Ever the innovator, and also working towards a truly travel-friendly bass, Paul Wargaski rolled out Beta Version 1 of his SuitBass at rehearsal last night.

Yes, that’s a vintage wooden suitcase complete with f-holes, a custom bridge, and a re-purposed neck from a dead bass in Paul’s shop.

I’ll let him add any other key details in the comments below, but I wanted to post this picture while it was still fresh.

And yes, the thing sounds freaking insane (i.e. definitely needs a better pickup/pre-/amplification solution than we had last night), but it sure is fun to look upon, and I have no doubt Paul will work out the kinks in due time.

Unless Congress acts, thousands of internet radio stations will go offline this weekend. If you haven’t already contacted your Senators and Congressperson, please take a few moments to do so. For more information, please visit SaveNetRadio.org.

My Chicago Tribune op-ed on internet radio was quoted in the Idaho Statesman this morning. You can read the article here:

http://www.idahostatesman.com/deeds/story/105927.html

Update:
It looks like internet radio may have a temporary stay of execution. From Wired Magazine, via SaveNetRadio.org:

A coalition of webcasters have worked out a deal with the recording industry that could temporarily stave off a portion of crippling net radio royalties set to take effect Sunday, according to people familiar with the negotiations.

The deal is not final but creates a window for webcasters to continue broadcasting while a more lasting solution is sought. Webcasters have said the fees would effectively force many services that personalize individual channels for listeners to close shop by the end of the weekend.

Read the full article at wired.com