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Fly Guitars Interview: Andy Fraser - part 4: Andy Fraser band / solo

Introduction and John Mayall's Bluesbreakers | Free | Sharks | Andy Fraser band | Naked...and Finally Free


Andy Fraser band

Andy Fraser band
The first album by the Andy Fraser band from 1975 was simply titled Andy Fraser band.

FlyGuitars Your next release was The Andy Fraser Band in 1975; that was yourself on bass and vocals, Nick Judd on keyboards and Kim Turner on drums. After the Sharks record were you keen to get back to being the singer in the band?

Andy Fraser Exactly. It was important to start digging in, learning all I could, strengthening my voice, and getting all the experience I could if I was gonna sing the songs I was writing. Nick Judd is a very talented keyboard player, and Kim Turner quite the energy on drums. It was later to come full circle, when later, Kim who went on to co-manage the Police with Miles Copeland, managed me through the Fine, Fine Line period. Last year, sadly he died of cancer - which is unbelievable to consider - he was younger than me. We must make the most of each moment. A great, very very generous guy!

FlyGuitars With no guitar on this record the bass is used more as a lead instrument - something you were thinking about whilst playing with Frankie Miller? Did you put the Andy Fraser Band together intending not to have a guitar player?

Andy Fraser I suppose so. Without giving it that much thought. Nick Judd made a great sound with just keyboard and bass pedals, and I was tweaking around with the very early pedals available them - laughable when you consider what is available today, so it didn't seem like we needed anything else.



Andy Fraser solo albums

In Your Eyes
The first solo album by Andy Fraser, In Your Eyes was also released in 1975.

FlyGuitars Following quickly in footsteps of the Andy Fraser Band, you recorded a solo record In Your Eyes in the latter part of 1975 at the Muscle Shoals studio with a larger band consisting of yourself on vocals and bass guitar, Roger Hawkins on drums, Barry Beckett on keyboards, Pete Carr and Jimmy Johnson on guitar and the Muscle Shoals studio horn section, what memories do you have of that recording?

Andy Fraser Being in awe of their talent. This was the band that had backed up so many of my favorite singers. Aretha, Staples singers, Wilson Pickett. I was a little overwhelmed by the situation I think. It was one of those record 2 tracks a day, 10 in five, 10 vocals on day 6, and mix on day 7. Finish. I would need to be Aretha Franklin, to come out smelling pretty, and I didn't yet have that experience. So, a sharp learning curve. Jump in the deep end, as it were. (Sounding so British today).

FlyGuitars First Water, Andy Fraser Band and In Your Eyes are three very different sounding records but all demonstrate consistency as a strong songwriter and bass player. Was it your desire to constantly put out very different sounding records or just that you didn't feel settled with any one of these bands?

Andy Fraser Still reaching towards a place I felt far from. Truthfully, with this latest release, Naked... and finally Free (see part 6) it is the first time I have felt - OK we are starting to lock in now. It feels and sounds natural, I can still listen to it, which was rarely the case before.

Andy Fraser - Fine Fine Line
The second solo album by Andy Fraser, Fine Fine Line.

FlyGuitars Fine Fine Line (1984) was released ten years after In Your Eyes - why was there such a long gap before its release and why did you choose not play bass on that record?

Andy Fraser I had moved to the US. Made a complete break, and spent most of my time writing and strengthening my voice. It was the aforementioned Kim Turner, who was the motivating force to do the Fine, Fine Line project. I chose not to play bass on the record, so as to give full attention to the vocals. We all have only 100% to give at the best of times, and I felt sub-dividing my energies with both Bass and vocals, would have short changed the singing, which I was intent to making stronger.

FlyGuitars The production on that record sounds very much of the time but the songs again show off your song writing ability, was that a hard record to make after such a long break?

Andy Fraser Not from that point of view. Because I was concentrating solely on the song and the singing, it was starting to get easier. I think Michael Thompson is an incredible guitarist, and Bob Marlette a one of a kind keyboard player, very talented. Actually it fell apart for very strange reasons. In my mind I thinking of them as band members, although I was paying them to rehearse - (I know, does not compute), and after we finished the record, the label says great, but we only want to sign you, not the other guys. As you can imagine, things go down hill fast after that. We went out on tour, with a bunch of different guys, and everything starting going sideways.




Thanks to Graham Fieldhouse and Andy Fraser

Gibson bass guitars for sale

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1961 Gibson EB-6 string Bass Sunburst w / PAF

1961 Gibson EB-6 string Bass Sunburst w / PAF

Carbondale, Illinois, 629**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$14900


Add Me to Your Favorite Sellers
Olivia's Vintage would like to present this 1961 Gibson EB-6 Bass in its original Sunburst finish. It has a great playing neck with great frets. It's all original with the exception of the earlier Gibson knobs, the switch and one tuning key. All original tuning key is included, but its tuning button had shrunken and crumbled. A vintage double-ring Gibson Deluxe tuning key is holding the place for the original. The original hardshell case is included. This ... more
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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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1972 Gibson L6-S Bass Prototype (Ripper, Grabber) Singlecut Sunburst

1972 Gibson L6-S Bass Prototype (Ripper, Grabber) Singlecut Sunburst

Syracuse, New York, 132**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$9000

1972 Gibson L6-S Bass Prototype (Ripper, Grabber) Singlecut Sunburst
 
This bass guitar is the prototype for the L6-S bass, a model that was never manufactured by Gibson. Although it is the prototype for an instrument that was not produced, it also seems to be a prototype of the Ripper and Grabber models introduced later that are constructed with the same materials (maple neck and body) and similar dimensions. The look of this one does foreshadow those later models
SETUP & ... more
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1965 Gibson EB-2 Bass a very special ordered EB-2 in a factory Argentine Gray !

1965 Gibson EB-2 Bass a very special ordered EB-2 in a factory Argentine Gray !

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

$8995

The Gibson EB-2 Bass was invented in 1959 & made famous by many players. This example is oh-so rare & very special ordered by its 1st owner & is 1 of the coolest special ordered EB-2??s from 1965. Its beautiful slightly faded original ??Argentine Gray?? custom color finish is what this is all about & its so frickin rare. Its 1 of only 2 of this color known to exist. Its 1 piece mahogany neck feel delicious. No volute nor Made in the USA stamp. She??s got a perfect orange label ... more
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1958 Gibson EB-2 Thinline Bass Guitar

1958 Gibson EB-2 Thinline Bass Guitar

Keene, New Hampshire, 034**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$7500

1958 Gibson EB-2 Electric Bass. All original and in excellent condition. Tobacco Sunburst finish. Single pickup, earliest version. Laminated maple thinline body. Banjo tuners in excellent condition. Serial number is A27810. A total of 90 EB-2 basses were shipped in 1958. Comes with original case in very good condition with all functioning latches. A very nice example for any vintage Gibson collection. Shipping will be $150 00 in the CONUS. I only ship in the USA
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1968 Gibson EB-2 Semi Hollow Short Scale Electric Bass w OCBC ~ 100% Original, VG+

1968 Gibson EB-2 Semi Hollow Short Scale Electric Bass w OCBC ~ 100% Original, VG+

Collingswood, New Jersey, 081**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$6500

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Gibson 1960 EB-0 Bass Guitar Cherry

Gibson 1960 EB-0 Bass Guitar Cherry

Rochester, New York, 146**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5999

Here we have a very historic bass guitar from Gibson, an EB-0 from 1960.
This is a double cut solid body guitar, featuring banjo-style tuners and a one pickup design. Condition-wise this piece is in great playing and sounding condition, and bears typical signs of wear and tear. Small dings, checking, and scratches can be seen on the surface, as well as more checking and wear up the neck (as seen). This will include a non original case.... more
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1964 Gibson EB-2 Bass Guitar with Hard Shell Vintage Flight Case

1964 Gibson EB-2 Bass Guitar with Hard Shell Vintage Flight Case

Chantilly, Virginia, 201**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5700

1964 Gibson EB-2 Bass with Hard Shell Vintage Flight Case.

The Gibson comes with a stellar silver and gold very early flight case you could ship it overseas in that thing and I wouldn't be afraid. It came from a very high end Collection and is in extremely good condition and will not find one in better shape. Plays and sounds amazing, has the stock bass boost switch that gets super deep tones and a very very cool bass!!!!  It is so clean you can eat off of it!!! Jimmy page... more
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Gibson Memphis ES Les Paul Bass, Gold Top, 4 string with Gibson OHSC

Gibson Memphis ES Les Paul Bass, Gold Top, 4 string with Gibson OHSC

Brentwood, Tennessee, 370**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5000

Gibson Memphis ES Les Paul Bass, Gold Top, 4 string w / OHSC
The Gibson ES-Les Paul is a stylish short-scale, semi-hollow bass with classic Les Paul-inspired looks, versatile humbucking pickups, and outstanding playing comfort from rounded ?C?? neck with rolled binding
Note from seller:
Extremely rare, Gibson Memphis ES Les Paul semi hollow Bass guitar, gold top. Soon to be a collectable ! This bass is in absolute mint / Like new condition. If you are looking for a rare, ... more
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Vintage 1913 Gibson Mando Bass Style J -Natural- For Repair & Restoration 1920s

Vintage 1913 Gibson Mando Bass Style J -Natural- For Repair & Restoration 1920's

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

$4950

This listing is for a rare and amazing Vintage Gibson Style J Mando Bass. To the best of my knowledge this bass was made in 1913 and these Style J Mando Basses were made in small quantities between 1912 throughout throughout the 1920's and 1930's. This one is not in great shape and will require some professional restoration but these are so rare it would be a great project for the right player or luthier to restore
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Gibson EB-1 Violin Bass Electric Bass w /  Original Case SN: 810964

Gibson EB-1 Violin Bass Electric Bass w / Original Case SN: 810964

Lafayette, Indiana, 479**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4899

HH139 Vintage Gibson EB-1 Violin Bass Electric Bass w / Original Case SN: 810964. Please be aware that the guitar has some spots where there's extra holes in the body crazing crackling on the Finish and some of the Gibson and the crown have come off over time. Guitar may need some work handle on case one side has popped off also exterior case has some peel up of the black around the edging as well as one strip down the neck. Please see pictures ask any questions you may have before buying. If ... more
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Vintage 1961, Original Style Gibson EB-0 Bass, Cherry Red, GREAT PRICE

Vintage 1961, Original Style Gibson EB-0 Bass, Cherry Red, GREAT PRICE

Agoura Hills, California, 913**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4750

A reasonably priced, 1961 Cherry Red EB-0 Bass. Very nice Condition
No cracks or damage
The Cherry Red finish has faded on the front, but it has a very nice vibe and patina 1961 is the last of the Thicker Double-Cutaway body style before Gibson introduced the SG style bodies The bass plays very nicely and has just been setup with Brand New D'Addario Short scale Round wound strings
This bass is original except the Pots have been replaced.
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1970s Gibson Studio Bass

1970s Gibson Studio Bass

Oceanside, California, 920**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4600

Redone by richie guitar repair in carlsbad.
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1978 Gibson RD Artist "NATURAL BLONDE" Electric (MOOG) Bass + OHSC

1978 Gibson RD Artist "NATURAL BLONDE" Electric (MOOG) Bass + OHSC

San Jose, California, 951**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4000

1978 Gibson RD Artist Bass Guitar + Original Gibson Hardshell Case
" NATURAL BLONDE" FINISH
GIBSON NORLIN-ERA
Original MOOG ELECTRONICS
Made in USA (Kalamazoo Plant, MI)
Production # 102 (April 17th release)
Adult owned only. Children-free, Pet-free household. Kept inside case when not used

Up for sale is a BEAUTIFUL LATE-70's Gibson Bass Guitar (RD ARTIST)
EXCELLENT overall vintage condition. Standard surface scratches, light dings, marks on front / back body / ... more
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1965 Gibson EB-3 - 100% Original - Straight Neck - Low Action - Great Player!

1965 Gibson EB-3 - 100% Original - Straight Neck - Low Action - Great Player!

Dayton, Ohio, 454**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4000

For your consideration is this 1965 Gibson EB-3 in a Transparent Cherry finish. Overall the guitar is in very good shape with only light to moderate play wear. 100% Original! The original pickups deliver excellent sound across all playing styles, truly capturing the iconic tones of your favorite players. Playability is excellent with low action & no fret wear. Mute is in case. Straight neck, low action, moved thumb rest (much more usable)
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1980 Gibson RD Artist Bass Sunburst

1980 Gibson RD Artist Bass Sunburst

Antioch, Tennessee, 370**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3999

Very good condition 1980 Gibson RD Artist Bass. All original, outside of the removal of the Moog electronics. Original pickups sound MASSIVE and have tons of low end on tap. Really a special bass from Gibson that was not made that long. Original sunburst finish looks great on this specific bass. Some signs of play as pictured, but nothing crazy. All electronics have been tested to be working perfectly. Recently set up as well. Kept in a smoke free, pet free studio for recording purposes. Comes ... more
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Vintage Gibson EB-1 Walnut Brown 1970

Vintage Gibson EB-1 Walnut Brown 1970

Brookfield, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3999


Vintage Gibson EB-1 Walnut Brown 1970
PLEASE CONTACT US WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR FOR AN IN-HAND DESCRIPTION
Based on an earlier design, this gorgeous reissue from '70 retains most of the original 50's look, including the ultra cool violin-shaped body. Exquisite tone with a smooth, comfortable feel. Professionally set up & ready to play straight out of the case
Cosmetic Condition: Various nicks, chips, dents & dings; scratches, weather checking & some finish wear. ... more
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1968 Gibson EB-0 Bass Rare Slotted Head w / Original Case (EXC ) Stunning!!

1968 Gibson EB-0 Bass Rare Slotted Head w / Original Case (EXC ) Stunning!!

Racine, Wisconsin, 534**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3995

1968 Gibson EB-0 Bass w / Original Case (EXC ) Stunning!!. Slotted headstock with original Gibson tuners!! Perfect for the collector!! This bass is in exceptional condition and so is the original case!! You will not find one in better condition!! Simply amazing!! Has new strings and comes with a beautiful vintage ??Made in Mexico?? leather strap!! Everything 100% original!! Thanks for looking!!
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Gibson Victory Artist Bass 81

Gibson Victory Artist Bass 81'

Blackfoot, Idaho, 832**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3800

This a killer bass and a total P bass killer. Gibson released these to compete with the p bass and they are far, far, better quality. Mahogany body, Mable neck, brass nut, active and passive humbuckers with MOOG electronics! All original with the original case. The original case is pretty beat up with a buckle replaced but still road Worthy. Original paperwork still with it. The guitar is set up to play easy with a low action and great sound. One bridge saddle is missing the riser but works ... more
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Gibson L9S RIPPER 1976 Electric Guitar USA Vintage Rare Maple with Hard Case

Gibson L9S RIPPER 1976 Electric Guitar USA Vintage Rare Maple with Hard Case

Chesterfield, Virginia, 238**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3800

I bought this guitar around 1982. I played it in the high school marching band. It is a marvelous instrument that has always deserved a better player than myself. That being said, my only consolation in letting it go is that whoever owns it next plays the hell out it. They didn't call this model the Ripper for nothing and rock stars have long sought after this model built during this time. It sounds beautiful and it is painful for me to sell it. But I don't play it often and my home air ... more
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