Loopy Tunes Charlie Hunter: Looped, Vol. 1 is an 859-loop, 1.65GB collection of jazzy, funky stuff from the seven-string guitarist. The collection includes 14 separate sessions recorded exclusively for The Loop Loft. It’s offered in WAV, AIFF (Apple Loops) and REX2 formats or as a customized Reason ReFill or Ableton Live Pack. Users can also download it instantly from The Loop Loft website. More info:thelooploft.com
Cans of Cognition AKG has added the K44 Perception, K77 Perception and K99 Perception (pictured) to its line of professional headphones. Both the K44 and K77 are over-ear, closed-back headphones that include leatherette ear pads and a self-adjusting headband. The K99 over-ear, semi-open headphones feature 40mm speakers that provide a natural, uncolored sound that’s ideal for the studio. More info:akg.com
Webbed Pahu International’s Black Widow Drum Web prevents any drum set from slipping, sliding or moving under even the most aggressive players. Featuring a net-like configuration of hook-and-loop material with a durable 600-denier nylon fabric, the Black Widow is anchored by gravity and the weight of the drummer on the throne. It folds into a 12- by 15-inch carrying case. More info:pahuinternational.com
Electric Slide Ableton, in conjunction with Soniccouture, has launched Electric Pianos, a software package consisting of two sampled classic electric pianos—the Rhodes Stage 73 and the Wurlitzer 200A. Their nuanced sounds and dynamics have been captured by Soniccouture, with every key being recorded at different velocity levels using vintage equipment. Electric Pianos features 70 instrument presets tailored for integration with Ableton Live. More info:ableton.com
On the Case Conn-Selmer and Vincent Bach have launched new trumpet and trombone cases that draw on vintage 1920s styling but are designed to accommodate contemporary players. Featuring a dark blue microfiber padded interior, the cases have an elegant brown leather trim with sturdy handles and gold hardware. They are slimmer than Bach’s original cases and have more storage space inside for accessories. More info:bachbrass.com
Education Guide Published annually in
DownBeat’s October issue
Jazz must not be the property of an elite few who possess
a vast knowledge of the music’s history, performers, nuances and intricacies.
But since jazz is a very advanced art form and has such a rich history, it’s important
to have a grounding in this tradition to fully understand and appreciate what’s
happening…More
