ADRIAN GOLDENTHAL

I am a native of the Phoenix area. My father is a seasoned local jazz pianist, my mother studied operatic voice, and my older brother has been playing drums since he was in diapers, so I have always been surrounded by music. Despite these early influences, however, I did not take to playing music until much later in life. During my high school years, I developed an interest in jazz, avidly listening to artists such as John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Charlie Parker. Also during this time, I discovered Jaco Pastorius – arguably the greatest and most influential electric bassist ever. Although I was given my first bass at 13, it was not until finding these influences that I began playing actively. I dabbled with jazz combos throughout my tenure at the fine Tempe institution [sarcasm] known as Arizona State University, where I met band mates Dan and Gannon while pursuing a Psychology degree (slightly less worthless than a music degree – plus I will never be able to read music). I also began exploring more varied musical realms and have since played with bands ranging from funk, rock and latin to hip-hop, electronic, and experimental. My former bands include The Robies, Green Rosetta, Searching for Corey Fogel, and The Hammertoes. I also currently perform with an improv/experimental project called Shh…The Baby’s Sleeping, along with fellow Badshoe member Gannon on Drums, and I occasionally find time to sit in on my dad’s gigs. I have a particular love for Brazilian music as well, which I perform from time to time with various groups. I love having the opportunity to play with all of these projects, although Badshoe is definitely my meat and potatoes. Actually, Dan is the meat, Gannon is the potatoes, and Ben is a nice medium-bodied cabernet blend with hints of tobacco and huckleberries and a long, silky finish.