Janek Gwizdala Podcast
Dive deep into the music universe with the podcast that unveils the journey of one of the most influential bass players in the music industry – Janek Gwizdala. Designed for bass enthusiasts and musicians alike, each episode is a sonic exploration into the world of groove, gear. technique, and artistic evolution.
Janek Gwizdala, renowned for his mastery of the bass, shares his life's narrative – from the early days as a budding musician to his current status as a sought-after sideman and solo artist. Whether you're a seasoned bassist or simply appreciate the magic of live music, join us as we unravel the layers of Janek's experiences, revealing the secrets behind his signature sound.
Expect in-depth conversations with Janek and special guests, offering unique perspectives on music, composition, and the art of creating an unforgettable groove. Explore the challenges and triumphs of a professional bass player, gain insights into the creative process, and discover the stories behind some of Janek's most iconic performances.
Whether you're looking for inspiration for your own musical journey or simply want to bask in the rich tones of the bass, "The Janek Gwizdala Podcast" is your backstage pass to the world of bass and music.
Subscribe now for an intimate look at the life and legacy of Janek Gwizdala's bass-centric career.
janekgwizdala.substack.com
High String Action | Sharing My EXACT Setup in 2023
2023-07-31 15:05:00
I just had my bass setup for what I think is the first time since it was made... Not exactly a good example as a professional I know. But what that means is, besides the fact it feels and sounds great for the new album sessions in Argentina next week, I can now share all the exact numbers with you! I was fortunate to be introduced to a great bass tech here in Los Angeles a few days ago, Ryan Gleason, who snuck me into his busy schedule to help get the bass ready for the studio. Check Out Ryan’s Luthier Business in Los Angeles. Let me know in the comments if you think this setup up is on the high side, or maybe just normal for you. Get the new album via the pre-sale! Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
I just had my bass setup for what I think is the first time since it was made... Not exactly a good example as a professional I know. But what that means is, besides the fact it feels and sounds great for the new album sessions in Argentina next week, I can now share all the exact numbers with you!
I was fortunate to be introduced to a great bass tech here in Los Angeles a few days ago, Ryan Gleason, who snuck me into his busy schedule to help get the bass ready for the studio.
Check Out Ryan’s Luthier Business in Los Angeles.
Let me know in the comments if you think this setup up is on the high side, or maybe just normal for you.
Get the new album via the pre-sale!
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
How I Demo Songs For A Recording Session
2023-07-24 22:15:55
We are only 10 days away from cutting the new album in Argentina, and this episode takes a deep dive into my process for demoing songs, what I send to the other musicians, and how I prepare to record and give myself the best chance of success. Join the journey with the making of the new album and be a part of the PRE SALE NOW! I’ve added another bonus only available to people who are involved in the pre-sale, and that is to include the demos in the package. Listen side-by-side and see how a song changes from conception to finished product. And if you’ve ever thought about taking a private lesson with me, the new office hours I mention in today’s episode are LINKED HERE. Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
We are only 10 days away from cutting the new album in Argentina, and this episode takes a deep dive into my process for demoing songs, what I send to the other musicians, and how I prepare to record and give myself the best chance of success.
Join the journey with the making of the new album and be a part of the PRE SALE NOW!
I’ve added another bonus only available to people who are involved in the pre-sale, and that is to include the demos in the package. Listen side-by-side and see how a song changes from conception to finished product.
And if you’ve ever thought about taking a private lesson with me, the new office hours I mention in today’s episode are LINKED HERE.
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
Gadgets and Carry-Ons For Musicians
2023-07-17 15:05:00
I hope I've had enough crappy travel experiences to be able to bring a lot of you some useful information when it comes to deciding what to take on tour in your carry-on as a musician. Whether you’re boarding a plane to Japan or taking a van ride up the M62 to Huddersfield, traveling with the least amount of stress and the most functionality is the key! Don't forget the pre-sale for the new album is happening now, and we’re only 18 days away from heading to Argentina to put it all on the line in the studio. Your support is what makes this concept of making music for a living continue to be a viable option, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you all being so willing to be engaged in this journey with me. Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
I hope I've had enough crappy travel experiences to be able to bring a lot of you some useful information when it comes to deciding what to take on tour in your carry-on as a musician. Whether you’re boarding a plane to Japan or taking a van ride up the M62 to Huddersfield, traveling with the least amount of stress and the most functionality is the key!
Don't forget the pre-sale for the new album is happening now, and we’re only 18 days away from heading to Argentina to put it all on the line in the studio. Your support is what makes this concept of making music for a living continue to be a viable option, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you all being so willing to be engaged in this journey with me.
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
Why Would You Play A Signature Bass?
2023-07-10 22:58:57
As I say goodbye to the last short-scale bass in my collection this week, I'm ponding the fact that I no longer have one, and asking myself how I would go about designing or contributing to the production of the ideal short-scale 4-string bass. The Album Pre-Sale mentioned in the episode is here: New Album Chime in with your thoughts on how you perceive the whole signature bass thing, and what you would consider value being added to an instrument by a musician you admire or follow. Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
As I say goodbye to the last short-scale bass in my collection this week, I'm ponding the fact that I no longer have one, and asking myself how I would go about designing or contributing to the production of the ideal short-scale 4-string bass.
The Album Pre-Sale mentioned in the episode is here: New Album
Chime in with your thoughts on how you perceive the whole signature bass thing, and what you would consider value being added to an instrument by a musician you admire or follow.
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
Back From Tour | Flight Case Verdict
2023-07-05 15:05:00
Based on the past 17 days of being on the road, we have a definite winner for what I’m going to be using as my main flight case in the foreseeable future. I’m recapping a little of the East Coast Vital Information tour in today’s episode as well as getting to some key points about traveling with a bass in anticipation of a new video I’m working on for the main YouTube Channel. Our 4th of July sale is happening for the rest of today (July 5), so grab your 25% discount on books, book bundles, music and Stomp presets, using the coupon code “REDWHITEANDBASS” at checkout. Private lessons are 50% off for the sale , and there is no limit to how many you can purchase, and then spread out over time to work at your own pace. No discount code needed for the lessons! Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
Based on the past 17 days of being on the road, we have a definite winner for what I’m going to be using as my main flight case in the foreseeable future.
I’m recapping a little of the East Coast Vital Information tour in today’s episode as well as getting to some key points about traveling with a bass in anticipation of a new video I’m working on for the main YouTube Channel.
Our 4th of July sale is happening for the rest of today (July 5), so grab your 25% discount on books, book bundles, music and Stomp presets, using the coupon code “REDWHITEANDBASS” at checkout.
Private lessons are 50% off for the sale, and there is no limit to how many you can purchase, and then spread out over time to work at your own pace. No discount code needed for the lessons!
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
Going Back To 4-String Briefly
2023-06-26 15:30:00
As the sessions for the new album approach I’m hearing a few things that might be really suited to a 4-string, and since all my main gear is packed for touring as I’m recording these episodes, it’s a great chance to try and figure which second instrument I might take with me to Argentina. I think the Henrik Linder Mattisson will win out in the end. It’s one of the best neck’s I’ve ever played, and the bass isn’t even finished. Like my main instrument, it’s still just a prototype! Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
As the sessions for the new album approach I’m hearing a few things that might be really suited to a 4-string, and since all my main gear is packed for touring as I’m recording these episodes, it’s a great chance to try and figure which second instrument I might take with me to Argentina.
I think the Henrik Linder Mattisson will win out in the end. It’s one of the best neck’s I’ve ever played, and the bass isn’t even finished. Like my main instrument, it’s still just a prototype!
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
My Latest Warm-Up Routine Revealed
2023-06-19 15:30:00
To fend off boredom and always be inspired to sit down in the instrument to work, I’m constantly updating the content of my warm-up and my practice routine. I’m currently out on tour with Steve Smith and don’t have my studio to shoot in. This is one of a couple of episodes I banked at home before hitting the road, in an effort to keep our weekly chat consistent! You can find all the things I talk about in todays episode at my website if your curiosity is piqued, and you want to dig a little deeper: Janek Gwizdala Website Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
To fend off boredom and always be inspired to sit down in the instrument to work, I’m constantly updating the content of my warm-up and my practice routine.
I’m currently out on tour with Steve Smith and don’t have my studio to shoot in. This is one of a couple of episodes I banked at home before hitting the road, in an effort to keep our weekly chat consistent!
You can find all the things I talk about in todays episode at my website if your curiosity is piqued, and you want to dig a little deeper: Janek Gwizdala Website
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
Hello Old Friend... Putting The Mattisson Back To Work
2023-06-12 21:30:21
It’s both exciting and challenging to be playing this bass again. It is, after all, still a prototype. There are all kinds of intonation issues with it, the setup is not ideal, and it could probably do with an overhaul of the electronics. But the fundamental feedback I get from it when I play melodically, chordally, and basically just the music I’m working on for the new record, is priceless. Well worth the struggles for the payoff of range. As a result, I’m doing a little more playing in this episode than usual, and running you through some of the ways I’m preparing to go to Argentina in a few weeks to cut the new record. Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
It’s both exciting and challenging to be playing this bass again. It is, after all, still a prototype. There are all kinds of intonation issues with it, the setup is not ideal, and it could probably do with an overhaul of the electronics.
But the fundamental feedback I get from it when I play melodically, chordally, and basically just the music I’m working on for the new record, is priceless. Well worth the struggles for the payoff of range.
As a result, I’m doing a little more playing in this episode than usual, and running you through some of the ways I’m preparing to go to Argentina in a few weeks to cut the new record.
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
Selling Everything & Bringing Back a Classic
2023-06-05 15:02:00
The video I posted to my main channel two days ago was neither clickbait nor a joke. I really am selling almost every bass I own, and keeping just the bear minimum I require to do my job to the highest standard. I’m also going back to a main bass I feel very connected to, and that kind of unintentionally torpedos the title of my recent appearance on the SBL podcast:Why Janek REFUSES to play a signature bass (ever again). I’m not going back to trying to make a signature instrument, or to any of the chaos that the purchase of an FBass was meant to move me away from. But I am curious as to what a finished version of my Mattisson (I still only have a prototype) would feel like. I go into a little more detail of this move in today’s episode, and also show one of the basses that didn’t make it into the main-channel video. There are still a few left for sale at the website: https://janekgwizdala.com/store/basses I have a mega trip to the post office today as a lot of these sold just hours after the video going live. It’s a beautiful feeling to step into space and not into clutter in the studio, and I look forward to updating you further when the transition is complete. Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
The video I posted to my main channel two days ago was neither clickbait nor a joke. I really am selling almost every bass I own, and keeping just the bear minimum I require to do my job to the highest standard. I’m also going back to a main bass I feel very connected to, and that kind of unintentionally torpedos the title of my recent appearance on the SBL podcast:Why Janek REFUSES to play a signature bass (ever again).
I’m not going back to trying to make a signature instrument, or to any of the chaos that the purchase of an FBass was meant to move me away from. But I am curious as to what a finished version of my Mattisson (I still only have a prototype) would feel like.
I go into a little more detail of this move in today’s episode, and also show one of the basses that didn’t make it into the main-channel video.
There are still a few left for sale at the website: https://janekgwizdala.com/store/basses
I have a mega trip to the post office today as a lot of these sold just hours after the video going live. It’s a beautiful feeling to step into space and not into clutter in the studio, and I look forward to updating you further when the transition is complete.
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
In Conversation With Steve Smith
2023-05-29 15:01:00
It never gets old interviewing your heroes. The bigger they are, the kinder and more focused on what’s important they seem to have been. Steve all of that and more, and is one of the 9 people that inspired me to move to the US over 25 years ago. Between the two bands of the Brecker Brothers in 1992 and Steps Ahead back in 1986, there were nine musicians that changed my life forever and sent me on the mission I continue to be on today. I'm lucky enough to have now played with (except the bass players of course) all of those cats, and find myself in Steve's band Vital Information as it celebrates 40 years of existence. Here are our upcoming tour dates https://janekgwizdala.com/tour and I hope to get to meet some of you out on the road. Enjoy, Janek Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe
It never gets old interviewing your heroes. The bigger they are, the kinder and more focused on what’s important they seem to have been.
Steve all of that and more, and is one of the 9 people that inspired me to move to the US over 25 years ago. Between the two bands of the Brecker Brothers in 1992 and Steps Ahead back in 1986, there were nine musicians that changed my life forever and sent me on the mission I continue to be on today.
I'm lucky enough to have now played with (except the bass players of course) all of those cats, and find myself in Steve's band Vital Information as it celebrates 40 years of existence. Here are our upcoming tour dates https://janekgwizdala.com/tour and I hope to get to meet some of you out on the road.
Enjoy,
Janek
Get full access to Janek's Newsletter at janekgwizdala.substack.com/subscribe