The Push
What started as one time idea turned into a an entire album of music featuring original duo compositions by Ben, performed alongside one of his esteemed colleagues, all recorded live. Stay tuned for the next installment of
The Bass Pair Sessions.
Vol. 1: "Marco" (A Theme for Mandolin and Bass)
Bass Pair is a concept that I began working with about a year ago, when I started to compose duo pieces for upright or electric bass, alongside another instrument. To date, I have finished three compositions, of an eventual 8, all of which will be released as the final album.
A Theme for Bass and Mandolin was inspired by, and is my humble homage to, the legendary works of Edgar Meyer and Chris Thile - both of whom are, in my opinion, some of the greatest instrumentalists in their fields alive today. Their recordings, specifically alongside the likes of Yo-Yo Ma and Stuart Duncan, are a continual source of creative influence, pushing me to expand my facility on my instrument, and to never forget the pure joy of live collaboration.
I was joined on this particular recording by the great Achille Bocus, who is a classical virtuoso and composer in his own right, and was just crazy enough to sign up for this project. I am eternally grateful to him for his vision, discipline, and friendship. I hope you enjoy Vol 1., and will be sure to check back for Vol. 2 in the spring of next year.
Finally, if you would like support the self-production of this work, and want there to be another installment (as I most certainly do!), please take a moment to download "Marco" and support the future endeavors of this project. Thanks!