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Todd Johnson is recognized
as a pioneer of the six-string bass. With his custom Yamaha six-string
bass, equipped with a midi pick-up, Johnson uses an innovative technique
where he plays chord changes and bass lines simultaneously. Additionally
his use of the midi interface, a technology that allows his instrument to
sound like many instruments at the same time, adds both harmonic color and
texture that further defines his unique sound. Bass Player
magazine's Ed Friedland says, "Todd can simultaneously swing like Ray
Brown and accompany like organist Jimmy Smith."
As an integral member of the
critically acclaimed jazz trio of guitarist Ron Escheté, Johnson excels
as both a supporting musician and a seasoned soloist. He is consistently
cited for his contributions of skill, originality, and versatility, as
well as his ability to sound as if he is simultaneously playing multiple
instruments. Group leader Ron Escheté says "Todd . . . can sound
like a second guitar player or even an organ or electric piano." Zan
Stewart of the Los Angeles Times writes that Johnson's six-string
bass along with Escheté s seven-string guitar "give the musicians an
amazing range of sounds and approaches." The group is repeatedly
hailed as the trio that sounds like a quartet.
Since joining forces with
Ron Escheté, Johnson has recorded 5 CDs with the trio, including their
latest effort entitled Live at Rocco. The trio has performed at numerous
festivals, concerts and club dates throughout the United States. Johnson
has recently completed his first solo CD entitled A Solo Offering.
In addition to his work with
the Ron Escheté Trio, Johnson has performed and recorded with other
artists, including Mike Stern, Dave Weckl, Scott Henderson, Plas Johnson,
Sam Most, Joe LaBarbera, Poncho Sanchez, Paul Humphrey, and Frank Gambale.
As a seasoned performing
artist, Todd Johnson has developed a rich philosophy encompassing his
spiritual, educational and achievement-oriented sides. Johnson sees his
talent as a gift to continually enhance and develop.
Todd has developed an incredible new course
for bass... THE
WALKING BASS LINE MODULE SYSTEM takes the "mystery" out of learning to
play walking bass lines by breaking it down into small "bite size" chunks
that anyone can "digest!"
In Volume 1 - Triad Module System, learn: Strong beat / weak beat theory •
Ear training / play what you hear • Blues Changes • Autumn Leaves Changes
• Control major and minor triads • Chromatic approaches from above & below
• Solid, organized practice plan
For more information visit
here! |
