March 16, 2017

Throwback Thursday: Racer X shredding at the Omni

March 16, 2017/ Juan Alderete

As I practice my ass off trying to get my skills back in place for Halo Orbit shows, I started to get nostalgic about my past shred days. Sometimes, at one of my clinics or at music schools, I will tell kids how I used to practice with Paul Gilbert at Musicians Institute. My routine would start with practice from 6am to 9am, then go to class, home to eat, then over to Paul's to rip on new Racer X riffs. I would practice 16 hours a day all in the name of speed and shred.

May 05, 2016

Throwback Thursday: Racer X & How to Manage Your Time As A Musician

May 05, 2016/ Juan Alderete

This is going to sound a little corny, but timing is everything for us bass players. Yes, we have to be the foundation for the groove in music but we also have to manage our time well in our careers as musicians.

April 06, 2016

Vintage Basses vs. New Basses

April 06, 2016/ Juan Alderete

As a fan of vintage basses who often uses them on records and on tour, people often ask me, “Do vintage basses sound better than new ones, and is there that much of a difference?” Before I answer this, let me give you a rundown on my personal history with vintage basses.

January 14, 2016

Throwback Thursday: Another Bass Solo via Racer X

January 14, 2016/ Juan Alderete

Following the topic of live bass solos, I have to reach back into the Racer X archive and bring out my solo onExtreme Volume. For me, the best thing about this is to see my evolution when put under the improvised solo spotlight. The main difference between this solo and the solo I posted last week is this one has drums backing me.