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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

$400

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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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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Vintage 1978 Gibson Ripper Bass Natural Yellow With Gator Hardcase

Vintage 1978 Gibson Ripper Bass Natural Yellow With Gator Hardcase

Brooklyn, New York, 112**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3999

The Vintage 1978 Gibson Ripper Bass in Natural Yellow with a Gator Hardcase is a highly sought-after electric bass guitar for right-handed players. This unique instrument features a solid body design, maple fretboard and neck, and 20 frets, delivering a classic sound that is perfect for vintage music enthusiasts. With the iconic Gibson brand and quality craftsmanship, this bass guitar is a must-have for collectors and musicians looking to add a unique piece to their collection.... more
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Vintage 1976 Gibson L-9S Ripper Electric Bass Guitar w / Original Case

Vintage 1976 Gibson L-9S Ripper Electric Bass Guitar w / Original Case

Fresno, California, 937**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3400

American Music is proud to present this beautiful Gibson Ripper Bass!
Bass was kept in its ORIGINAL case, as the case is pretty beat up
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Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass Electric Guitar with Case

Gibson Gene Simmons G2 Thunderbird Bass Electric Guitar with Case

Newman, Illinois, 619**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2000

Gibson G2 Thunderbird bass in great shape with official case. There are some markings near the volume pots and a bit of wear here and there but overall in great shape and the Emg's are awesome in this. This has relatively no neck dive compared to most of the T birds and the new bridge is awesome and a lot easier to work with. Fantastic bass Gibson really knocked it out of the park with this one
Gene Simmons is a legendary rock icon and the bassist from KISS, and his new Gibson Gene Simmons ... more
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1976 Gibson The Ripper Fretless L9-S Vintage Bass Ebony w /  Case, Hangtag

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Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3800

Up for sale, a 1976 Gibson ??The Ripper?? Fretless L9-S in excellent, 100% original condition and in perfect working order, complete with the original hardshell case and hangtag. One of the more unique and versatile Gibson basses ever produced, this is the uncommon fretless version of the Ripper, equipped with its original pair of Bill Lawrence-designed ??Super Humbucking?? pickups and a four-way rotary switch for series, parallel, and out-of-phase pickup settings.
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Gibson Truss Rod Cover / Epiphon Thunderbird Bass Guitar

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Deer Park, Washington, 990**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$599

The Gibson-Epiphone Thunderbird Bass Guitar is a high-quality electric bass guitar designed for right-handed musicians. With its classic 4-string configuration and distinctive Tobacco Sunburst body color, this model is a stylish and reliable choice for bass players. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned musician, the Thunderbird offers a rich sound and smooth playability that is sure to impress. The Gibson brand ensures top-notch craftsmanship and durability, making it a trusted choice for any... more
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1977 Gibson L-9S Ripper Natural

1977 Gibson L-9S Ripper Natural

Nazareth, Pennsylvania, 180**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2799

Just in is this beautiful 1977 Gibson L-9S ??The Ripper?? Bass in natural

Quick Details

Make ?? Gibson

Model ?? The Ripper

Year -1977

Color -Natural

Weight ?? 10 72lbs

Nut Width ?? 1 9 / 16ths??

Neck Depth at 1st fret ?? 0 83??

Neck Depth at 12th fret ?? 0 98??

Case ??Original hard case

Serial # 73047092

Description

Just in is this beautiful 1977 Gibson ??The Ripper?? bass. This bass is in ... more
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1979 Gibson Ripper Fretless Ebony Black OHSC Rare

1979 Gibson Ripper Fretless Ebony Black OHSC Rare

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

$2999

For Sale: 1979 Gibson Ripper Fretless ?? Ebony Black w / OHSC
Up for sale is a 1979 Gibson Ripper Fretless in Ebony Black, complete with its original hard-shell case
This is a very cool and very rare original fretless Gibson bass from the late ??70s. Original fretless Rippers do not come up often, and this one has all the bold visual presence and unmistakable feel that make these basses so appealing. With its long-scale Gibson design, ebony fingerboard, and classic Ebony Black finish, it... more
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Gibson "The Ripper"  L-9s  Original Bass Guitar 1970s

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Marquette, Wisconsin, 539**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

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Very good condition, made from 1973-1983. A favorite of rock musicians of the era. Serial number scratched out indicating minor imperfections that made it a factory second quality. Great playing bass guitar with incredible sound
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Basse Gibson Ripper Fretless Black Ebony  ~  1976

Basse Gibson Ripper Fretless Black Ebony ~ 1976

Balanod, 39***, FRANCE

€2550

Superbe basse Fretless Gibson "The Ripper" L-9-SF Black, touche ébène, en très bon état. ~ 1976Configuration d'origine passive avec 2 micros humbuckers Bill Lawrence d'origine, sélecteur 4 positions d'origine, réglages Volume, Treble et Tone. Potentiomètres "CTS" et condensateurs "TAD Mustard" neufs. Chevalet d'origine avec pontets laiton réglables en hauteur individuellement. Etui d'origine usagé inclus
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Gibson Thunderbird IV  READY TO GIG

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Nocera Superiore, 84***, ITALY

€6990

Thunderbird IV Bass, READY TO GIG This instrument has had its neck and headstock replaced , repainted in black ,the diameter of the nut is 10 cm 1\2 on the first fretthe serial number, engraved on the replaced headstock, is 21 81 20, the frets have been transferred on the new neck, Everything else, regarding the body it has been repositioned .The potentiometers have been replaced, they are not the original onesThe "soapbar" pickups are original and unmistakable in sound, I supply the replaced ... more
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Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1964 - Sunburst

Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1964 - Sunburst

London, UK, UNITED KINGDOM

£11999

FINESTSELECTIONSHIPPINGSPECIALISTS24 HourSupportLondon Vintage Guitars are please to offer:Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1964 - SunburstGibson Thunderbird BassYear: 1964
Condition: Excellent
DescriptionTHE CLASSIC BIRD
We are happy to offer the following Classic Gibson Thunderbird details as follows
1964 Gibson Thunderbird Bass
Sunburst
Twin Pickup
Internally / Externally Original
Condition: 8 / 10 – Normal playing wear
Original Case
Comments
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Gibson The Ripper L-9S Bass 1973-83 doccasion

Gibson The Ripper L-9S Bass 1973-83 d'occasion

Berck, 62***, FRANCE

€4500

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Vendu avec un étui fait maison et non l'étui d'origine
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Guild Starfire Bass 1966

Guild Starfire Bass 1966

Marino, 00***, ITALY

€3500

GUILD STARFIRE BASS 1966!!! Awesome vintage bass in perfect condition considering it is almost 60 years old . SOUNDS GREAT!!! The hinge straps on the case are a little worn but they close and open without problems
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Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1979

Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1979

Oldham, OL8***, UNITED KINGDOM

£1843

The Gibson Thunderbird Bass 1979 is a classic electric bass guitar that embodies the iconic design and craftsmanship of Gibson instruments. With a solid mahogany body, walnut fretboard, and 4-string configuration, this right-handed bass offers exceptional sound quality and playability for musicians and bass players. The vintage appeal of this model adds to its allure for those seeking a unique and timeless addition to their musical arsenal.... more
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Used 1991 Orville by Gibson  /  Terada MIJ Thunderbird Bass Sunburst 4 11kg W / GB

Used 1991 Orville by Gibson / Terada MIJ Thunderbird Bass Sunburst 4 11kg W / GB

Sarnia, Ontario, N7T***, CANADA

C $1800

I purchased this in 2021 with intent to learn but never found the time. It has been in a case unused since then
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