Derek Jones is the bassist for Cirque du Soleil’s show KÀ. He joined Cirque after spending time playing with Chris Thile and Nickel Creek and then with Jerry Douglas, and he has played over 5,200 performances of this show at this point. We dig into topics like: challenges of dealing with the low humidity in Las Vegas Derek's unexpected chance to see Gary Karr play live in Las Vegas recently his 12 1/2 years on the Cirque show why it’s better to cut frequencies than boost growing up in the Bay Area and getting his break on the salsa music scene the decision to move to Nashville the three ways to experience a culture (language, food, music) ...and much more! You can get Derek's albums Run With Me and Dusk 'til Dawn in hi res audio from Blue Coast Records! Thanks to our sponsors! This episode is brought to you by D’Addario Strings! Check out their Kaplan strings, which have versatility and control throughout the dynamic spectrum, rich tonal color palette, superb bow response, and beautiful balance. Enter our latest string giveaway for Kaplan strings at contrabassconversations.com/strings! Thank you also to the Bass Violin Shop, which  offers the Southeast's largest inventory of laminate, hybrid and carved double basses. Whether you are in search of the best entry-level laminate, or a fine pedigree instrument, there is always a unique selection ready for you to try. Trade-ins and consignments welcome!   Subscribe to the podcast to get these interviews delivered to you automatically!