Musicians, #BassPlayers and friends often ask what I'm listening to. So I've decided to make a playlist of what I'm currently checking out (updated as needed). I have an eclectic taste in music and you'll find this on full display in my personal curated playlist, simply titled "2019 Playlist". Give it a spin! Cheers - Joseph

Photo credit by Chris Ozment Photography

Victor Wooten’s album “A Show of Hands” released in 1996, is a historic album in my opinion. This album is truly a “solo bass” album that features the incredible gifts of this extraordinary artist and amazing person. This album specifically showed all bass players (and musicians for that matter) what is possible with two hands and your instrument. Making the ultimate connection between heart, mind, spirit, soul = to the ears of each listener. Additionally, there are some beautiful songs with positive messages. The song “More Love” specifically had an impact on me.

As a whole, this album was a huge inspiration for my attempt at a similar vision and approach with my recording, “Alone Together” in 2002.

In closing, Victor’s album is a must for any aspiring musician and especially bass players. Add this album to your collection!

Released in 2005, this certainly isn't the first solo album from Marcus, but it is one in which I enjoy a lot. Marcus is a deep cat on many levels (playing/compositions/production/arranging). The stand out tracks for me on this album are: "Power Soul", "Sophisticated Lady", "Frankenstein", "Boogie On Reggae Woman", "Silver Rain" "Bruce Lee". Add this to your collection!

Jaco Pastorius - Jaco Pastorius

In the 1976, the bass and music world was never the same after the release of this incredible landmark album from Jaco on Epic Records. It's impossible to express just how revolutionary this album was (and still is). This album is quintessential for all aspiring bassists.

Weather Report was an all-star group that pushed the limits beyond jazz and into the future. In March of 1977, the sounds of Weather Report's "Birdland" from the album "Heavy Weather", filled the universe with the fretless magic of Jaco Pastorius. Check out the tune "Havona", which in my humble opinion is Jaco's finest hour as a composer, bassist, and soloist. If there was one tune to define the genius of Jaco, "Havona" is it!

Originally released in 1974 on Epic Records, Stanley's self-titled CD is a true masterpiece. His double/electric bass playing and compositions serve as a powerful combination into the mind of a genius. This is a must have!