Search - Devin Hoff :: Solo Bass

The debut solo release from veteran performer Devin Hoff, Solo Bass is a collection of improvisations and original compositions for string bass. Laying down ten complete and compelling tracks on an instrument usually relegated to the musical background, Hoff has begun to develop a new body of work for bass: one neither bound by traditionally supportive roles, nor obscured by virtuosic egoism. Solo Bass draws on the intimate solo work of Munir Bashir, Joao Gilberto, Lightnin' Hopkins, and Joelle Leandre, as well as the profound inspirations of Ornette Coleman, The Carter Family and Black Sabbath. Extra-musical inspiration comes from historic and present traditions of insurrectionary libertarian socialism, with song titles derived from North American anarchist newspapers as well as theories of the evolution of revolutionary praxis. Radical 20th century art movements also serve as direct influences, from Russian Constructivism to Brazilian Tropicalismo. Devin Hoff is perhaps best known for his work in the jazz and creative music world, playing with musicians such as Nels Cline, Vijay Iyer, Joshua Redman, Steven Bernstein, Carla Bozuliuch, Bill Frisell, Carla Kihlstedt, Ches Smith, Ron Miles, Ben Goldberg, Scott Amendola, Tony Malaby, John Brion, Mary Halvorson, Jessica Pavone, Bobby Bradford, and many more. He was named a "rising star" in the 2008 Downbeat critics' poll, and has played on hundreds of records as well as several film and stage soundtracks. He is currently a member of Good For Cows, The Nels Cline Singers, Devin Hoff Platform, Plays Monk, Polly Holliday, and John Dieterich s Lost Planet. He is a former member of Xiu Xiu, 7 Year Rabbit Cycle, and Redressers; and a sometime member of Evangelista.