Did anyone else catch DMB live on Fuse last night?

Double Agent · #1 06-02-2009, 08:24 AM

If so, your thoughts?

I caught it and they sure seem to be as on top of their game as they have ever been. Lots of shout-outs to Leroi (RIP) too, which was nice. Anyways, since this is the Bassists forum...

Stefan really impressed me this show. He played 3 different basses from what I can remember, but he mostly went back and forth between 2. One was an amazing Ken Smith 5-string, the other was a 4-string and I couldn't quite tell what it was. I want to say it was a Conklin because of the headstock, but I really couldn't say with any certainty. It looked similar to an Ibanez Ergodyne model, but it had a totally different headstock. That bass sounded the least impressive out of the 3. He also pulled out a Modulus Quantum fretless 5er when they played Everyday, which probably sounded the best out of the 3. Too bad he only used it that one time. Couldn't see what amp he was using, but he did have 2 Ampeg 8x10s behind him. Of course, they could just be for show, but I'm pretty he was NOT using in-ears (Dave was though).

As far as the playing, like I said the band was real tight. They had 3 extra guys; Tim Reynolds on electric guitar, then a trumpet player and a sax player, both of whom were very good. Stefan's tone seemed to be less scooped than usual. He was very present in the mix most of the time, especially when he played the Modulus. Also, his playing seems to have improved quite a bit during DMB's long break. He has always been, and likely will always be, primarily a support player in that band, but he stepped out and took over more than once. He exuded an energy that I've never seen from him before, usually he just stands in the same spot all night long. A couple times he crept towards the front of the stage next to Dave and was jumping around, having a good time. It was nice to see him step out of the shadows and bring some energy, I've only seen DMB a couple times, but I don't ever remember Stefan doing anything like that in the past.

It was a very enjoyable perfomance, you could tell the audience was having a great time, their new material sound great, and I will definitely be checking out if they come through central FL. I've always been a fan, they are a true musician's band who manages who to enjoy mainstream success without watering down their product. I am glad they are back. Just thought I would pass it on. Did anyone else catch this show?

jmac · #2 06-02-2009, 08:34 AM

I have it recorded. I can't wait to watch it. Thanks for your impressions.

Double Agent · #3 06-02-2009, 08:41 AM

Well, if you recorded it, I may have a bit of bad news. They went WAAAAAY pasy the 11:30 end time. You might not get all of the last song they did....before they came back for the encore. Still, I think you'll enjoy the parts you do get to see.

Froaderick · #4 06-02-2009, 08:43 AM

I caught about 30 min towards the end. Great sound, great show (from what i caught)

millsbass5 · #5 06-02-2009, 08:54 AM

I think the unknown bass you may be referring to may be a Huntington-Hill bass he's been using for a while.It's a custom build from some little known luthier whose name hasn't really gotten out there yet.They had one used on GC's website a while back.I think they was wanting around $1,600.00 for it.Or,maybe not,I didn't watch the show question.I did a search maybe 6 mos. ago and couldn't find anything on those basses.

Bernie Connors · #6 06-02-2009, 02:39 PM

Yeah, it was a very good show! I loved it. The band played like they haven't in awhile. They've often talked about that too. They feel like the old days again.

Stefan was using Ampeg SVT4PRO amps from what I could tell. Since he's down to two cabs now, he must have liquidated the 215 cab he once used in addition to the 810's.

The two horn players are Rashawn Ross and Jeff Coffin. Rashawn was with them on tour before Leroi passed away. Jeff has stepped in for Leroi and is doing a great job.

The black 4 string is indeed a Hill Custom. Bryan R. Tyler here on TB once owned a bass from him also. The Ken Smith had tone for days though. Great sound.

I'm picking up my copy of the new CD tonite! Can't wait.

There's also a 25 minute documentary on Hulu about the new album. They address the feel of the band right now and the hard times they endured/endure from Leroi's passing. Great viewing.

I've been a big fan for many years and they're sounding better now than they have in quite some time. Good times!!!!