Walking The Beast
“I PULLED OUT MY 1968 TELE WITH RONNIE, AND PLUGGED IT INTO MY AMPEG SVT, AND JUST LET IT RIP. HE SAID, ‘THAT’S IT! PUT ALL OF THOSE OTHER BASSES AWAY’”
Listening to the two latest high-profile releases that feature the bass playing of Ricky Phillips, one thing becomes immediately apparent: Together, they represent a testament to his versatility. Whether he’s blazing trails through the 70s-inspired prog rock concept album that is Styx’s 2017 release , or laying down thunderous grooves on the equally retro, guitar-driven riff rock of Ronnie Montrose’s , Phillips is clearly comfortable navigating both musical realms. And while his tone may change between the two projects, the style is clearly, and uniquely, all his own.
