Glenn Kindlmann

I am as much a musician who happens to play bass as I am a "bassist" per se. As a singer-songwriter who plays several instruments, I'm ideally looking for a certain combination of distinct sound and versatility in all the various tools I use to compose and perform music-- and I keep coming back to my Conklin GT-7 time and time again. I have an eclectic bass collection (acoustics, a half-scale model, an Ashbory, a fretless) but the GT-7 has never gathered dust. It feels like a friend, almost a sibling, not merely an instrument.

With its extended range and clear tone, this bass definitely deserves to be called "the piano of bass guitars." I've found it especially useful when gigging with acoustic guitarists-- I can lay down basslines and higher lead parts equally well, thus carving out a more pivotal role for myself in the musical landscape. You're unlikely to get relegated to "background" status when playing this instrument, that much is certain.

On a basic level, the GT-7 is a great compositional tool-- you do in fact have two thirds of a piano right there in your hands. But in loftier terms, my Conklin is a remarkable conduit for inspiration. Whether I'm looking to craft a thunderously low bassline, or a melody and harmony parts, or even chords, I have all I need on one neck. Musical ideas come easily and flow freely. The action is low, harmonics ring clearly, tapping is a breeze. It's a joy to work with.

Four-string bass purists have no idea what they're missing! Though the wider neck may look daunting to some, the design and construction of the GT-7 make it remarkably playable, even for someone with average-sized hands (like me). The adjustment is easy. Don't let naysayers discourage you from graduating into the 7-string realm, if that's your natural inclination.

Besides getting plenty of "looks" while playing out with this gorgeous slab of wood and metal-- it's a jaw-dropping, show-stopping work of art, to be sure-- you'll also be starting on a whole new musical journey. Isn't that more to the point? The GT-7 is truly a musician's instrument, not merely an "axe" for playing standard eighth note basslines on the tonic. If you're ready for more, a GT-7 will help you create whatever kind of "more" you crave.

I currently live in the Atlanta metro area and can be reached at merkinizer@yahoo.com especially if you have musical opportunities in mind. I am working on multiple projects currently (with sounds/influences too numerous to list here), but I remain open to new possibilities and collaborations with the right people. I'd enjoy hearing from you!

peace,
Glenn Kindlmann