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Fly Guitars Interview: Justin Meldal-Johnsen - part 4: trivia

Introduction | Gibson basses | Other equipment | Trivia


Trivia

FlyGuitarsNow on to the bonus round of silly but revealing questions

FlyGuitars Roundwound or flat?
JMJ Both

FlyGuitars Maple or Mahogany?
JMJ Both

FlyGuitars Active or passive?
JMJ PASSIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FlyGuitars Mud, thud or piano?
JMJ Mud

FlyGuitars Pick or fingers?
JMJ Both

FlyGuitars Ebony, Maple or Rosewood (please do not put down Wenge)?
JMJ Maple and Rosewood

FlyGuitars Digital or analogue?
JMJ Both. At the same time.

FlyGuitars Coke or Pepsi?
JMJ Coke!

FlyGuitars Cat or Dogs?
JMJ Cat

FlyGuitars VH-1 or MTV?
JMJ VH-1 is the only one that plays videos now, right? So VH1.

FlyGuitars Meat or potatoes?
JMJ Fish!

FlyGuitars Do you treat your basses as fine pieces of furniture (coffee table) or as tools?
JMJ Tools, but furniture if the value is over $2K. :-)

FlyGuitars Internet or boob tube?
JMJ Internet.

FlyGuitars Do you like basses with figured wood (flame/ curly) or do you like them with Plain Jane grain?
JMJ Plain Jane!!!!

FlyGuitars BEAD or CBGB?
JMJ CBGB!!

FlyGuitars Teletubbies or Sponge Bob?
JMJ Tubbies! 'Cuz that's what my baby girl likes.

FlyGuitars Thank you now back to more serious issues. What is your view of the current music industry situation as far as the death of CD sales/stores due to I pods and picking choosing single songs?

JMJ Inevitable. More changes are coming, get ready. But people still like music, so I'm not horribly distressed about it. Especially live music.

FlyGuitars Do you think that with today's technology and the fact that anyone can be a musician who owns a laptop or a MySpace account, that it dilutes music, or do you think it makes music better?

JMJ Dilutes it. There's too much quantity and not enough quality. I get way to many shitty demos (or Myspace page links) these days that end up depressing the hell out of me.

FlyGuitars Bands are getting dropped right and left by their labels, what does it take to make it in today's music industry?

JMJ Don't suck, don't be trendy, and persist.

FlyGuitars Do you find LA the center of the rock music industry?

JMJ Yeah. London is its own center, though.

FlyGuitars Thanks again I hope you enjoy the site in the future.

JMJ Absolutely! You guys do a great thing.

Justin with Alex Ebert, vocalist with Ima Robot
Justin with Alex Ebert, vocalist with Ima Robot
A selection of Justins basses
A selection of Justin's basses - Wal, Fender, Guild, Gibson, Rickenbacker and Hofner are all represented
Justin the bassist
Justin the bassist
Justin at the mixing desk
... and Justin the producer

Thanks to John (Redbird) Fertig and Justin Meldal-Johnsen for another great interview

Why not check out some of these links
Justin Meldal-Johnsen homepage
Ima Robot homepage
Beck homepage
and don't forget the other FlyGuitar interviews

Gibson bass guitars for sale

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Gibson Ripper (L9-S) Bass Guitar with Seymour Duncan

Gibson Ripper (L9-S) Bass Guitar with Seymour Duncan

New Florence, Pennsylvania, 159**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3500

Gibson Ripper (L9-S) Bass Guitar with Seymour Duncan.
This bass is in very good condition. There are a few small marks located in the pictures. Feel free to ask questions, can send more pictures. Must have at least 10 positive comments to purchase. For sale in the United States Only
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1965 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass in Pelham Blue oh-so rare & cool you need it !

1965 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass in Pelham Blue oh-so rare & cool you need it !

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$13495

These 2nd issue ??Non-Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. Most all T??bird??s were available in a Sunburst finish. But some were ordered in their select Custom Colors. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most luv??d optional color of Pelham Blue all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing but she??s has plenty of playtime wear. These tend to get funky from playing in ... more
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Bass guitar string mute From 1966 Gibson Thunderbird

Bass guitar string mute From 1966 Gibson Thunderbird

Cumming, Georgia, 300**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

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This bass guitar string mute is a must-have for any Gibson Thunderbird owner. Made in 1966, this mute is a rare find for collectors and musicians alike. It is designed to fit perfectly on your bass guitar and provides a unique sound that is sure to impress
Crafted with precision and care, this mute is made to last. It is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar ... more
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1982 Wal Pro Bass 1E Darkbursted body & matching neck its 1 of a kind & Minty !

1982 Wal Pro Bass 1E Dark'bursted body & matching neck its 1 of a kind & Minty !

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$11495

This Rare Pro IE Wal Bass was made in the Uk by the legendary guitar maker and electronics expert Ian Waller and Luthier Paul Stevens of the ?Electric Wood Ltd . Ian Waller was a bass player in the 60??s Manchester Scene .He honed his skills as an electronics mastermind and woodworker in London in the 60??s and became known for for his incredible guitar making abilities. He was commisioned to make custom Guitars for John Gustafson (Roxy Music??s bass player of the time), John G Parry of Caravan ... more
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Guild Starfire Bass - vintage 1972 - super clean

Guild Starfire Bass - vintage 1972 - super clean

Nolensville, Tennessee, 371**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3349

One of the cleanest ones you'll find, and it even has its original bridge cover (good luck finding another one with the cover!) It's been well-taken care of, to say the least. Comes with a newer Epiphone case, though I can't tell how old it is. There is an old, wonderful sounding set of flats on it - just what the doctor ordered!
Its sound is wide-ranging, and the factory bass boost toggle (not sure what Guild called this) will make you think you're playing
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Wal Pro Bass 1e - Black, 1978 Excellent Condition, Rare. With Original Wal Case

Wal Pro Bass 1e - Black, 1978 Excellent Condition, Rare. With Original Wal Case

Palm Coast, Florida, 321**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$9500

If you??re looking at this ad you??re probably already know what??s Wal basses are.
Here it is 1978 Wal Pro Bass 1e for sale. Serial number is 1301.
These basses were produced from 1978 to 1981 by Electric Wood Ltd.
The Pro Series was offered between 1978 and 1981. The first Wal Pro Bass had serial number PB1291.
I??ve had this bass since 2016, bought this guitar in London. The previous owner turned it to passive, but since the bass was located in England I??ve decided to send ... more
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1974 Gibson Ripper L9-S Bass Natural | Vintage Icon | Original Case Included

1974 Gibson Ripper L9-S Bass Natural | Vintage Icon | Original Case Included

Salt Lake City, Utah, 841**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2299

For Sale: 1974 Gibson Ripper L9-S Bass Natural | Vintage Icon | Original Case Included
Up for sale is a stunning 1974 Gibson Ripper Bass in its classic Natural finish, complete with its original hard-shell case. This vintage bass is in very good condition and is ready to deliver exceptional performance with that unmistakable classic Gibson tone
Condition & Features:
Cosmetic Wear: This bass shows some light scratches, dings, and general wear throughout, with noticeable wear on the ... more
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Gibson Ripper Bass Guitar Natural Finish with Case Early 1970s

Gibson Ripper Bass Guitar Natural Finish with Case Early 1970s

Hawleyville, Connecticut, 064**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2500

Good Working Condition
I am not a player looks to be all original but i can??t tell probably missing the tail cover
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Vintage Guild Starfire Bass Guitar Natural Wood Single Pickup 1960??s EMG Select

Vintage Guild Starfire Bass Guitar Natural Wood Single Pickup 1960??s EMG Select

Pleasanton, Nebraska, 688**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3000

Vintage Guild Starfire Bass Guitar Natural Wood Single Pickup 1960??s EMG Select

Includes everything shown??see photos
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Used 2022 Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass, Ebony

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Tampa, Florida, 336**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2380

A rock 'n' roll legend, Gene Simmons has inspired countless metal-heads to bring groovy, rockin' sound to the world. The 2022-model Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass carries that essence in the purest form. Built in America, this striking bass has a Reverse Thunderbird body made from mahogany, with a Mirror Plex pickguard for an awesome look. The rounded mahogany neck hosts an ebony fingerboard, and it's powered by a set of T-Bird pickups, each with individual volumes and a master tone ... more
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GIBSON NON REVERSE THUNDERBIRD BASS (P03047365)

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Spokane, Washington, 992**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

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Gibson Ripper Bass L-9S 1974 Ebony Black W OHSC ALL ORIGINAL

Gibson Ripper Bass L-9S 1974 Ebony Black W OHSC ALL ORIGINAL

Stanford, Kentucky, 404**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

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Incredible bass, almost like a time capsule this one is. Plays like butter, with all original parts. minimal play wear;
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OHSC included with key.

Offers considered !
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1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial - Rare Vintage Electric Bass

New York, 100**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

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1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial Bass ?? All Original, Near Mint Condition
This rare 1977 Gibson Thunderbird Bicentennial bass is in exceptionally well-preserved, near mint condition. Everything on the instrument is 100% original, including the electronics ?? with potentiometers dated to 1976. Importantly, the neck is completely intact, with no breaks or repairs, which is uncommon for this model. It comes with the original Gibson hardshell case
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1976 Gibson L-9S The Ripper Bass Black Finish w / OHSC

1976 Gibson L-9S The Ripper Bass Black Finish w / OHSC

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3495

This Is Located At Our Brick'n'Mortar Store In San Diego, CA
1976 Gibson L-9S The Ripper Bass
In Very Good Overall Condition - Shows Some Playwear Throughout - Small Nicks And Scratches - Pretty Nice For Being 49 Years Old
Original Pickups And Electronics
Original Frets In Very Good Condition - LOTS Of Life Left
Original Hardware - Shows Tarnish
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Nut Width: 1 61 "
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1988 Wal Mk. II 5-string Bass as perfect as Paul McCartneys for the righty guy.

1988 Wal Mk. II 5-string Bass as perfect as Paul McCartney's for the righty guy.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$14995

This Wal Mk. II 5-string Bass was made in the Uk by the legendary guitar maker and electronics expert Ian Waller and Luthier Paul Stevens of the ?Electric Wood Ltd . Ian Waller was a bass player in the 60??s Manchester Scene .He honed his skills as an electronics mastermind and woodworker in London in the 60??s and became known for for his incredible guitar making abilities. He was commisioned to make custom Guitars for John Gustafson (Roxy Music??s bass player of the time), John G Parry of ... more
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Rare Black Gibson 1976  Bicentennial Thunderbird / All Original / No Breaks

Rare Black Gibson 1976 Bicentennial Thunderbird / All Original / No Breaks

Louisville, Kentucky, 402**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5500

Only 91 Black Thunderbirds were produced in 1976 and here is one of the nicest I've seen. All original, no cracks, no breaks and an ebony fretboard. The neck is straight and really not a lot of playwear for it's age. Overall a fine playing bass. Original pickup cover, bridgecover plus a later hard-shell case that is also in fine condition. As per usual with older Thunderbirds, the strap button on the neck has been moved for better balance. It has never been gigged in the years I have owned it ... more
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1964 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass 1 of the best originals its 1 of a kind & Minty

1964 Gibson Thunderbird IV Bass 1 of the best originals it's 1 of a kind & Minty

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$27495

These early production Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most popular color of a Dark 2-tone Sunburst finish all over its neck & body. Very little yellowing appears yet she has slight playtime all over. These tend to get funky from playing in bars & clubs & get nicotine stained. Its rosewood fingerboard is straight as an arrow ... more
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1964 Gibson Thunderbird II Bass an outstanding example its 1 of a kind & Minty !

1964 Gibson Thunderbird II Bass an outstanding example its 1 of a kind & Minty !

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 333**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$17495

These early production Reverse?? Thunderbird??s & Firebird??s were so far ahead of time & very few were ever made comparatively to Fender??s P & J Basses. This particular example was ordered in Gibson??s most popular color of a Dark 2-tone Sunburst finish all over its pretty mahogany neck & body. Very little yellowing appears yet she has slight playtime all over. These tend to get funky from playing in bars & clubs & get nicotine stained. Its rosewood fingerboard is ... more
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Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Guitar

Gibson Non Reverse Thunderbird Bass Guitar

Beach City, Ohio, 446**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1599

Beautiful red sparkle non-reverse Thunderbird bass guitar professional set up excellent condition some very light scratches. Nothing to mention. Looks just like the pictures Babicz replacement bridge Bartolini Thunderbird pick ups Plays and sounds fantastic. New strings case has some scratches nothing major
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1974 GIBSON GRABBER  /  RIPPER BASS CASE - made in USA

1974 GIBSON GRABBER / RIPPER BASS CASE - made in USA

Kaufman, Texas, 751**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$370

Good working condition, all the latches and hindge work, lots of wear around the edge see pics
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