025

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I’ve been noticing a lot of buzz around The Big Ol’ Nasty Getdown on social media lately, and it definitely caught my attention. Recently, I came across their track “Wrong Side of the Law” featuring rising star bassist Ellen Alaverdyan alongside her dad, Hovak. The energy of the project was so contagious that I felt compelled to dig deeper and find out what it’s all about.

At the heart of it all is John Heintz, who wears many hats… bassist, producer, and the self-proclaimed “Ringleader” behind this one-of-a-kind concept: a massive, collaborative, big-band-style jam that blends creativity, funk, and sheer musical joy.

John graciously took the time to chat with me, and he shared so many fascinating stories… from how he first got started in music and fell in love with the bass, to highlights of his stunning bass collection, to the exciting projects he’s currently working on and what’s next for The Big Ol’ Nasty Getdown.

So without further ado… here’s John Heintz!

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Bob Bakert, Jazz Guitar Today editor: Pasquale Grasso is a virtuoso guitarist from Italy …  At the age of 36 he is a fixture on the scene in NYC, which in the words of Frank Sinatra, “if you can make it there, you’ll make it anywhere”… He is simply one of the most accomplished guitarists on the scene today.  He plays with voicing and movement of a pianist, solos like a horn and is a complete like a musician in the best sense of the word. 

Please enjoy our conversation.

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Hailing from beautiful Santa Barbara, California, Toad the Wet Sprocket has been a mainstay of American Alternative Rock for over three decades. Dean Dinning, one of the founding members, has been an integral part of this band’s success, contributing both tasty bass licks and vocals.

Join me as we hear all about Dean’s rich musical heritage, musical journey, how he gets his sound, and his plans for the future.

This interview first appeared in Bass Musician Magazine in December 2023

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I am sure many of you will remember our initial interview with Robb Harper back in 2017 and an update in 2019. You will also recall that we recorded some of Robb’s live performances at the NAMM show. Well, it has been a while and Robb has been very busy… so lots get caught up and see what he is up to now.

This interview first appeared in Bass Musician Magazine in October 2023

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Many rock fans have enjoyed music by Foghat, who originally formed in London back in 1971.

Over the many decades of playing, the band members have changed, leaving behind only Roger Earl as the only original member. Bassist Rodney O’Quinn left the Pat Travers Band and joined the group in 2015 and has been laying down the low end for this iconic quartet keeping the Foghat legacy alive. With a new album titled “Sonic Mojo” which dropped on November 10th, the band is as busy as ever and there is lots of very tasty music to come.

Join me as we learn of Rodney O’Quinn’s musical journey, how he gets his sound, and his plans for the future.

This episode first appeared in Bass Musician Magazine, in December 2023

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JGT's Bob Bakert talks to Dave Miner of the Miner Family Wines and Benedetto Guitars about his passion for wine and guitars. 

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Jazz Guitar Today's Bob Bakert talks to Perry Smith, John Storie, and Will Brahm - the guitar trio known as New West Guitars. 

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Wolf Marshall Talks To JGT About His New Book, "Jazz Guitar Course - Mastering The Jazz Language" - A Hal Leonard Book

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For a musician, busy is good and bassist Marty O’Brien is one very busy guy. Playing tours and sessions, Marty has a huge list of people that he has played with including the likes of Lita Ford, Daughtry, Tommy Lee, Celine Dion, Kelly Clarkson and so many more.

Join me as we hear about Marty’s musical Journey, how he gets his iconic sound, and his plans for the future.

Here is Marty O’Brien!

Photos, shot by HRV Images and Aaron Bradley

This interview first appeared in Bass Musician Magazine on March 6, 2023

Go to jazzguitartoday.com and bassmusicianmagazine.com more interviews and lessons.