by Martin Simpson
I contacted Jason after seeing his band on the ZAZone gig guide. Jason got back to me and sent me some pics for our website’s gallery. I asked Jason for an interview and he warned me that he didn’t talk much but even so, this was a nice chat we had in September 2005. I’m looking forward to receiving his contribution towards the Why I Play Bass article sometime in the near future.
How long have you been playing Jason?
Going on 3 years
How did you get started?
I bought a bass guitar for home recording purposes and then one day Andy Lund asked if I wanted to audition for the bass spot in the Roswell Kings
Do you come from a musical family?
No, but my parents decided that I had to learn an instrument at school.
What’s your favourite band / solo artist?
The Cure , Radiohead , Nick Cave ,the Cocteau Twins , the Cranes , muse , Dinosaur Jr to name a few.
What are the amps and instruments you currently use?
I’ve been using a 1978 Fender Mustang shortscale bass for nearly a year now.
In terms of amps, I use an Ashdown MAG300 head with an Ashdown 4X10 cab.
Effects wise I use a boss ME50B.
What instruments would you like to have if money were no object?
If money wasn’t an option, I’d build a kick ass studio. I’d also build a dedicated gig venue where bands can gig with the best PA … something like Brixton Academy or the Astoria in London….but better.
I’m happy with the equipment I have at the moment…….. ok ok maybe the boss syb5 pedal , some 5 string active bass and a 15 inch bin to go with my 4X10s
What have you been doing for the last five years or so?
I played piano at school for years, then trumpet in high school . I taught myself to play the guitar when I left school and played in various bands on and off for about 9 years .In 2003 Andy Lund was looking for a bass player to join the Roswell Kings and I gave it a chance and it worked out. Recently I’ve started a new band called Zenith along with some old friends.
Have you visited www.bassplayers.co.za yet?
Briefly. I’m not one to surf the net. I check my mail and log off.
What recordings that you’ve played on would you recommend for listening?
The Roswell Kings debut album “ No Cure For Trying” . It’s a great album …. Buy it and have a listen.
I’ve also recorded a lot of my own material at home and friend’s studios for shits and giggles.
Zenith have a few demos out there which you can download at www.the-Zenith.com .The sight is still under construction but I’m sure you can download the demos.
What’s been the low point in your career so far?
The drive up to JHB ….. I hate it with a passion.
Yeah, so do I - so what have been the high points?
Recording at Roof top studios with Hanu from the Narrow, our CD launch at the Armchair in Cape Town. Meeting all the awesome muso’s out there.
So what do you get up to when you haven’t got a bass strapped on?
Work in restaurants. Got to pay the bills somehow. Chef / waiter / barman / manager / consultant. Pick one I do them all.
When I’m not working, I head for the beach or up the mountain. Typical Capetonian.
What are your goals currently?
There are plans for The Kings to go back into the studio and record a 5 track EP but nothing is definite yet.
Thanks for the interview Jason.
No worries