As the world continues to recover from the Coronavirus, we’re all finding ourselves in unfamiliar territory given the subsequent lockdown that is keeping us off of stages and confined to our homes. Luckily, there’s comfort in the fact that we’re all in this together, and that there are still many outlets for us musicians to keep us active and sane throughout this quarantine. We’re checking in with bass players from all over the world to see what they’re doing to stay entertained, healthy, productive, and safe during this trying time.

Bass Player: Darryl Anders

Bands & Artists: AgapeSoul, Booker T. Jones, Tower of Power, Zigaboo Modeliste

Home: San Francisco, California 

How have you been passing time during the lockdown?

I’ve been working from home developing new ideas for bass products for MXR, and reaching out to friends to make sure they’re safe and healthy. And spending quality time with my wife and family.

What have you been working on in terms of your bass practice routine?

I’ve enjoyed revisiting music that inspired me when I first started playing, that was too difficult to grasp at the time. It’s fun to discover some things that I didn’t know I could do.

What music, songs, recordings, artists, bass players have you been listening to as a source of comfort and inspiration that you can recommend?

YellowJackets’ early catalog—Jimmy Haslip is the best! Donald Fagen’s Morph The Cat—Freddie Washington has the most impeccable pocket and super tasty bass lines. Doug Johns’ Party Mix—just ridiculous! Snarky Puppy’s Immigrance—Michael League is a genius and a super nice guy!

Kirk Franklin’s Long Live Love. Lyle Lovett’s Joshua Judges Ruth. Anything by Incognito. Michael McDonald’s Wide Open—Willie Weeks, Marcus Miller, Michael Rhodes, Tommy Sims, Leland Sklar, Lance Morrison and Craig Young all on one album!

What bass gear have you been playing and trying out?

The Apollo Twin recording interface, MXR Clone Looper, Trickfish Minnow bass preamp, Serek Sacramento bass, and my ash/maple and alder/rosewood Stenback 5-strings.

What non-music activities books, shows, movies or workout recommendations do you have?

I binge watched all six seasons of Downton Abby—don’t judge me!

I loved the PBS special, Miles Davis Birth of the Cool. And I’m reading Ryan Madora’s book, Bass Players You Should Know.

What projects do you have coming up when the world gets going again?

I have a new AgapeSoul CD due out later this year. I’ve been writing and collaborating with some of my favorite musicians on that project. I love writing and producing music.

What advice can you offer fellow bassists for staying positive and keeping morale high?

This situation has affected so many people and made it difficult to take care of the basic necessities of everyday life. If you can help somebody, anybody, friend or stranger, don’t hesitate. Make a phone call to check in, purchase online lessons or sessions. Donate to your local church or food bank. Whatever you’re able to do. Kindness is a powerful thing and music is a universal language. Musicians have a strong sense of community and we will get through this. 

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All check-ins compiled and edited by Jon D’Auria & Chris Jisi