3 Levels of Jazz Basslines ft. Luther Hughes'
​INSANE Interplay on "Isfahan"

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There are 3 Levels of Jazz Basslines:

Level 1: Only Quarter/Half Notes (often also harmonically bland)
Level 2: The Hump (the notes between the quarter/half notes which create a rhythmic groove)
Level 3: Interplay ala Luther Hughes (rhythmic, harmonic and textural interest)

Since Luther is so in touch with the harmony, he knows how to create counter-melodies beyond simply punctuating the root. He is always listening which makes him a joy to play with - whether it's catching my rhythmic and harmonic ideas or whether it's listening for the spaces where he will insert his comments, just like in a conversation. 

Playing duo with Luther feels like you're playing together as opposed to being accompanied by a bassist (Level 1 & 2). 
This excerpt is from 3/6/20 from Bijan Taghavi & Luther Hughes' duo performance of "Isfahan" (Billy Strayhorn) at Jazz at the Merc in Temecula, CA. Join us for our first performance together in over 4 years, back at the Merc on Thurs 5/16/24 as we explore the ART OF THE DUO.