Gingerbass is the professional name of multi-instrumentalist composer and producer, Ralf W. Garcia. Originally from Germany and now based in County Cork, Ireland, the veteran musician has spent the better part of the last 30 years as a working bassist on stage and in the studio. His new solo project is a collaboration with fellow Cork musician, guitarist David Donovan.
Lake City Kid is the debut EP from Gingerbass, released worldwide via all major streaming services October 20, 2023. Garcia explains that the title of the five-song set is an homage to his upbringing in the city of Konstanz at Lake Constance (German: “Bodensee”) in the southernmost part of Germany. Stylistically the record is a nod to some of the composer’s more diverse influences.
“Oh Yes” opens the EP and introduces the unique Gingerbass vibe. As Ralf rides a groove that is a mix of jazz fusion and late-80’s Rush, David slides between ethereal Andy Summers-style rhythm guitar and some pristine Pat Metheny inspired leads. The percussive title track follows. The tune leans a bit harder on the rock side of the fusion spectrum with some nice solos and a handful of tastefully chosen power chords.
“Writer’s Block” dives deeply into the smooth rhythmic and melodic interplay of these two musicians. They complete each other’s phrases with syncopated arpeggios and virtuosic leads. On “Turtleneck” the duo introduces a Latin vibe, as well as the jazziest track on the EP. Garcia and Donovan shine, as they do on the record closer “Finally”, an experimental downtempo prog-rock anthem that brings to mind the solo work of guitar legend, Robert Fripp.
Check out Lake City Kid by Gingerbass in its entirety below, or listen on your favorite streaming service. You can also hear “Turtleneck” on the Deep Dive : Jazz & Classical playlist, and the title track on Deep Dive : Pop & Rock. Follow the links below to connect with the artist.