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Archive through January 27, 2006lbpesq30 1-27-06  8:10 pm
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811952
Senior Member
Username: 811952

Post Number: 642
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 1:58 pm:   Edit Post

He's strapped to the front of a boat somewhere.. ;)
osoloco69
Junior
Username: osoloco69

Post Number: 29
Registered: 9-2005
Posted on Saturday, January 28, 2006 - 6:25 pm:   Edit Post

My friend had to repair Lucille for BB a few years back. In a storm she got at the bottom of a trailor that was flipped over and filled with water. Bad bad condition. She was fixed and is in playing order. Just thought yall would like the story, cause it seemed pertinant.
mpisanek
Intermediate Member
Username: mpisanek

Post Number: 144
Registered: 1-2005
Posted on Thursday, February 02, 2006 - 1:28 am:   Edit Post

I think this will turn out to become one of those urban legends! A bass spends weeks underwater, comes out, is plugged in, and really works! Only an Alembic!

I would try to leave the bass as original as possible. Keep the scars.

The only thing I might add is that you should definitely take the advice of the people in the know here. I believe that with a combination of your personal ideas, and the expertise that Alembic has, that you will have an instrument that is amazing! Different from the original in some respects, but amazing, none the less!
serialnumber12
Advanced Member
Username: serialnumber12

Post Number: 364
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Monday, February 20, 2006 - 3:30 am:   Edit Post

I cant wait to see the final product on this one the finish reminds me of my finish being that it has worn off over the years.
bigbadbill
Advanced Member
Username: bigbadbill

Post Number: 225
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Monday, February 20, 2006 - 2:30 pm:   Edit Post

Paul TBO, underneath that alias I suspect you may actually be more "good" than the rest of us combined...
palembic
Senior Member
Username: palembic

Post Number: 2295
Registered: 9-2002
Posted on Monday, February 20, 2006 - 3:18 pm:   Edit Post

Nono ...i am bad ...really bad ...bad bad bad bad bad bad ...oh am I bad

P
bob
Senior Member
Username: bob

Post Number: 585
Registered: 11-2002
Posted on Monday, February 20, 2006 - 9:34 pm:   Edit Post

No he's not, he just likes to say that.
bigbass
Member
Username: bigbass

Post Number: 93
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 - 11:52 am:   Edit Post

I guess that settles that....
bsee
Senior Member
Username: bsee

Post Number: 1021
Registered: 3-2004
Posted on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 - 1:37 pm:   Edit Post

Bah - I came here looking for an update and all I get is off topic drivel!!! :-)

Seriously, though, any progress on this one yet? I think this may be the most intriguing construction job in the works.

-Bob
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 3094
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 - 1:45 pm:   Edit Post

This is on hold a for little while I do some more research about wood conservation and restoration. I've got a couple of books to sift through first, then we'll have enough information to decide how to proceed.
j_gary
Intermediate Member
Username: j_gary

Post Number: 192
Registered: 6-2005
Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2006 - 9:36 am:   Edit Post

Hi Mica, I've got an idea, so run!

How about an Alembic "Relic" series? This Hurricane Alembic could be the model for a new line of basses. It appears this same crazy idea is working elseware in the bass world. Mike would have an instant "collectors item", if indeed he does not already.

Okay, I'll be quiet now.

Mike, a darn shame what happened to the old girl as she was a beauty. Now she is a living legend, good luck!
s_wood
Intermediate Member
Username: s_wood

Post Number: 191
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 11:35 am:   Edit Post

As a person who really appreciates a well-made bass, nothing makes me more crazy than the whole "Relic" concept. Why in the world would someone take a nice new bass and beat the hell out of it? Even weirder to me is the idea that someone would actually pay more for a bass that has been abused at the factory!

On the other hand, the whole concept behind the restoration of Michael's bass is so cool I can't even talk about it! What a wonderful vibe and story that bass will have when it's done. Tiumph of the human spirit, and all of that...
dela217
Senior Member
Username: dela217

Post Number: 640
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 11:56 am:   Edit Post

Steve - That is EXACTLY how I feel. Even more so than musical instruments, I don't care for distressed furniture. Antiques that have not been refinished are one thing, but to take a new piece and make it look old is beyond me.

Michael
jack
Member
Username: jack

Post Number: 51
Registered: 11-2005
Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 4:33 pm:   Edit Post

The best is when they do it with blue jeans and charge 80 bucks a pair. All the rage here in NYC.

I really hope this bass pulls through.

-Jack
jacko
Senior Member
Username: jacko

Post Number: 754
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Friday, August 18, 2006 - 3:01 pm:   Edit Post

I've just been watching a BBC programme about hermann Leonard and his attempts to rebuild his collection of 10,000 or so prints of Jazz musicians. Aside from Leonards obvious losses, the programme spent alot of time dwelling on the after effects of katrina and how, even now nothing is being done by the government. I was especially moved by the plight of residents of the lower 9th district Which appears to have been the worst hit. Outside of the states, we've pretty much forgotten about the problems in New Orleans. For instance, we're not told that that the national guard have had to be brought back to control the escalating violence.
I found it amazing that the residents of New Orleans felt it absolutely neccessary to go ahead with mardi Gras this year despite the obvious difficulties. This programme has highlighted the problems in New orleans to me more than any news item.
Which, in a roundabout kind of way, brings me to wonder what has happened to Micheal's series 1?

Graeme
dela217
Senior Member
Username: dela217

Post Number: 703
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Friday, August 18, 2006 - 5:55 pm:   Edit Post

Graeme - It really is still a mess here. But it is definately getting better. There are houses in my neighborhood that had to be torn down because of structural damage. I am still not in my home and it is coming up on a year since the storm! You are right. What is called the Lower 9th ward was the worst hit. But there are other areas with just as much devestation. It is strange that some areas did not get ANY flood water, but just a couple of blocks away, the water was up to the second story. I guess you guys can tell, I have had my fill of Katrina. Since the day I came back to this area, I have been working to rebuild. Both my house, and where I work. Hopefully we will be blessed in the future and not have another natural disaster.

On the bright side is that all of my neighbors have become much closer. It is though we are unified, all helping each other. Before the storm, I had dificulty hanging a picture. Now I am a carpenter, electrician, plumber, and brick layer! I have to admit that it has been quite a learning expierence.

Everyone here felt that Mardi Gras was neccessary and important. It HAD to go on. I was thrilled to be a part of it. I had the opportunity to play bass in the Krewe of Endymion. What a rush!!!

The national guard was called in early on because the city was lawless. People looting, and killing each other for gasoline. Pity. For a while though we were back on our feet with no help, but the crime got out of control. There were many murders every night. As soon as people started fixing up their houses, the stealing started. Folks were stealing wiring and copper pipes out of houses just to sell it by the pound! It got REAL bad. I am glad the Nationl Guard was called back. They really make a difference around here. I go out of my way to let them know how much they are appreciated here.

I am very lucky.

Michael
palembic
Senior Member
Username: palembic

Post Number: 2449
Registered: 9-2002
Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2006 - 1:30 am:   Edit Post

Bro Michael, I am with you and supporting on a distance. The National Geographic did an astonishing and breathtaking articl eonthe Katrina visit in New Orleans.
I was really wooried knowing you -and other friends- were in that mess!
Keep the good faith!

Paul TBO
jorge_s
Member
Username: jorge_s

Post Number: 91
Registered: 8-2002
Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2006 - 8:15 pm:   Edit Post

One of the few positive things for me about Katrina was that a little while back, Michael and I had the oportunity to have a little post-hurricane Alembic show-and-tell. We got to take a little breather from re-building and shared some of our instruments. Michael is such an expert. I have to say I learn something new about Alembic every time I talk to him. It is too bad neither of us had a camera that day. It was very nice to meet him in person as well as his lovely family. By the way Michael I do have a bass I would like to show you. I am out of town at the moment but I'll call you when I get there.
smokin_dave
Advanced Member
Username: smokin_dave

Post Number: 281
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Saturday, August 19, 2006 - 10:15 pm:   Edit Post

Thank you so much for that last post Michael.I'm sorry you and others are in that mess too but thanks for being a window into what seems to be another world.Like a science fiction tale.I just wish everybody Godspeed in getting they're lives back in order in New Orleans.Plus I hope 73-30 get's back to you soon.
To you and Jorge I say,Chin up.
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 4294
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Sunday, August 20, 2006 - 9:06 am:   Edit Post

Apparently there is a new Spike Lee documentary about Katrina on HBO. Unfortunately I don't get HBO, but my guess is that for those who do, it will be well worth watching.
rooney
New
Username: rooney

Post Number: 3
Registered: 7-2006
Posted on Monday, August 21, 2006 - 9:29 am:   Edit Post

If suggestions for what to do with the bass are still being taken, then I'd like to suggest that it be made to look new again, but have some sort of inlay to commemorate(sp?) this event.
ajish4
Member
Username: ajish4

Post Number: 95
Registered: 11-2003
Posted on Monday, August 21, 2006 - 10:28 am:   Edit Post

Like little MOP hurricane shape inlays?

(Message edited by ajish4 on August 21, 2006)
rooney
New
Username: rooney

Post Number: 4
Registered: 7-2006
Posted on Monday, August 21, 2006 - 10:35 am:   Edit Post

I was actually just thinking that, or possibly something a bit more complex like a body inlay. It's up to the owner though.
keavin
Senior Member
Username: keavin

Post Number: 908
Registered: 12-2002
Posted on Tuesday, August 22, 2006 - 6:02 am:   Edit Post

I'd like to see some progress photos.
adriaan
Senior Member
Username: adriaan

Post Number: 1011
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Tuesday, August 22, 2006 - 6:30 am:   Edit Post

It's been mangled by something named after Saint Catherine, so a wheel might be an appropriate image -
Catherine's wheel
Found here: http://www.catholic-forum.com/Saints/stc01001.htm
dela217
Senior Member
Username: dela217

Post Number: 705
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Tuesday, August 22, 2006 - 6:45 am:   Edit Post

I like both those inlay ideas! But, I am leaving it in Alembic's hands. When I talked to Mica last, I told her to do whatever they think is best to bring it back to life.

From what I saw of that bass after the flood, I really thought I was just going to throw it away. I had real doubts about it ever being playable again. When I first talked with Mica about this projest, she told me "Send us your worst one." I feel that this one was the worst damaged of the bunch. If it can be salvaged at all, I will be thrilled.

Michael
jubeas3eyes
Junior
Username: jubeas3eyes

Post Number: 22
Registered: 1-2006
Posted on Monday, September 11, 2006 - 7:53 pm:   Edit Post

This is like "pimp my ride"! Well...except you have to pay for it...
jtussing
Junior
Username: jtussing

Post Number: 11
Registered: 12-2006
Posted on Sunday, January 07, 2007 - 7:01 am:   Edit Post

Just read through this wonderful set of posts. Michael, I hope things are improving for you all down there.

Any news on the progress so far?
cozmik_cowboy
Advanced Member
Username: cozmik_cowboy

Post Number: 204
Registered: 10-2006
Posted on Monday, September 24, 2007 - 11:09 am:   Edit Post

How's this coming along?

Peter
dela217
Senior Member
Username: dela217

Post Number: 835
Registered: 6-2002
Posted on Monday, September 24, 2007 - 7:24 pm:   Edit Post

I have not heard any news. I will have to call Mica and check on things.
lindoom
Junior
Username: lindoom

Post Number: 19
Registered: 1-2004
Posted on Thursday, March 06, 2008 - 9:11 am:   Edit Post

just to keep this on the radar. anything to report?
serialnumber12
Senior Member
Username: serialnumber12

Post Number: 733
Registered: 12-2004
Posted on Wednesday, May 12, 2010 - 3:50 am:   Edit Post

any progress on this one Mike?
altgrendel
Intermediate Member
Username: altgrendel

Post Number: 123
Registered: 5-2008
Posted on Friday, June 25, 2010 - 9:18 am:   Edit Post

Curiosity bump.
toma_hawk01
Junior
Username: toma_hawk01

Post Number: 22
Registered: 9-2009
Posted on Monday, June 28, 2010 - 7:19 pm:   Edit Post

I remember seeing that bass when I was in the planning stages of my bass. I am extremely interested in the restoration of that beautiful and rare Alembic shorty.

It just goes to show just how strong and well build Alembics are, and being that some of the wood selections are from hurricane areas, that's in it self, is an agreement with nature's fury.

With so many inspirational, and beautiful stories of New Orleans; and its many tragedies, this bass is a wonderful example of symbolic musical quality, from the birth place of Jazz.

I also remember touching this bass, and sadly remembering the people who lost their whole way of life. Yes, this bass is special to me too and it represent something "still standing, and still strong" as the great people of New Orleans.

Peace and Love,

Hal-

(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on June 28, 2010)
count
Member
Username: count

Post Number: 97
Registered: 10-2003
Posted on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - 7:12 am:   Edit Post

How did this story end, or is it still ongoing.?
jacko
Senior Member
Username: jacko

Post Number: 3395
Registered: 10-2002
Posted on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - 7:16 am:   Edit Post

I saw the bass in the workshop last september.It still needed a whole lot of love to bring it back to life.

Graeme
davehouck
Moderator
Username: davehouck

Post Number: 11116
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - 5:07 pm:   Edit Post

My recollection is that in addition to a whole lot of love, there is a whole lot of research and testing involved as well.
edwin
Senior Member
Username: edwin

Post Number: 1884
Registered: 5-2002
Posted on Sunday, December 21, 2014 - 2:39 pm:   Edit Post

Any further word on this one?
mica
Moderator
Username: mica

Post Number: 8352
Registered: 6-2000
Posted on Sunday, December 21, 2014 - 9:05 pm:   Edit Post

I was just looking at this bass with Keith today when he picked up his Starfire. Still salt oozing out of the endgrain, but it's slowed enough that I'm just about confident enough to start taking the sucker apart.

It was crusting up every month with salt. My adviser on the project suggested waiting until it took 6 months to crust. We're about at that point. Will be nice to get this bass going strong again!

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