The "Expansive Breadth of Electric Bass Guitar in Action" series has its inaugural event at Traditions Tavern (4514 Kenny Rd, Columbus, Ohio, Jt Henry), beginning at 9:00 PM. This free concert exhibits the full breadth of electric bass guitar, highlighting the many intriguing ways the instrument can be used. The first event of the series is subtitled Bass Fission and features central Ohio bassists (the series organizer) Myke Rock (Dirty Red Sunshine, Bobby Messano, Screaming Urge), Steve Perakis (Honk Wail & Moan), Phil Maneri (The Truth, Morgan, MacDonell & Maneri), and Bradley Mellen (Alex Schrock Trio, Bradley Mellen Quartet), with drummer Erik Diaz (DRS, Ex-Hot Tuna). Bassist John Zuck (Austin & The Syd Experience) performs a solo opening set. Below, view the Ohio Arts Council support statement, and individual artist biographical information with links to music and more.
The Ohio Arts Council, Artist Opportunities, Professional Artist Grant supports this artist in producing a series of four performances in central Ohio from January through March 2026, featuring Columbus-based bass guitarists showcasing the full musical range of the instrument. The project reimagines popular and off-the-beaten-path songs by replacing traditional instrumental and vocal parts with bass interpretations, highlighting the instrument’s versatility.
Series Co-Sponsor: Music Go Round Columbus http://www.musicgoround.com/locations/columbus-oh
Artists...
Steve Perakis has taught double bass and electric bass privately and at local music stores for over 20 years. He has performed in dozens of cities in the United States, Europe and Thailand, with dozens of different musical groups at festivals, night clubs and private functions. He is a studio musician at area studios and for many professional colleagues. His performances have appeared on several soundtracks, area television commercials and on local recordings. For over 20 years he's managed business activities of various musical groups, produced audio recordings for release, composed and arranged music in multiple genres, for ensembles ranging from three to 11 pieces. He has also been commissioned to compose music for short films and modern dance works.Among others, Perakis has performed with Honk Wail & Moan, Big Gritty, Stan Smith Plus, Disorder, Furs, Porterhouse Surf, Schtick, QED Jazz, Thunder Mustard, Totally Bogus, Yumbambe, and Zancudo. https://www.facebook.com/steveperakis
Phil Maneri (formerly of the popular band Drumzand Wires) is a prominent professional musician, bassist, and luthier who has been active in the Columbus, Ohio, area for over four decades. He is the owner and proprietor of the Fifth Avenue Fret Shop in Grandview, a well-known establishment for instrument sales and repairs. https://maneri.net
Myke Rock is an experienced and well-known bassist, particularly prominent in the Columbus, Ohio music scene, known for his work in numerous rock, blues, and punk bands. He is noted for his long list of musical accomplishments and is a frequent performer at events like ComFest, where he was an Honored Artist in 2023. http://www.mykerock.com
Brad Mellen is a versatile musician known as a bassist, cellist, composer, arranger, and bandleader. He performs in various ensembles, including the Alex Schrock Trio and the Brad Mellen Quartet, primarily in the central Ohio area. Mellen has also performed with Bobby Floyd, Laura Camara... https://bradleymellen.com
Erik Diaz is a professional drummer, recording/mixing engineer, and producer based in Northeast Ohio. He is best known for his time as the drummer for the blues rock band Hot Tuna from 2004 to 2009. https://www.facebook.com/erik.diaz.7927
Opening: John Zuck is a long-time favorite bassist based in Columbus, Ohio. Zuck is recognized for his distinctive playing style, particularly his slap bass technique and driving rhythm. He is currently a member of the band Austin and The Syd Experience. https://www.facebook.com/john.zuck.902
FOR COMPLETE EVENT DETAILS: https://www.mykerock.com/tour-events/2836901_expansive-breadth-of-electric-bass-guitar-in-action-1-4-bass-fission-fri-jan-30-at-traditions-tavern-columbus-an-oac-grant-supported-event -OR- https://www.mykerock.com/tour-events -OR- http://www.mykerock.com
Event Links
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3410131-0
