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ed_too
Junior
Username: ed_too

Post Number: 28
Registered: 3-2011
Posted on Thursday, August 28, 2014 - 4:39 pm:   Edit Post

ps. I’ve got tickets for Phil and Friends playing out here on Sept. 21st. I can hardly wait to hear him play TOV – I’ll post in the TOV thread afterwards.

Regards,

Ed
pace
Senior Member
Username: pace

Post Number: 1063
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Thursday, August 28, 2014 - 5:39 pm:   Edit Post

Yeah, yeah, I know Bill.... just busting your chops... :-)

....good story though...
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11480
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Thursday, August 28, 2014 - 5:42 pm:   Edit Post

First video. This appears to be video from last night's debut of the new bass. Phil is singing Box of Rain. The video is dark and from the side, and you can't hardly see Phil or the bass; but you can hear it. And at the end, the band leaves the stage and Phil puts the bass in its stand; and you can see the LEDs all lit up.
hammer
Senior Member
Username: hammer

Post Number: 554
Registered: 9-2009
Posted on Thursday, August 28, 2014 - 8:55 pm:   Edit Post

Just listened to the Youtube video. Cleanest, clearest bass sound I've heard from Phil in both his recorded (live) and the live performances I've been able to catch with PL&F and Further in years...

Rusty:

I've been following your build closely. Love how its looking as color is added and I'm jealous of the headstock. It's going to be incredible! Get well soon!
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 1825
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Thursday, August 28, 2014 - 11:47 pm:   Edit Post

Hm, that video sounded a little less than clear to me when it comes to the bass (given my experience of both Alembic's and Mr. Lesh's tone). It sounded like a somewhat off axis recording in a location that was subject to upper bass standing waves, so a bit lacking in highs and a bit boomy in the upper bass and lower mids. I did like the fact that each register was very balanced, but I would expect an even better tone right in front of the amp or from a direct signal. It sure whetted my appetite for more!
rv_bass
Junior
Username: rv_bass

Post Number: 16
Registered: 8-2014
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 3:27 am:   Edit Post

Listened to it on the train this morning rolling along the New England coast at sunrise. A lovely way to start the day!
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11483
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 8:23 am:   Edit Post

Edwin's note that "each register was very balanced" was the thing that stood out for me as well.
hieronymous
Senior Member
Username: hieronymous

Post Number: 1406
Registered: 1-2005
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 2:06 pm:   Edit Post

Been wondering where I should post this pic - this seems like as good as any!



Snapped this after everything was over - Phil's sound was very dark, almost no high-end content at all - wondered if it was filter settings, but I guess turning off your treble at the amp helps?!!

I took the pic to see how the Enhance knob was set, really did not expect the tone control settings!

phil lesh amp settings

(Message edited by mica on September 05, 2014)
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 1826
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 3:08 pm:   Edit Post

Interesting. Are the strings round wound? Was the dumping of the treble a way to compensate and give them more of a flat or ground wound character?

The recording definitely represented a dark tone, but I assumed it was because of where the mics were in relation to the amp, but maybe I was wrong.
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 8256
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 5:02 pm:   Edit Post

They are rounds... for now. That may change in the near future.

Harry, did you notice that everything was missing highs? I thought even the vocals sounded like they were going through these settings.

What I appreciated the most from the performance was how when Phil played quietly, the bass still sounded full, just quieter. Also the audience quieted down and paid attention as the band played with quiet dynamics.

Tonight I get to hear it in the Grate Room! Plus Scott Law on his Alembic guitar and Lebo from ALO is sitting in as well. Looking forward to tonight!
susan
Moderator
Username: susan

Post Number: 112
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 5:23 pm:   Edit Post

Hi all...got an email from Phil about an hour ago...he has named her:

"Khaleesi...Mother of Dragons!"

Mica and I love Game of Thrones...I think it's the perfect name for that fiery looking bass.
mtjam
Intermediate Member
Username: mtjam

Post Number: 185
Registered: 11-2011
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 5:50 pm:   Edit Post

Well done, Susan, Mica, & Co.! This bass is even more awesome than I thought it would be. Phil will achieve a tone with this instrument that hasn't been heard from him for many years. I probably won't get to experience it live any time soon, so I hope to see Phil play it in a webcast in the near future.

Now if we can just get one of my other bass heroes, Mike Gordon, to go Alembic...
s_wood
Advanced Member
Username: s_wood

Post Number: 388
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 6:23 pm:   Edit Post

I have often wished that Dave Schools of Widespread Panic would go Alembic. To my ears, he is an Alembic guy though he doesn't know it yet...
tree63
Junior
Username: tree63

Post Number: 36
Registered: 8-2010
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 6:38 pm:   Edit Post

Nice bass Phil, it looks gorgeous...hope to hear it in person soon...as soon as you come out east...Alembic basses connect us...
rustyg61
Senior Member
Username: rustyg61

Post Number: 1302
Registered: 2-2011
Posted on Friday, August 29, 2014 - 7:42 pm:   Edit Post

Harry has solved the mystery with his photo. I have the same amp, Eden WT 800 & as you can see, Phil has both the high band on the parametric & the treble gain set at -15db, so ALL the highs are gone. Probably just culture shock after hearing the pristine clean of the Alembic sound again after all these years!



wfmandmusic
Intermediate Member
Username: wfmandmusic

Post Number: 109
Registered: 1-2012
Posted on Tuesday, September 02, 2014 - 4:23 am:   Edit Post

This is great news for the Alembic family. I can't wait to hear this bass played on a big stage after he tweaks it out!
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11487
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Tuesday, September 02, 2014 - 3:06 pm:   Edit Post

New, and improved, video.

This is from Friday night the 29th and features two Alembics being played by two very good players. It's a great performance all around by the whole band; a great lineup having a lot of fun.
wfmandmusic
Intermediate Member
Username: wfmandmusic

Post Number: 110
Registered: 1-2012
Posted on Tuesday, September 02, 2014 - 8:57 pm:   Edit Post

Yes great players indeed. It looks like Phil is having a great time. Is that you Dave singing over the recording? :-)
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11488
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Tuesday, September 02, 2014 - 9:00 pm:   Edit Post

No; I don't sing that good.

:-)
jazzyvee
Senior Member
Username: jazzyvee

Post Number: 4197
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Tuesday, September 02, 2014 - 11:31 pm:   Edit Post

That sounds really good from he few minutes I've listened but will have to put some time in and watch it on my tv screen and sound system soon. Thanks for posting Dave
811952
Senior Member
Username: 811952

Post Number: 2364
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Wednesday, September 03, 2014 - 12:53 pm:   Edit Post

:-)
llobsterbass
Intermediate Member
Username: llobsterbass

Post Number: 126
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Wednesday, September 03, 2014 - 3:04 pm:   Edit Post

Can't wait to hear Phil play this beauty sometime!

Mike Gordon has had an Alembic since at least the 1990s. I'm not sure whether he's ever played it onstage but I've seen backstage practice photos with it. Pretty sure it was a five-string Epic.
cozmik_cowboy
Senior Member
Username: cozmik_cowboy

Post Number: 1768
Registered: 10-2006
Posted on Friday, September 05, 2014 - 7:48 am:   Edit Post

Just made time to listen to Dave's link; prudy dern good! Can someone ID the drummer, acoustic player, keyboardist, & Richard Manuel, Jr with the Tele?

Peter
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11490
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Friday, September 05, 2014 - 2:45 pm:   Edit Post

The Alembic player is Scott Law.
The tele player is Ross James.
The accoustic player is Dan Lebowitz.
The drummer is Alex Koford.
The video doesn't show the keyboard player, but I'm guessing it was Jason Crosby since he was on the calendar.

It looks like they were having a lot of fun; and it certainly sounds like a good night.

I just found confirmation that it was indeed Jason Crosby on keyboards.

(Message edited by davehouck on September 05, 2014)
mtjam
Intermediate Member
Username: mtjam

Post Number: 190
Registered: 11-2011
Posted on Friday, September 05, 2014 - 4:57 pm:   Edit Post

I hear that Phil & Friends will have a webcast tonight from the Lock'n festival on nugs.tv. It's a little pricey, but will surely feature some nice views of that new bass! Very tempting...
cozmik_cowboy
Senior Member
Username: cozmik_cowboy

Post Number: 1769
Registered: 10-2006
Posted on Friday, September 05, 2014 - 7:28 pm:   Edit Post

Thanks, Dave. Fine players, all. They do indeed look like they're enjoying it -
I especially noticed how Phil smiled the second he picked up Kahleesi, and didn't stop.

Peter
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 8257
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Friday, September 05, 2014 - 7:43 pm:   Edit Post

We are enjoying the webcast very much! The band sounds great.
mtjam
Intermediate Member
Username: mtjam

Post Number: 192
Registered: 11-2011
Posted on Friday, September 05, 2014 - 8:33 pm:   Edit Post

Great to see Phil having so much fun tonight!
germansal
Member
Username: germansal

Post Number: 56
Registered: 8-2004
Posted on Saturday, September 13, 2014 - 7:02 pm:   Edit Post

AMAZING BASSˇˇˇˇAS ALWAYS....
germansal
Member
Username: germansal

Post Number: 57
Registered: 8-2004
Posted on Saturday, September 13, 2014 - 7:04 pm:   Edit Post

I THINK YOU SHOULD PUT A VIDEO,TO LISTEN THIS BASS..I HOPE SO...
germansal
Member
Username: germansal

Post Number: 58
Registered: 8-2004
Posted on Saturday, September 13, 2014 - 7:13 pm:   Edit Post

OOOOOPSSSSˇ I VE RECENTLY NOTICED THAT THERES A VIDEO.....
pace
Senior Member
Username: pace

Post Number: 1068
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Sunday, September 21, 2014 - 6:12 pm:   Edit Post

I'm at forest hills right now, and this is the set list I've waited over a decade for Phil to drop, and a tone that is absolutely to die for......
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 1833
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Sunday, September 21, 2014 - 7:23 pm:   Edit Post

Wow, he got the old band back together! I look forward to hearing a recording. I bet he's getting the SII dialed in quite nicely.
pace
Senior Member
Username: pace

Post Number: 1069
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Sunday, September 21, 2014 - 10:02 pm:   Edit Post

OMG, Edwin. Give tonight's show a listen, even an aud tape if one is up on archive. I was right behind the board for the whole show. His bass sounded amazing.

Btw, I ran into a guy w a red Alembic shirt pre show~ Pete/Kilowatt?!?....
moonliner
Advanced Member
Username: moonliner

Post Number: 265
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Monday, September 22, 2014 - 3:14 am:   Edit Post

Here ya go!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=fmTde46m46Q
kilowatt
Intermediate Member
Username: kilowatt

Post Number: 139
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Monday, September 22, 2014 - 6:06 am:   Edit Post

Mike,

That wasn't me, but I wish it was. I really wanted to get out to this show, but I had too much to do. I bet it was great with that lineup.

Regards,
Pete
ed_too
Junior
Username: ed_too

Post Number: 29
Registered: 3-2011
Posted on Monday, September 22, 2014 - 6:47 am:   Edit Post

I was there last night too – behind the board, a few rows up. Everything that Mike said, ditto. Favorite, line-up, set list, tone. I look to Morning Dew as a sort of bench mark. Went way down low and back up – full and clear. Oh yes, Edwin, he’s got it dialed in.
Ed
pace
Senior Member
Username: pace

Post Number: 1070
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Monday, September 22, 2014 - 10:44 am:   Edit Post

Ed, we must've been in the same section. Compared to the Modulus' or Ritters, the new bass has so much more depth of character. Having that one ebony stringer goes a long way helping the fundamental linger a little longer which is something I'm not used to hearing on him. Does anyone know what else was in last nights signal chain~ it was a monster rig!
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 1837
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Monday, September 22, 2014 - 11:39 am:   Edit Post

Thanks for the link! The bass does sound good, although I bet it sounded even better in the room than on the recording. Punchy and even like the Modulus but without the clang, etc. I love the way the attack and envelope of the note responds to changes in picking (my Starfire does something similar), with different tonal ranges coming in and out.

Phil's singing has gotten a lot stronger, great to hear!

Great energy in the band all around, although I still have an aversion to Warren Haynes in this context, especially his tone, particularly with the Leslie simulator. Love him in other settings, but this never did it for me. I guess I'm too used to hearing a rhythm guitarist immersed in McCoy Tyner, horn parts, and string quartets bridging Phil and the drummer, instead of straight strumming. :-)

He's pretty killin' on Morning Dew, though, which is a great version. On the link I posted below, you can hear the fidelity of the bass a lot better, including the high end attack.

(Message edited by edwin on September 22, 2014)
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 1838
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Monday, September 22, 2014 - 11:57 am:   Edit Post

And it's up on archive with a bit better audio quality:

https://archive.org/details/plq2014-09-21.km184
jazzyvee
Senior Member
Username: jazzyvee

Post Number: 4237
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Friday, October 03, 2014 - 3:07 am:   Edit Post

I wonder if this is going to result in a Phil Lesh Signature style bass being developed?

Jazzyvee
bigredbass
Senior Member
Username: bigredbass

Post Number: 2246
Registered: 9-2002
Posted on Friday, October 03, 2014 - 8:08 am:   Edit Post

I would definitely suggest they keep those patterns. This looks (in the pics, anyway) as one of the few human-sized six-string basses I've seen. Most of them with those diving-board width necks just don't look liveable.

No wonder that the almighty himself, Anthony Jackson, has to play that monstrous 36" scale signature guitar sitting down. I've read his thoughts about the evolution of his design, and understand them completely, but even at six-foot and 44-long, I could not imagine trying to navigate that beast. Phil's axe, it just looks perfect if I were diving off into a six.

J o e y
5a_quilt_top
Advanced Member
Username: 5a_quilt_top

Post Number: 368
Registered: 6-2012
Posted on Friday, October 03, 2014 - 9:29 am:   Edit Post

And what better team than Phil and Alembic to successfully navigate through those logistical hurdles and devise an ELEGANT solution to the "manageable 6-string bass" puzzle.

I'll confess, I wasn't interested in one those for the same reasons Joey mentions above (jeeez...a 5-string can be a bit of a load for me), but this bad boy has me interested.
flaxattack
Senior Member
Username: flaxattack

Post Number: 2506
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2014 - 3:12 pm:   Edit Post

Gongrats Wickershams. The nice part is the same type of bass they make for us.
I'm curious as to the string spacing.
Looks like Wolf?
http://www3.alembic.com/img/inst/13470_bodyfrontL.jpg

i often wondered why phils sound was so "muddy" live on audience tapes but clear on sbds....
next up ? a six string godfather?
i love a crisp sound. right billy?
flaxattack
Senior Member
Username: flaxattack

Post Number: 2507
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2014 - 3:13 pm:   Edit Post

Gongrats Wickershams. The nice part is that its the same type of bass they make for us.
I'm curious as to the string spacing.
Looks like Wolf?
http://www3.alembic.com/img/inst/13470_bodyfrontL.jpg

i often wondered why phils sound was so "muddy" live on audience tapes but clear on sbds....
next up ? a six string godfather?
i love a crisp sound. right billy?
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 8293
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2014 - 5:33 pm:   Edit Post

Thanks, Flax - it's .50 between strings at the bridge. You would love the neck!

Yeah, it's not super crazy custom, but the neck recipe, scale length and string spacing are a tad unusual for a 6-string bass.
flaxattack
Senior Member
Username: flaxattack

Post Number: 2509
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Monday, October 13, 2014 - 2:35 pm:   Edit Post

holy jerry Garcia
thats real close to my neck.32 scale with 1/2 spacing
i think i am 1/2 inch at the 24th fret.
. the "shallow" C shape is what tony made for me on wolf
gee wouldn't it be neat if i could sneak wolf in when he plays the capital. sure he can try it out
echo008
Senior Member
Username: echo008

Post Number: 455
Registered: 2-2003
Posted on Thursday, October 16, 2014 - 7:12 am:   Edit Post

Does anyone know the weight?
Thanks
T
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 8305
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Wednesday, October 29, 2014 - 2:26 pm:   Edit Post

Cool show from last weekend at TXR:

http://youtu.be/-l4-CbYH7tk?list=UUdksSRVYuocSzyGucMNKvWg

Phil Lesh, Stanley Jordan, John Kadlecik, Jeff Chimenti, Tony Leone, Alex Koford

I didn't get to attend, but I've been enjoying this video!
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11556
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Wednesday, October 29, 2014 - 3:36 pm:   Edit Post

I watched this show this afternoon; it's absolutely wonderful!

First - there are two Alembics on stage, and in addition to looking beautiful, they both sound great.

Second - I'm assuming from some of Phil's remarks that this is the first time Jordan has played with the Friends; and this lineup was just wonderful together. To quote one remark from Phil during the show, "Wow! Stanley Jordan!"

The vocals were great as well. John sang most of the leads, while Phil sang some as well. It may just be me, but it seems to me that Phil's singing is getting better and better. The three part harmonies were great.

And the set list was great as well.

Just a wonderful show!
sonicus
Senior Member
Username: sonicus

Post Number: 3696
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Wednesday, October 29, 2014 - 3:42 pm:   Edit Post

Thanks for posting this Mica .
jazzyvee
Senior Member
Username: jazzyvee

Post Number: 4278
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Thursday, October 30, 2014 - 2:34 am:   Edit Post

Great I'll watch it on on surround sound later.
pace
Senior Member
Username: pace

Post Number: 1087
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Thursday, October 30, 2014 - 4:07 am:   Edit Post

Two Alembics and a Viger guitar.... You don't see too many of those around....
wfmandmusic
Intermediate Member
Username: wfmandmusic

Post Number: 120
Registered: 1-2012
Posted on Thursday, October 30, 2014 - 6:07 am:   Edit Post

Yes thanks for posting Mica. It was a beautiful way to wake up this morning. OMG his bass sounds fantastic!
bassman8416
Intermediate Member
Username: bassman8416

Post Number: 121
Registered: 5-2012
Posted on Saturday, November 15, 2014 - 9:23 am:   Edit Post

Phil's Alembic sounds amazing!!!!

http://vimeo.com/111767899
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11561
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Saturday, November 15, 2014 - 1:50 pm:   Edit Post

That was great! Thanks, Craig!
hammer
Senior Member
Username: hammer

Post Number: 618
Registered: 9-2009
Posted on Saturday, November 15, 2014 - 6:35 pm:   Edit Post

Fantastic! Best video I've seen of Phil playing his new bass.
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 8357
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 - 2:04 pm:   Edit Post

So many great videos to share! Here's two from last weekend at Terrapin Crossroads with Phil on his 6-string Series II, John Kadlecik on his custom Orion, and Scott Law on his custom Further. Lebo is on acoustic (but of course I'm planning on getting Alembics in his hands and Scott from ALO too!), Rob Barraco on keys , and Ezra Lipp on drums.

Great lineup and set lists - enjoy!

P&F 12-19-14 TXR
December 19, 2014 @ Terrapin Crossroads

and the next night:
P&F 12-20-14 TXR
December 20, 2014 @ Terrapin Crossroads

(Message edited by mica on December 23, 2014)
sonicus
Senior Member
Username: sonicus

Post Number: 3830
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 - 2:24 pm:   Edit Post

Mica , Thanks for posting this !

Wolf
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11605
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 - 6:48 pm:   Edit Post

I watched both videos, and they're wonderful!
jazzyvee
Senior Member
Username: jazzyvee

Post Number: 4358
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Wednesday, December 24, 2014 - 8:18 am:   Edit Post

Is the 5-pin on the furthur used for powering the guitar or is it used for the effects loop?
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq

Post Number: 5926
Registered: 7-2004
Posted on Wednesday, December 24, 2014 - 9:35 am:   Edit Post

Jazzy:

I don't think there is a 5-pin on Scott's guitar. It certainly didn't have one when it left the factory (2006 Featured Custom "Owl"), and, it appears to me from the video, that it still has the two regular jacks (one mono and one stereo) for the standard effects loop.

Bill, tgo
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 8363
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Friday, January 09, 2015 - 12:40 pm:   Edit Post

One from New Year's Eve:
http://vimeo.com/116085337

Scott's guitar doesn't have a 5-pin connector - just 2 1/4" jacks. One for output, one for effects loop.
jazzyvee
Senior Member
Username: jazzyvee

Post Number: 4377
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Friday, January 09, 2015 - 2:24 pm:   Edit Post

Cool.
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11623
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Friday, January 09, 2015 - 2:53 pm:   Edit Post

Wonderful!! Thanks Mica! Great shots of the bass, and a wonderful performance!
lbpesq
Senior Member
Username: lbpesq

Post Number: 5944
Registered: 7-2004
Posted on Saturday, January 17, 2015 - 8:45 am:   Edit Post

I saw P&F last night at Terrapin Crossroads doing a set of songs from 1967. Great show. The bass sounded wonderful, of course, and it is even more stunning in person. The top looks like someone crossed a cocobolo tree with a zebrawood tree! Maybe the elves can bring Phil to the 2015 Northern California gathering this spring/summer so we can get an up close and personal look at this gorgeous instrument?

Bill, tgo
cje
Intermediate Member
Username: cje

Post Number: 173
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 - 11:08 am:   Edit Post

Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY - 11.2.14

Courtesy of my friend Jason (but I was there too!)

cje
Intermediate Member
Username: cje

Post Number: 174
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 - 11:09 am:   Edit Post

Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, NY - 11.22.14

Courtesy of my friend Jason (but I was there too!)

cje
Intermediate Member
Username: cje

Post Number: 175
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 - 11:11 am:   Edit Post

Whoops - mods, remove the first post (wrong date!)
s_wood
Advanced Member
Username: s_wood

Post Number: 399
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 - 11:54 am:   Edit Post

Great pic!
mtjam
Advanced Member
Username: mtjam

Post Number: 295
Registered: 11-2011
Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 - 12:48 pm:   Edit Post

Looking forward to seeing and hearing Phil's new Alembic in person for the first time on May 14 at the Dear Jerry show!
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 2001
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 - 1:13 pm:   Edit Post

I wonder if he's going to play it at the 50th shows. It's a beautiful bass, pretty much exactly what I'd want in an Alembic solid body.
mtjam
Advanced Member
Username: mtjam

Post Number: 297
Registered: 11-2011
Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 - 1:20 pm:   Edit Post

It would be a crime to not play it at the shows this summer! : )
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 2002
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 - 10:42 pm:   Edit Post

I wonder if the Showman in this picture was functioning or just there for mojo. It seems like there are cables going into the input, but no lights are on. Hm.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yjDdTvx5hw&list=PLrYfrKyq7_HLP7nzistk1De1kwlBk911V
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11724
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Thursday, April 23, 2015 - 3:50 pm:   Edit Post

Edwin; since the video you linked was the 1972 show, maybe it was there as a reference to the period.

Oh, and thanks for the link! I've just started watching.
llobsterbass
Intermediate Member
Username: llobsterbass

Post Number: 128
Registered: 5-2004
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 11:28 am:   Edit Post

Phil and Jack Casady goofing around last night with Phil's Alembic S2. Maybe Alembic should make one for Jack now, to bring the circle fully around to where you started? Photo at Terrapin Crossroads by Jay Blakesburg.lesh-casady-20150428
enzo
Senior Member
Username: enzo

Post Number: 474
Registered: 4-2009
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 11:32 am:   Edit Post

Now that's a cool picture!
sonicus
Senior Member
Username: sonicus

Post Number: 4122
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 12:21 pm:   Edit Post

THIS , is one of the BEST pictures on this site ! I just love it !

Jack & Phil with Phil's Series II , so great ! May be it could just be a matter of time for Jack to get one as well , let's hope .

Wolf
stephenr
Member
Username: stephenr

Post Number: 65
Registered: 9-2014
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 1:22 pm:   Edit Post

Seriously doubt Jack is going back to playing a solid body bass anytime soon but if he did order an Alembic I wonder what he would want.

Definitely a great pic and cool that Jack spent the last two nights hanging out with Phil at TXR. Monday night Jack and Phil traded stories on stage before the 1973 show "recreation."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgOjln4RY6U
hieronymous
Senior Member
Username: hieronymous

Post Number: 1507
Registered: 1-2005
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 2:43 pm:   Edit Post

Interestingly, there has also been a picture that I have seen on Facebook (I believe for an article on the newly announced tour with John Mayer) with Phil playing an Epiphone Jack Casady Signature Bass! Did anyone grab that image?
hieronymous
Senior Member
Username: hieronymous

Post Number: 1508
Registered: 1-2005
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 2:45 pm:   Edit Post

Here it is:

phil on jack
hieronymous
Senior Member
Username: hieronymous

Post Number: 1509
Registered: 1-2005
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 2:49 pm:   Edit Post

And by the way llobsterbass, I'm with you as far as Jack Casady coming back to Alembic! Phil coming back was a wonderful turn of events.
sonicus
Senior Member
Username: sonicus

Post Number: 4123
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 3:54 pm:   Edit Post

Very interesting .
stephenr
Member
Username: stephenr

Post Number: 66
Registered: 9-2014
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 4:41 pm:   Edit Post

Picture of Phil with the Casady Signature bass is from The Other Ones set at the 10/27/02 Bridge School Benefit. It was an acoustic set and he probably thought this bass would give him a better sound in that context. Not sure if he ever played it on stage again.

Forgot to mention that Phil and Jack talked a bit about Alembic when they were trading stories at TXR the other night. The beginning of the YouTube clip is pretty interesting even if you skip the music.
hieronymous
Senior Member
Username: hieronymous

Post Number: 1510
Registered: 1-2005
Posted on Wednesday, April 29, 2015 - 7:24 pm:   Edit Post

Thanks for the info on the Casady bass! Must have been quite the meeting - two of the Guild/Alembic bass gods!!!
5a_quilt_top
Senior Member
Username: 5a_quilt_top

Post Number: 502
Registered: 6-2012
Posted on Friday, May 01, 2015 - 11:25 am:   Edit Post

Re: Jack "coming back" - IMO a bit ironic 'cuz ain't he the one that started all of this in the first place - ?

Seriously, being a huge Casady fan (and a big fan of irony, as well) - I'M ALL FOR IT!

Keep after him, Phil - he can't hold out forever!

Especially if he keeps holding onto that work of art you're currently playing...
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11736
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Saturday, May 02, 2015 - 7:16 pm:   Edit Post

Thanks for the link Stephen! The pre-show talk with Jack and Phil was pretty cool. Watching the show now.

And enjoying watching Rob Eaton from DSO. This is a nice lineup!
edwardofhuncote
Senior Member
Username: edwardofhuncote

Post Number: 332
Registered: 6-2014
Posted on Sunday, May 03, 2015 - 3:18 am:   Edit Post

If all follows suit, I'd love to see McVie pull one of his Alembics back out of retirement. (the old Omega cut "continuously fretted" Series bass was back at the Mothership for some work last year. hmmm...)

It's super-fun to watch these guys come full circle with Alembic!

(Message edited by edwardofhuncote on May 03, 2015)
stephenr
Member
Username: stephenr

Post Number: 71
Registered: 9-2014
Posted on Tuesday, May 05, 2015 - 9:08 am:   Edit Post

In keeping with the back out of retirement theme...

Phil demoed "Big Brown" (the Alembicized Starfire bass he played in the 70s) during the "history" segment of the 1975 show recreation at Terrapin Crossroads last night. Before he started he mentioned that the bass had been back to Alembic for a tune-up and so they could properly document it. He flashed a picture they gave him of the bass with labels on it telling him what all the knobs and switches do. Even with the diagram he didn't seem to have much of a handle on it but it was interesting. After watching him fumble around with the bass during the demo it is hard to believe how well he used to play this bass and how great it sounded.

Haven't watched the show itself yet but the demo at the beginning is pretty cool...

http://tinyurl.com/pljnw5h
sonicus
Senior Member
Username: sonicus

Post Number: 4134
Registered: 5-2009
Posted on Tuesday, May 05, 2015 - 10:13 am:   Edit Post

Thanks Stephen ! That all brings back good memories of some of my experiences from back in the day ,

Wolf
mtjam
Advanced Member
Username: mtjam

Post Number: 305
Registered: 11-2011
Posted on Tuesday, May 05, 2015 - 1:03 pm:   Edit Post

Thanks for that link! Haven't had a chance to watch the whole show yet, but I really enjoyed the bass segment at the beginning.

That sound is why I'm here today!
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11739
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Tuesday, May 05, 2015 - 2:19 pm:   Edit Post

Can't watch the '75 show since I haven't watched '74 yet. I've been trying to watch them all in order; and it's been interesting seeing how the music changes over "time".
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 2008
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Tuesday, May 05, 2015 - 2:47 pm:   Edit Post

After all that fumbling around, I think he should pass that bass on to someone who will use it to its full potential! :-)

Seriously, though, I was hoping he was going to be playing it for the show. It's nice how he can get feedback from it. Mine shrieks in the high frequencies before it will feedback if I use a full range speaker. I think my pickups are microphonic.

I think it shows how much you need to keep in mind what the tone you are going for is and what needs to happen with the filters to get it. Once you get out of practice with it, it can be daunting. The video also shows how great the basic tone of that bass is.

Mica, any chance of posting that diagram on the forum?
stephenr
Member
Username: stephenr

Post Number: 72
Registered: 9-2014
Posted on Tuesday, May 05, 2015 - 3:07 pm:   Edit Post

The times I have seen Phil play Big Brown onstage since the 70s he used it only to make feedback. I didn't see him play it on any tunes.

Agree that it would be great if the diagram was archived on the forum.
serialnumber12
Senior Member
Username: serialnumber12

Post Number: 1114
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Tuesday, October 06, 2015 - 4:45 pm:   Edit Post

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