BASSIST

In July 2004, Doug took a trip up to Bend Oregon to visit his brother, at which time he became aware of a bass luthier in Redmond,Oregon by the name of Lee Barker, who designed a "Vertical" electric bass. Doug tried to get together with Lee at that time, but they couldn't connect, so Doug left his business card at Lee's shop.

After returning to Santa Cruz, Doug received an e-mail from Mr. Barker asking if he'd be interested in recording some tracks on the "Barker Vertical Bass" for the Barker web-site. Doug replied to the e-mail immediately, telling Lee that he'd be honored to do the project. After quite a bit of planning, Doug returned to Oregon at the end of October, 2004, and met the incredible and most gracious Lee Barker himself. He recorded the session along with his brother Dean on drums (Dean is the owner of "Mancini Custom Wood-Finishing" of Bend Oregon, and does all the Barker Vertical Bass custom finishing), and Clay Smith of Soundsmith Studios of Bend, Oregon, who handled the engineering and final mix.

The "Barker Vertical Bass" is unlike any other electric up-right. It's design is totally unique. The real "magic" is in the tone, due to the completely original body design of the "Barker Bass". It has a standard 34" scale neck, and a basic Jazz bass pick-up configuration. Even if you've never played an up-right, you'll feel right at home with this baby.

Find out more about this amazing instrument, hear some audio samples below, and be sure to visit the Barker Bass Website.

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