Author: Mike Downes
Publisher: Advance Music
Year Published: 2004
Format / Pages: / 175 pages
Review: Mike Downes is the head of the bass department at Humber College in Toronto, Canada. One of Canada's most gifted bassists, he has put together a masterpiece with his book about jazz bass. This book succeeds well as an instruction approach for jazz bass performers. It is the type of articulate book a performer can rely on, and come back to often.
Following the introduction and glossary, there are fourteen chapters. The book contains an appendix which covers essential jazz standards, listening list, and transcription reference. A concise section about the author concludes this fine book.
A comment on the appendix item of essential jazz standards -- it is accurate and interesting. The song titles listed should be on any jazz bass player's list to know and perform!
Chapter 1 covers in-depth various techniques related to bass lines and Chapter 2 covers the topic of minor blues. Each chapter will give useful information with a direct, hands-on approach. Chapter 14, "Putting It Into Practice" and "Time Feel" are great insights shared by the author, and will intrigue the reader with their honesty and helpfulness.
This book should find a ready and welcome home among those who play jazz bass, or want to learn. It is well-written, clear, and entertaining as an instruction book for jazz bass.
Highly recommended for learning jazz bass. Those wishing further information may wish to contact the listed web site at www.mikedownes.com.
Additional Information: Check it out @ Amazon.com
ISBN: 0509515019
Reviewed by: Lee Prosser