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Ben Bernstein: News

Introducing: Petting Zoo Records, Ian Franklin “Breaking Grounds”, Kickstarter, etc... - April 5, 2012

On the Record, In the Studio, On the Stage

Here we go folks!  I am happy to announce the arrival of (drum roll please.... ok, the drummer overslept and missed the session):

Petting Zoo Records!!!

(rancorous applause)

You heard it here first, I have started a record label to support the music and artists I have been fortunate enough to work with here at the Petting Zoo.  For our first release we’ve selected Ian Franklin as our inaugural artist.  His debut full length album “Breaking Grounds” will be released this June on Petting Zoo Records (PZR).

Breaking Grounds Cover
We’ll be posting more information and some tasty sound bites about this soon.  In the meantime, please check out our facebook page and “Like” us.  This way you’ll get all the latest PZR news as it develops.

Kickstarter

But wait, Ian needs help finishing this project.  P lease take a moment to check out his Kickstarter campaign.  If you feel moved by his music and story, please consider even the most modest contribution.  Remember, a dime for Ian is a vote for Petting Zoo!

Studio News

I've been working on a number of projects at the Petting Zoo this winter and spring.  Besides Ian putting the finishing touches on his record, The Courtney Janes, a folk duo from Marin County, have been in the studio recording their second release “The Long Season”.  I like to think of their sound as Simon and Garfunkle meets bluegrass, but for this album, they’re going a little more Rock n’ roll, and a bit more Jazzy.  They’ve recorded a great batch of songs live with drums and bass (including yours truly on upright for a couple tunes) in the same room, imagine that!  Sure, there will be a few overdubs here and there to enhance the overall sound, but for the most part, what you’ll here is what the band played!

And yours truly has been back at it, working on my next batch of songs between sessions.  I’ll bve overdubbing some guitar and bass parts later in April, and hope to have a 5 song EP ready by summer.

KFOG Playspace                                  KFOG

Outiside of the Petting Zoo, I've been recording and mixing some artists you may, or may not have heard of, yet in the KFOG Playspace.  Most recently I was forunate to record and mix the very talented Lana Del Rey.  If you haven’t check out her hauntingly sultry mu sings yet, get to it.  Her vocal and lyrical style is both fresh and familiar, and quite evocative.

Later this month I’ll be in the playspace recording reggae pop legend Jimmy Cliff, Suzanne Vega, and in May, Edward Sharpe.

Thanks to Chuck Smith, Andrew Stern, and the whole KFOG crew for making things happen!

BEN ON STAGE

OK, I've got 1 performance this month, so if I'm in your zip code, get your arse out there!

4/9
The Deciders

Amnesia

9pm

Free!!!


I'll be playing bass with this Bay Area Bluegrass outfit as they reunite for a brief tour of the SF mission.

853 Valencia St. Between 19th & 20th, San Francisco

ABOUT PETTING ZOO RECORDS

(PZR) is a small independent label based in Oakland, CA, that releases recordings from Petting Zoo Studio and Producer Ben Bernstein. In addition to conventional CD releases, PZR focuses on high quality, small batch vinyl, and digital download-only releases reducing our sonic "footprint" on the earth.  Call it, "Farm to Fan" Music!


Happy Holidaze!!! - December 4, 2011

In the Studio, On the Stage

Howdy Ho!  It’s that time again, that’s right, the latest installment of my goings on.  And yes, it’s December, which means too much to eat, drink, and way too much cheezy holiday music.

So, to cure your Christmas Blues, Hanukah Hangover, or Kwanz-ever the heck you celebrate, or not for you Atheists, I’m going to tell you about some quality music I’ve been producing in my Elven workshop.  Better yet, I’ll let you know where and when my pointy eared crew will be popping up for some musical holiday cheer in a music venue near you...

Studio News

Juke Joint Jonny has been picked up by Blues Leaf Records.  They’ll be releasing “Pure & Simple” early 2012.  It’s currently being mastered at Baxter’s Ranch.

Ian Franklin is still hard at work on his debut "Breaking Grounds" release.  This month we’re tracking vocals and putting the finishing touches on the guitars.

We’ve been working on my next full length record, "The Great Unease".  Several sessions have ensued, and we have a few songs down, just 8 more to go...

KFOG Playspace

Outiside of the Petting Zoo, I've been recording and mixing some artists you may, or may not have heard of, yet in the KFOG Playspace.  In November I recorded The Fray, Blind Pilot (these guys are great), and Snow Patrol.  Here’s a video of Snow Patrol Performing “Chasing Cars

Be sure to check out the credits at the end!

Special kudos to Chuck Smith, Andrew Stern, and the whole KFOG crew for making things happen!

BEN ON STAGE

OK, I've got some performances this month, so if I'm in your zip code, come and say, "Howdy Ho!"

12/8, This Thursday!

Ho-ho-Hobo Paradise

Cafe Van Kleefe

1621 Telegraph Ave.

Oakland, CA

(510) 763-7711

 

 9PM

Funky rag-time-dixie-jazz-train-jumpin’-music.  No “Silent Night, here.

Sunday, December 11th, 2011

Hobo Paradise

Temple Beth Abraham

327 Macarthur Blvd

Oakland, CA

4 - 8 PM
Fun for the whole family!

 

November News from Ben Bernstein Music and Petting Zoo Studio!! - November 4, 2011

In the Studio, On the Stage

Hiya, how ya' doin'? Been a long time, you say?  Well, I been busy.  Too busy too call?  Ya', busy.

So I decided to write this letter, ok, newsletter, same thing, to update you wonderful people to my doings of late...

Studio News

I've been working on a number of projects at the Petting Zoo this fall, including an old school acoustic blues record for Juke Joint Jonny.  This collection of 10 original songs features some great bay area musicians including Mitch Woods on Piano, Steve Lucky on Organ, and Rustee Allen of Sly and the Family Stone on bass. 

Also in the studio, Ian Franklin is hard at work on his debut "Breaking Grounds" release.  This will be the first official release on Petting Zoo Records this spring.  Ian is also embarking on a college radio campaign for his "Step by Step" release in the coming weeks, so call your favorite college station and ask them to play his music!

And yours truly has been working on my next full length, currently titled "The Great Unease".  It will feature a batch of new tunes and some of my best musical friends joining me.  Stay tuned for a sneak peak in the coming months.

KFOG Playspace

Outiside of the Petting Zoo, I've been recording and mixing some artists you may, or may not have heard of, yet in the KFOG Playspace.  Most notably Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mack, Ziggy Marley, Fitz and the Tantrums, and Foster the People which I mixed live to air (that's 1,000,000 watts of power!!!).  Check out the video here: http://vimeo.com/30648222

Be sure to check out the credits at the end!

Special kudos to Chuck Smith, Andrew Stern, Matt Boudreau, and the whole KFOG crew for making things happen!

BEN ON STAGE

OK, I've got some performances this month, so if I'm in your zip code, come and say, "Hello"

11/4, Tonight!

The Courtney Janes

Hopmonk Tavern


9pm
691 Broadway
Sonoma California 95476
US (707) 935-9100 [map]

I'll be playing bass with these fresh Marin Folk heros.

Saturday, November 5th, 2011


The Courtney Janes

Lagunitas Brewing Co


3pm-6pm
1280 N McDowell Blvd
Petaluma California 94954
US [map]


Thursday, November 10

Hobo Paradise

Cafe Van Kleef
9pm - 12pm
1621 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA

BB on Bass


Sunday, November 13

Actual Cafe
laptop-free weekends


5pm – 8pm
Live Music: Second Sunday's Songwriter's Collective



Actual Cafe (map)
Ben Bernstein and John Howland performing. Hosted by: Deborah Crooks

I'll be playing new songs from my upcoming album solo and with a small band of musical pirates, yar!
more details»  copy to my calendar

Saturday November 19  

JL Stiles
Sam's Chowder House
5:00 PM
4210 Cabrillo Hwy N
Half Moon Bay, CA, 94019, US

Again, on Bass, oy!  Can you say, "Chowda?"


April News from Ben Bernstein Music and Petting Zoo Studio!! - April 1, 2011

In the Studio, On the Stage

Studio News

So much for April showers, I had my fill in March.  I've got a bunch of new tracks uploaded to my website that showcase the music I've been telling you about over the last year.  Follow the link below to the sounds page:

http://www.benbernsteinmusic.com/music-group-19.html

You can also listen via the groovy flash player at the top of the page.

Artist News

Belle and the Boys have finished their 2nd full length CD.  "Long Lonesome Day will be released on April 2nd, 2011 at Cafe Du Nord in San Francisco. 

Ian Frankiln

Singer/songwriter Ian Franklin is proud to announce the release of his debut 6-song EP, Step by Step, on May 12, 2011. In addition, two CD release parties have been scheduled; Sunday, April 10, 2011, 7:30 p.m., at Aubergine After Dark in Sebastopol, where fans can purchase advance copies of Step by Step, and Thursday, May 12, 2011, 8:00 p.m., at San Francisco’s Red Devil Lounge.

Which Reminds me...

BEN ON STAGE


I've got 4 performances this month!

4/2, This Saturday!

Ian Franklin Band
When:  2:00 PM
Where: Bay Street, 5616 Bay St, Emeryville, CA, 94608
Details: Free Outdoor Concert.  Featuring: Ben Bernstein-Bass, Paul Spina-Drums, Chris Pappada-Guitar/BackingVox, Mayu Kawata-Backing Vox

4/10

Ian Franklin EP Release Party!
When:  7:00 PM
Where: Aubergine After Dark, 755 Petaluma Ave, Sebastapol, CA, 95472
Featuring: Ben Bernstein-Bass, Paul Spina-Drums, Chris Pappada-Guitar/Backing Vox, Mayu Kawata-Backing Vox, Sky Nelson-Keys

4/16

Hobo's Paradise
3rd Annual Beer Blossom Festival
When:  1:00 PM
Where: Hopmonk Tavern,
691 Broadway

Sonoma, CA 95476
Details: A day & nighttime festivity filled with wild circus attractions, live barn yard music & of course... fresh micro beer!! Free!!!

4/30

Ian Franklin Band
When:  2:00 PM
Where: Bay Street, 5616 Bay St, Emeryville, CA, 94608
Details: Free Outdoor Concert. Kevin Beadles performs at 2pm!  He is an awesome songwriter and performer.  Don't miss it :-) IFB take the stage at 2:45pm.  We will be performing a tasty full band acoustic set for you all.


Now strap on your dancing shoes and get out and her some live music!!!


March News from Ben Bernstein Music & Petting Zoo Studio!! - March 2, 2011

In the Studio, On the Stage

Fantastic Photo 

Studio News

Well, it's March again, my favorite month.  And not just because it's my birthday on the 7th.  March means spring, sunshine, new beginnings, and if you are in California, rain!!!  March also means I'll be getting out and playing bass onstage with some local talent.  See details below...

February was notable in the studio as my good friend Hyim and I visited the legendary Fantasy Studios for a day of Piano overdubs.  We were situated in Studio D, and Hyim played the "Bill Evans" piano, that the late great jazz pianist himself hand picked for the studio.  What can I say but that everything about this studio is truly fantastic.  Maybe they should change the name to Fantastic Studios?

Artist News


Belle Monroe and Her Brewglass Boys - Belle and the Boys have finished their 2nd full length CD.  "Long Lonesome Day has gone to print and will be released on April 2nd, 2011 at Cafe Du Nord in San Francisco. 

Ryan Mintz - Ryan returned to the studio to resume work on his much anticipated "Love Letter" CD. 

Kevin Beadles - West Coast Songwriters member Kevin Beadles stopped in to track his song "Love Addiction".  Kevin was a "Best Performer" at the Berkeley WCS competition, which is sponsored by the studio.  I played bass, my assistant Dan hopped on drums, and Steve Gibson of Bandworks stopped by to add some guitar flavor.

Jonathan Twena - Jonathan Twena also dropped by to track 2 acoustic versions of his songs.  We look forward to working on a full length project with Jonathon

BEN ON STAGE


I've got two performances this month.

3/4/11, This Friday!

Hobo Paradise San Francisco debut

Get out your knapsacks and thumb it on down to Savannah Jazz for a raucous evening of Ragtime and Dixie with Hobo Paradise

Imagine stepping back in time to the 1920's when ragtime-based traditional jazz was the thing, fresh and original, rollicking, funny, tragic and, in essence, a party waiting to happen, and you got Hobo Paradise, a super band of the Bay Area's finest horn players and rhythm section.

8:00pm - 11:30pm
Savanna Jazz
2937 Mission St
San Francisco, CA

3/19/11
Belle Monroe and Her Brewglass Boys
Sugarbowl Ski Resort

Strap your skis or boards onto the car and head to the mountains for some snow play and bluegrass with Belle and the Boys!  I'll be filling in on Dog House Bass.
  We play in the Judah Lodge from 2-5PM on Saturday afternoon.  Bring the kids!

That's all for now Folks!!!

February News from Ben Bernstein Music and Petting Zoo Studio!! - February 1, 2011

In the Studio

Trident
W
ow!  Where did January go?  Let alone 2010... I know, I know, I spaced on my newsletter for 2 months.  But hey, I'm back, and I've been busy.

January brought some new faces to the studio, most notably Luis Malbas.  Luis is an extremely gifted songwriter from Sebastapol, CA.  He stopped by Spliggityfidge and knocked out an 11 song album in 5 days.  We put in some serious overtime indeed, and it still needs some mixin', but nobody does records this fast anymore.  I'm callin' Guiness!  Lord knows I could use one or two!

We had some special guests on the sessions, including Dave Shul from Spearhead on Lead Guitar, Pete Maloney from Tonic and Dishwalla on Drums, and my good friends John Howland & Mike Stevens on Pedal/Lap Steel and Percussion.  Also on the sessions were Tatiana Ecoiffer on Viola, Doug Ellington on Trumpet, that's right Ell-ing-ton (as in Duke), & last but not least, Adam Roszkiewicz on Mandolin.  I even got to play glockenspiel on a little song called "Star in the Sky". 

Most Notably, Luis' old buddy Rob Anderson flew in from Moscow and brought a nice collection of basses to play, including a vintage fretless Jazz bass and a wicked good Rickenbacker bass for some serious 70's super tone. 

In other News, we upgraded to ProTools 9, as well as Windows 7 Ultimate at the studio.  I know windows stinks, but it beats Vista!  The new sytem has been runnin' smooth all year. 

Even better, our Otari 2" 16 track Analog [an-l-awg, -og] recorder is up and running.  Thanks to Josh Roberts for making this happen and showing a new dog some old tricks.  Book an old school [an-l-awg, -og] session, if you can find some tape!


Artist News

Belle Monroe and Her Brewglass Boys - Belle and the Boys are at Spligittyfidge this month wrapping up mixing.  It will then be mastered by Michael Romanowski.  They'll be officially releasing the CD April 2nd, 2011 at Cafe Du Nord.

Ian Franklin - Ian finished mixing his EP in January.  It has been mastered by Mike Wells and will be officially released in April.  Can't wait to get a copy!

JL Stiles - JL dropped in the studio last week and again this week to work on another epic track entitled "Movin'"  Drums were originally tracked at Tiny Telephone, but JL brought it in to layer vocal overdubs, acoustic & electric guitar, and a kalimba.  To get the kalimba effect I used an AIR Xpand2 patch called "Flintstones Boneaphone" and mixed it with with a sampler instrument I built with a janky Kalimba we found floating around the studio.  The Kalmiba samples gave the synth patch a nice metallic edge.  Towards the end of the session I convinced JL to let me throw down some bass on the Bridge to make it rock.  Needless to say, this achieved the desired effect...

Ben on Stage

Ben has not been onstage in awhile.  But, do not fret, he  shall return in March.  Stay tuned bass face devotees...

Bass Face

November News from Ben Bernstein Music and Petting Zoo Studio!! - November 10, 2010

In the Studio, On the Stage

Ben at the Board

Studio News

Whew!  What a busy month October turned to be.  I spent two weeks in the studio without a break producing bluegrass, beats, and even some bongos.  All that and the Giants won the World Series for the first time in as long as anyone alive can remember.  I must say it was quite exciting following the game on my iPhone in studio.  At one point we even had the game streaming during a Belle Monroe session as they won the pennant.  After much celebrating we pulled it together to record a track, which even sounds like a party!

Check out this exclusive behind the scenes video:

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=444787772446&ref=mf

November is shaping up quite well.  Please read below for the details:

Artist News


Belle Monroe and Her Brewglass Boys - Belle and the Boys are back at Spligittyfidge this month tracking vocals and some overdubs.  We expect to finish mixing by the beginning of December.

Ian Franklin - We'll be mixing Ian's upcoming EP this month.  As well, we'll begin work on more songs to round out the EP into a full length CD.

Anthony Bello - Anthony has finished his debut EP.  Look for a December release.  He'll be back in late November to record older material for his archives.

Craig Zaretsky (Memory Canvas)
- Craig and I have begun pre-production on what he describes as "...a 70's throwback decadence album."   I'll dig out my 8-track...
 
On Stage
 
I'll be joining Kwame Copeland on Upright Bass for an acoustic set this Sunday November 14th at Actual Cafe in Oakland.  Also on the bill are Alex Walsh and Patrice Haan. 

When:  Sunday, November 14th at 4:00 PM - 6 PM
Who:  Kwame Copeland, Patrice Haan, Alex Walsh
Where:  The Actual Cafe 6334 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, CA
Cover?  Nope, but you can tip us if'n your feelin' it.

Roctober News from Ben Bernstein Music and Petting Zoo Studio!! - October 7, 2010

On the Road,

September was a busy month for me.  I kicked it off playing bass with Drew Emmitt in Boulder for 2 sold out nights at The Nomad Theatre.  The shows were electrifying and reminded me of why I love to play so much.  In addition, we helped raise some funds to help victims of the Four Mile Canyon fire, which was still burning just miles from where we were performing.

Hey, speaking of Bluegrass...

In the Studio,

Recording Belle Monroe & Her Brewglass Boys second album at Spligittyfidge

I've been more than busy in the studio working on Belle Monroe and her Brewglass Boys second album.  We spent a long weekend tracking basics at Spligittyfidge, my alter-ego studio, and subsequent overdub sessions.  Needless to say, everything went smoothly and the tones are fantastic.  That's Jordan Klein (Banjo) and Tom Drohan (Bass), two of the 'Boys', in the photo above.  Notice Tom has 2 basses, thus the term, double bass!

Artist News

Many other artists came through the studio last month...

Ian Franklin - Tracking continues on Ian's upcoming EP.  In September we recorded Vocals and Guitar Overdubs.  He'll be coming back in October to finish recording and mix.

Anthony Bello - Anthony and I have been hard at work finishing up his debut EP.  We'll be mixing next week.

JL Stiles - JL has been in the studio putting the finishing touches on a new single "Simple Faith".  We built this track around a vocal, recorded over a year ago.  It now features drums recorded & performed by Darius Minae in LA, Piano from Doug Ellington's Lama Box studio, and horns recorded at the Petting Zoo.  We'll finish mixing next week.


ON STAGE

We had a great time at the Starry Plough celebrating Kwame Copeland's "Simple Pleasures" CD release.  Initial response has been that the album sounds "very niiice".  Thanks to Kwame for letting me rip on the electric guitar!

That's all for now folks!  Have a great month, and don't eat too much candy!!!

September News from Ben Bernstein Music and Petting Zoo Studio!! - September 1, 2010

Spligittyfidge, Studio Special, Gigs & More

Studio News

Wow!  Where did your summer go?  I spent mine finishing a record, as well as starting several more projects with some of the Bay Area's finest independent songwriters.  Furthermore, I completed a stint working in Michael Winger's fabulous mixing suite at 1340 Mission

What does the fall bring?  BIG NEWS!  Starting September 1st, 2010 I'll be moving operations to a bigger recording studio in Emeryville.  The new space is called, get this, Spligittyfidge.  That's right, Spligittyfidge.  Go ahead say it.  Take a moment... now say it again Spli-gitty-fidge.  It's catchy, huh?

The studio, curated by Producer/Drummer Kevin Weber, spans two decades of recording and engineering, worlds of music, and has become ubiquitous on the SF music scene.  Names like Trident, Otari, Neumann, U Audio, AKG, Vox, Marshall, Mapex, and Zildjian compliment the gear list.  And did I mention the piano?!

Studio Special
What does this all mean?  Ben Bernstein Music now has more space, more gear, and most importantly, more possibilities.  To kick things off I am offering 15% off to anyone who books a day at Spligittyfidge in September. Email me for more information.


Artist News
Kwame Copeland "Simple Things" is done.  We finished mixing in late July at 1340 Mission.  The CD was promptly mastered by Mike Wells, and let me tell you, it's sounds fantastic.  It will be released September 23rd.  Details below...

Ryan Mintz "Love Letter"  Work continues on Ryan's second album.  We've spent much of the past month in the Petting Zoo and at 1340 recording his guitars and vocals.  In September we'll complete additional overdubs, with mixing anticipated in October.  Look for an early 2011 release.

Deborah Crooks LP version of "It's All Up to You." We finished 2 more tracks for Deborah's upcoming LP release of "It's All Up to You."  The new tracks include a tasty version of Neil Young's "Heart of Gold."

Ian Franklin was back in the Petting Zoo and at Splgittyfidge recording basics for his upcoming EP.  He'll be back in the studio in September recording additional overdubs and mixing for an anticipated October release.

This just in... I will be producing Belle Monroe & Her Brewglass Boys' sec
ond album.  A staple on the SF scene, Belle & the Boys have been laying it on the line for Bay Area Bluegrass lovers for over a decade.  I have a long-standing relationship with the band, frequently filling in on bass. Needless to say, I am thrilled at the opportunity to work with them in the studio.  Look for a late 2010 release.

And, speaking of Bluegrass...

BEN ON STAGE & ON THE ROAD
Drew Emmitt Band
Hey all you Colorado people, I'll be performing 2 nights in Boulder, CO on September 10 & 11 with Drew Emmitt at the Nomad Theatre.  Get your tickets now!

Kwame Copeland
Also, on September 23rd, I'll be performing with Kwame Copeland at his CD release party at the Starry Plough in Berkeley, CA.  I'll be on guitar for this one.


NEW EP FROM BEN BERNSTEIN
Ben Bernstein's long awaited follow up EP to his 2006 "Petting Zoo" release took a step forward in August.  Ben tracked guitar's and vocals at 1340 Mission, as well as spent some time co-writing with his long time collaborator and BBM artist Deborah Crooks.  We anticipate more progress on the EP in the coming months.

August News from the Petting Zoo!! - August 3, 2010

Studio News, Gigs, Studio Tip, & New Releases

August finds me working out of both 1340 Mission in San Francisco and the Petting Zoo in Oakland. 1340 is a great room. It has a great vibe, awesome pre's, compressors, mics, burlap,  and monitors.  As a whole, it is a perfect place to work and is a hot spot for SF recording (and did I mention the espresso machine?).

 

In July, we finished mixing Kwame Copeland’s “Simple Things” (mastered by Mike Wells) there, and we’re currently in 1340 tracking vocals for Ryan Mintz. Contact me and we’ll see if we can get you in.

Also in July, we tracked piano for JL Stiles’ "Simple Faith" at Doug Ellington's Lama Box studio.

August will find me working with new and returning artists, both at 1340 and The Petting Zoo:

  • Ryan Mintz will be tracking guitar and vocals for his 2nd album, "Love Letter"  
  • Ian Franklin will be recording four new songs for an upcoming EP at The Petting Zoo
  • Deborah Crooks will be @ 1340 completing tracks begun as part of the “It’s All Up to You” sessions.
  • The March West Coast Songwriters Best Performance winner Anthony Bellow will begin work on a new EP at Petting Zoo.



BASS INSTRUCTION  @ Blue Bear School of Music

I continue to offer bass lessons at Blue Bear on Monday afternoons/evenings. Contact the school if you'd like to schedule a lesson.

PERFORMANCE

I’m taking some time offstage for travel and fun this month, but looking ahead, September will find me both on the road and at home playing bass and guitar

  • 9/10 - 9/11 with The Drew Emmitt Band at the Nomad Theatre in Boulder, CO, on Bass
  • 9/23 with Kwame Copeland, “Simple Things” CD release party at The Starry Plough  in Berkeley, CA, on Acoustic Guitar.



CLIENT NEWS, REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS

Ben did a GREAT job! thanks man!” — Ian Franklin Wilkerson HearBaby I Got Your Fix,” by Ian Franklin


Check the artist interview I did for Deborah Crooks’ Bird in the Tree Blog Spot.

Another review for Deborah Crooks' Ep It's All Up to You ( 2010) on ZME Music :“...what [Izzy] Stradlin’s record shares with “It’s All Up To You” is an easy, summer road-trip, I’ve-listened-to-a-lot-of-Rolling-Stones-and-I’m-not-afraid-to-show-it kind of vibe.”

Studio Tip #1

Never Forgot your iLok!!!  
While completing mixing for Kwame Copeland’s “Simple Things” at 1340 Mission I made the notorious mistake of forgetting my iLok at home.  I made it all the way to SF from Oakland and didn’t realize it was missing until I fired up a session and Pro Tools just stared at me blankly, wondering where the Waves Plug-in authorizations might be.  Low and behold, I dashed out the door and caught a BART train back to the Petting Zoo while Kwame happily perused the local guitar shop.  I made it back in 1 Hr 15 min. flat.  Walking into the coffee shop to meet Kwame for the second time that day I had an overwhelming sense of Deja Vu.  It would all have been perfect if he’d been sitting at the same table.

July News from the Petting Zoo Studio - July 7, 2010

Studio News, Gigs, & Press

Welcome to the July edition of Petting Zoo News. After a run of shows playing bass with Drew Emmitt, much of June was taken up with recording sessions for Ryan Mintz's upcoming release "Love Letters." This concept album will feature 11 songs about, you guessed it, love. We'll be completing overdubs in July and mixing in August before I get back on the road with Drew for a few dates in Colorado.

Amid the "Love Letters" sessions, Ian Franklin revisited the studio, this time in the guise of his acoustic hip hop duo "Cop the Idiom."

We're also putting the finishing touches on Kwame Copeland's "Simple Things." All said, stay tuned for a round of CD release notices later this summer.

SAN FRANCISCO SESSIONS
I'll be moving Petting Zoo operations over to producer/engineer Michael Winger's studio for a month of sessions at the esteemed 1340 Mission music facilities in late July. It's one of the Bay Area's more vital recording collectives, and this is an awesome opportunity to work there. Email me soon if you'd like to book your next session @ 1340.

BASS INSTRUCTION @ Blue Bear School of Music
I continue to offer Beginning Bass classes and one-on-one-lessons at Blue Bear School of Music in San Francisco. Contact the school if you'd like to schedule a lesson. Graduates of Beginning Bass and intermediate players can now take my Bass II Class, Monday evenings throughout the summer, to continue to build skills and learn new bass lines. Classes start June 12th!!

Blue Bear School of Music
415.673.3600

CLIENT NEWS & REVIEWS

More positive reviews are coming in for Deborah Crooks' Ep "It's All Up to You" (co-produced by Ben Bernstein, 2010). "Deborah Crooks makes the case for a return to the roots of rock in her latest record...It's All Up To You separates itself from the mainstream country pack and moves in a whole variety of unexpected directions." -- Consequence of Sound, June 21, 2010

HYIM's "Sex in the Morning" is now being distributed by Best Buy, both online and in stores througout California. "...hints of samba, reggae, and funk, and unexpectedly witty lyrics..." -- East Bay Express, 2009

June News from the Petting Zoo - June 8, 2010

Studio News, Gigs & Press

Welcome to the June edition of Petting Zoo News.  There's lots going on around the 'Zoo these days.  First and foremost I just returned from a brief tour with the Drew Emmitt Band.  We had a good run through Appalachia, hitting two Festivals and two clubs along the way. Needless to say, I had a blast!


STUDIO NEWS


We've had a steady stream of artists flowing through the 'Zoo lately.  In May, Ian Franklin completed two singles, "Baby I Got Your Fix" and "Don't Do Me Like That."  Look for those to be released later this summer.

Also, Billy Shafer stopped by to record "State of Mine," a single for his upcoming full-length debut CD to be released this fall.

In addition, we've had Season of Us, a wonderful Flute and Guitar duo, in to record a Jazz CD of standards, and Alex Walsh came in to record his next hit "I'm Great" with our old friend Zachary Morris on Drums.

In June, I'll be mostly busy recording Ryan Mintz's next full length record. 
Please visit his website to make a donation if you'd like to help him realize his next musical dream.  We start production today!

May News from the Petting Zoo - May 4, 2010

Studio News, Upcoming Gigs, Press and the 

Aerial   Petting Zoo

May Special

PRODUCTION NEWS
As the old saying goes, March came in like a lamb and out like a lion, and April showers bring May flowers.  The studio continues to hop like a spring rabbit with new and ongoing projects. April saw completion on several singles and EPs that you can listen to now online and purchase directly from the artists:

  • Green Musician Ryan Mintz completed his new single "Welcome Home" and has taken it on the road.  Check out the video of Ryan Recording his song at the Petting Zoo.  That's Mike Stevens on Drums, and your's truly working the mix.  Nice Tats Mike!
  • Memory Canvas completed mixes of their new EP. Check them out on Myspace.
  • Ian Franklin Wilkerson was in last month for  "Don't Do Me Like That" and "Baby I Got Your Fix".  
  • Billy Shafer tracked basics and overdubs for "State of Mine" which will complete his first full length CD, scheduled for a release this Fall.
  • In May, Alex Walsh returns to the Petting Zoo to record the single "I'm Great."
  • And finally, we're completing mixing and putting the finishing touches on Kwame Copeland's debut release, "Simple Things".

Ryan   ponders the boot

 

MAY STUDIO SPECIAL

Petting Zoo Studio May special: Book three days at the Zoo for $500. We're booking for the next three months and would love to have you in the studio.

Plus I've added some new gear including a UA 610M, Chameleon Labs 7602 Preamp and Chameleon Labs 7802 Stereo Opto Tube Compressor. 

SESSION WORK
Give me a shout if you need a bass player for live and studio sessions. In April, I recorded bass for a Star Stern EP, as well as on Ryan Mintz's "Welcome Home,"  Ian Franklin Wilkerson's "Don't Do Me Like That" and "Baby I Got Your Fix", and on Billy Shafer's "State of Mine."

BASS INSTRUCTION AT
Blue Bear School of Music Blue Bear Live V

I'm continuing to teach Beginning Bass Class and one-one-lessons at Blue Bear School of Music in San Francisco. Contact the school if you'd like to schedule a lesson.  Heads up for the Blue Bear Live V Benefit May 14 at Bimbo's with Trombone Shorty.  This should be a great show! Blue Bear School of Music presents Blue Bear Live V, Fri 5/14, Doors: 7pm/Show: 8pm

BEN BERNSTEIN LIVE

Speaking of more fun shows, I'm playing with JL Stiles band at the next installment of the San Folk Disco ,Thursday May 27th opening for The Eric McFadden Trio at Cafe Du Nord. Mark your calendar and buy your tickets!

PRESS: 'Student Success Story' on Pyramind.com.

April News from the Petting Zoo - April 1, 2010

Studio News and Spring Special

 New projects, artists and classes
It's been a busy month at The Petting Zoo, wrapping up the mixes for Memory Canvas's EP that were started earlier in the year.  Memory Canvas is an electro-folk duo combining classic song structure and guitar work with haunting lead vocals and harmonies.
  Check 'em out!

I recently worked with two new-to-the-studio artists, songwriters Ian Franklin Wilkerson and Ryan Mintz. Ian, a Berklee Music grad with some great jazz and funk cred to his name, tracked two singles in March which we'll be mixing later this month. Ryan tracked an acoustic version of the song "Welcome Home" for a film in March.  He'll be stopping by the Petting Zoo in April to produce a full band arrangement of the tune.  You may know Ryan as the artist behind The Green Musician
 
APRIL RECORDING SPECIAL!

Through the month of April, we're offering Artists the opportunity to record at The Petting Zoo at a reduced rate. New clients will receive 20% off a day of recording. Write or call the studio for more information.

BEN BERNSTEIN MUSIC
In March, I continued work on my next collection of original material,  tracking drums at Broken Radio with drummer Mike Stevens behind the kit. Thanks to Matt Boudreau for having us in the studio as part of his Advanced Audio Concepts course taught through Pyramind.

 Blue  Bear  Logo

BASS INSTRUCTION AT Blue Bear School of Music

I'm teaching three new bass workshops on Monday evenings at Blue Bear School of Music in San Francisco. Contact the school if you'd like to enroll in either Beginning Bass, Classic Rock Bass Lines, or Music Theory for Bass.

I'll also be teaching a short seminar with Mike Stevens called "Bass & Drums: Locking in the Groove."  The course will be Monday, April 5, from 6:30 - 8:30pm.  Click here for more information or to sign up.

These courses supplement the private lessons I currently offer at Blue Bear on an ongoing basis.

LATEST RELEASE

We were extremely happy to welcome Noa Sara Bernstein  into the world last month. She was born March 17, 2010 and weighed 10lbs 2oz

For more information about the studio or to schedule a meeting with Ben Bernstein, please email captain@benbernsteinmusic.com; http://www.benbernsteinmusic.com/  Become a fan at www.facebook.com/

 


Ben Bernstein Music & Petting Zoo Studio March News - March 3, 2010

New Music, Great Reviews and Upcoming Releases from Ben Bernstein and Petting Zoo Studio

2010 at Petting Zoo Studio continues to be busy and productive. February's studio and live work has resulted in a slew of positive reviews and new releases this month. Petting Zoo Sumo

STUDIO NEWS

VOICE OVER

My work as Senior Engineer for voice over on the action game BioShock 2, the sequel to the critically acclaimed 2007 video game Bio Shock, is getting great reviews.  Bioshock 2  was recorded at Pyramind Studios in San Francisco.

Press for Bioshock 2:

"One of the best soundtracks I’ve heard in awhile. The voice acting is also top notch." - Game Informer

"With a well-paced, multifaceted story about father and daughter, BioShock 2 offers more real player choices, and succeeds at being thought provoking instead of simply wearing brainy trappings."Paste Magazine

Also at Pyramind, I served as engineer at a two-day voice over workshop for Bang Zoom! Entertainment, with leading voice actor Tony Oliver.  

MUSIC PRODUCTION & ENGINEERING

Memory Canvas

Memory Canvas, a project featuring members of Blue Rabbit, recently tracked a 3-song EP at Petting Zoo. In addition to engineering and mixing, I played bass on one of the tracks.

Deborah Crooks

I recently wrapped up work with Deborah Crooks on her latest release, a 7-song CD titled "It's All Up to You."  In early February we tracked two new songs live at Tiny Telephone and finished overdubs and mixing at The Petting Zoo. You can hear one of the tunes (on which I also played upright bass) from the February session "Grandma Mission Blues" on the Petting Zoo studio sampler (keep reading for more on the sampler). Shortly after wrapping up production, I also appeared with Deborah to discuss the production process at a special Macworld Studio Session.

BEN BERNSTEIN LIVE

The past month found me playing jazz as well as debuting my latest solo work at several gigs around the Bay Area. In early February, Hobo Paradise helped raise more than $1000 for Haiti earthquake relief at a hopping show “In the Name of Love” at the Red Devil Lounge. I also played upright bass in Eddie Gale's free jazz performance "This is For Sun Ra" at Flux 53 in Oakland.  In addition to Gale, the musical lineup included India Cooke whose violin playing was off the hook. Check her out. February also found me playing my latest songs at a solo acoustic show with Dana Carmel at Mojo Cafe in San Francisco.

STUDIO SPECIAL AND SAMPLER
Receive 20% off your first day of recording when you book a session at The Petting Zoo. Write me for studio rates and availability or to book an appointment to visit the studio.
Call or come by and I'll send or give you a Petting Zoo sampler CD. The Petting Zoo sampler features original tunes by artists who've completed work at the studio, including Bucky, Deborah Crooks, Emily Bonn, Hobo Paradise, Hyim, and Ben Bernstein.  You can also hear it streaming on my website

WEST COAST SONGWRITER'S COMPETITION
Beginning in March I'll be sponsoring the West Coast Songwriter's Berkeley Competition by providing studio time to the monthly winner in the "Best Performance" category.  The Lucky winner will receive 3 hours of recording time at the Petting Zoo.

LATEST RELEASE

In other news, the Bernstein family is expecting it's second child! I'll be taking a small break from live performances to tend to this new release. 

Follow me on Twitter to find out more!

Become a fan of Petting Zoo and leave a comment on thePZ Facebook fan page or join my email list and I'll send you a tune. Be sure to leave your email address.

February 2010: In the Studio and On the Stage - February 1, 2010

Studio Special

To encourage artists to complete projects I'm bundling many of my recording services into some great packages. Clients who book three days of studio time or three-song packages during the month of February will receive a 15% discount off the usual rate.  Sign up for several days of basic tracking or a 3-song deal and be well on your way to completing a new album.

 

Contact pettingzoostudio@gmail.com for more information.

 

New Gear:  We just installed a Universal Audio UAD-2 Neve Card.  Classic sound and more mixing power in the box.

Live!

We had a great time at the Ho'Down Quartet reunion in January.  Although Mike couldn't make it at the last minute, we still brought the house down with special guest Alisa Rose (49 Special/Homespun Rowdy) steppin' in on fiddle at the last minute.  We had the crowd begging for more...


This Wednesday February 3, 2010 I'll be playing at the Red Devil Lounge in Hobo Paradise on a bill that includes Hyim and JL Stiles to benefit Haiti.  As you recall, Hobo Paradise is a brand new Ragtime and early Jazz Outfit that we recorded an EP for at the Petting Zoo last month.



IN THE NAME OF LOVE
February 3, 2010
A benefit for the victims of the Haitian earthquake tragedy

featuring at Red Devil Lounge in San Francisco
HOBO PARADISE
HYIM
JL Stiles

Min Donation: $10
Sugg Donation: $20
Doors open @ 8pm

In the Studio

Bucky

We are finishing up the long anticipated debut release of Bay Area artist Bucky.  This project has spanned 2 years and we are putting the finishing touches on the mixes this week
Ben & studio engineer Scott McDowell having their vegan 'compcakes' during Deborah's sessionDeborah Crooks
We'll be back at Tiny Telephone finishing mixes for Deborah's new EP and tracking two new tracks for the future full-length release. (note Ben & studio engineer Scott McDowell breaking for some vegan 'compcakes' @ Tiny Telephone, left)

Kwame Copeland Ben had been busy mixing Kwame's upcoming release at the Petting Zoo.  
Ben Bernstein
Ben is also working on a new EP of new and unreleased material.  For this batch of songs, Ben is going for a more acoustic and esoteric sound than his previous work.  Stay tuned for more information and look for tracks on our website and Facebook page in the near future.

Follow BBM on Twitter. Need more info? Write me pettingzoostudio@gmail.com

& don't forget to fan the Zoo on Facebook.

Happy New Year from Ben Bernstein Music! - January 13, 2010

 Studio News and New Year Special

Petting Zoo Studio Announces Special New Year's Production Rate to Artists


The studio is celebrating the New Year by offering musicians a chance to record in his comfortable Oakland production space, The Petting Zoo, at a reduced rate. New clients will receive a $150/day rate, a savings of 25% off the regular cost. We're booking for the next three months, now, and would love to have you in the studio.


Production News
The new decade has already begun in full production mode with new and continuing projects:


Deborah Crooks

The first part of January found Ben overseeing overdubs at Petting Zoo and Tiny Telephone for Deborah Crooks who is recording a follow-up to 2008's Adding Water to the Ashes. Mixing at Tiny Telephone allowed us to get a vintage analog sound, making for the best of both recording standards. Ben also contributed upright bass and synth lines to the production.


Hobo Paradise

The studio is excited about a new ragtime project, Hobo Paradise, featuring Ben Bernstein, JL Stiles, Zachary Morris, Mike Rinta, Doug Ellington, and Ben Doitel. Hobo Jungle is recording a debut EP at Petting Zoo, The six-piece ensemble includes rhtyhm section and horns (arranged by Mike Rinta).  Ben recorded basic tracks at the Petting Zoo on his Tascam 388 8-track and took them over to Pro Tools for overdubs.  To achieve a classic sound he relied on 1 Ribbon mic strategically placed to capture the sound of everyone playing in the same room, and some additional spot mics when necessary.


Kwame Copeland

Ben is mixing Kwame's debut release "Back to You" at the Petting Zoo.  Basic Tracks were recorded in May 2009 at Pyramind Sound by Ben Bernstein.


Bass Instruction at Blue Bear School of Music


Ben is teaching bass on Mondays at Blue Bear School of Musi  c in San Francisco. Contact the school if you'd like to schedule a lesson.

Petting Zoo

New Studio! - November 16, 2009

The Petting Zoo has under gone a major face lift with new Brazilian Rosewood floors I rescued from a warehouse so no trees had to die. Also, there is now 50 sq. feet of additional music making space. Check out the photos on the Studio page.

To-Go Ware Documercial - January 26, 2009

My song "Puesta del Sol" has been licensed for a To-Go Ware Documercial. Follow the link to learn more about To-Go Ware and here the track.

http://vimeo.com/2470580

2009: What's Goin' On? - January 22, 2009

It's a new year, we have a new President, and I am into new things. First off, I am now teaching Pro Tools Certification courses at Pyramind Sound (www.pyramind.com). Secondly, I am engineering the next CD for Bay Area World Musician Hyim (www.hyimvibe.com). I recently mixed a teaser for a documentary about the global economic Crisis, and I have several gigs coming up.

Stay tuned and check the calendar and music pages for new dates and songs.

Cheers!

BB

Bay to Breakers Videos - May 28, 2008

On Sunday May 18th BB and Bucky Dub set up in GG Park and performed an improptu set for the freaks along Bay to Breakers. Check out the videos below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vkanmzgsu9k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pImGc5qlQoo

BB @ Starry Plough 6/6 - May 21, 2008

Ben Bernstein will perform at the Starry Plough in Berkeley, CA on June 6th with his band. Performing with him will be Bucky on Drums, and his former Ho' Down Quartet Band mates Jim Chomas and Jordan Klein, on Guitar and Banjo respectively. Ben and friends will be performing some of Jim's originals form his "Hard Willin'" CD, which Ben played bass on, as well as some of Ben's songs and some Ho' Down favorites. Also on the bill that night are The Porchsteps, and Culann's Hounds.

http://www.benbernsteinmusic.com/calendar.html

May 14, 2008

Hire me on eSession.com

BB in the studio - May 7, 2008

Ben Bernstein has been busy in the studio producing and mixing two projects. The first is the first full length release by San Francisco Singer/Songwriter Deborah Crooks. Ben has been working with Deborah for the past year on this CD that features many of the Bay Areas top musicians including Art Khu on Keys, Dave Tweedie on Drums, and of course, Ben Bernstein on Bass. The second project Ben has been hard at work on is mixing the debut release for Bucky Dub. Ben and Bucky have employed a multitude of Analog tricks and techniques to give this CD a truly old school vibe.

EAST BAY ARTIST BEN BERNSTEIN TO LEAD OFF NIGHT OF ACCLAIMED SONGWRITERS - October 30, 2007

Starry Plough Irish Pub hosts a night of original Americana and Indie Pop, November 10.

Berkeley musician Ben Bernstein is set to open a night of original
music presented by The Starry Plough, 3101 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA, 94705, November 10, 2007, at 9:30pm.

More widely known through his work as the former bassist for New
Monsoon, Ben Bernstein goes solo to play a set of his own Dylan-esque Acoustic Pop. The Berkeley resident will sing selections from his recent CD "Petting Zoo" (2007 Ben Bernstein Music) as well as other oddities that draw on his vast experience playing the spectrum of musical genres.

The night continues with Kate Burkart and friends. Burkart was a
founding member of The Bay Area's Famous Last Words, which disbanded last winter after nine years of touring and two critically lauded albums. As a solo performer, Burkart's Americana-inflected songs reflect the influence of Lucinda Williams, whose material she often
covers.

Newly transplanted to the Bay Area, the winner of the 2006 Penn State Singer-songwriter competition, Ben Ross will close out the night with his band. Plumbing the Indie Folk genre, Ross has already won over a
California following with his captivating songwriting and a
breathy-velvet vocal style.

November 10th, 2007, Ben Bernstein, Kate Burkart and Ben Ross at the
Starry Plough, 3101 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94705; (510) 841-2082.
Valid ID required for Entry, Tickets, $8 general admission, 21 andover.

For more information:

http://myspace.com/bbernstein
Ben Ross:
http://benrossmusic.com/ http://www.myspace.com/benrossmusic
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