Rich Brown bought his first six-string bass in 1999, "Everyone made

fun of me" he recalls with a characteristically warm smile - since then

he's established a reputation as first-call player for the leaders of an

impressive variety of adventurous projects, from Steve Coleman to

Rudresh Mahanthappa to James 'Blood' Ulmer. Over the past two

years, whenever time allows, he's been paying regular visits to the

studio of his friend, the guitarist and producer Elmer Ferrer. Away

from the pressures of the commercial industry, Rich seized the

opportunity to explore and expand the vocabulary of his instrument.

'NYAEBA' took shape: written and performed entirely on the bass

guitar. Rich drew inspiration from the many remarkable musicians

he's supported as a bassist, or encountered in the richly multicultural

music scene in his adopted hometown of Toronto. Throughout the

album, the commitment to melody and story ensures that the

technique, though prodigious, never overshadows the tale. Each tune

was built up with multiple tracks in the studio, with no looping or

sequencing involved. The sonic versatility on display is astounding,

but the album retains the organic, intimate feel of a performance.

This album will no doubt sit comfortably among the essential solo

bass albums, showcasing what's possible on the instrument. While

many solo bass records center the instrument itself, what's unique

about Rich's approach is that he puts the composition and music

first, using the electric bass as the vehicle. With a focus on texture,

movement and melody, and a striking range of voices, this is not your

average electric bass album.

A1. Ukudlala

A2. The Sum of Our Tears

A3. Heart of a Lonely Woman

A4. Nyaeba (The Griot)

B1. Kalagala Ebwembe

B2. Sowetoeira

B3. Turiyasangitananda - The Transcendental Lord's Highest Song of Bliss (A Meditation for Alice Coltrane)

B4. The Kingdom of Heaven is Within