| ‘Benergy’ – The Debut Solo LP from Big D and the Kids Table Bassist Ben Basile Drops May 2nd Stream the Second Single “74 Leonard Street” Now!Shows AnnouncedFor fans of Ernest Rangling, Victor Rice, Horace Silver, New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble, The Skatalites. Stream “74 Leonard Street” Here |
| (March 21, 2025) — Acclaimed bassist Ben Basile, best known for his work with Big D and the Kids Table, is thrilled to announce the release of his new single, “74 Leonard Street”, the second track from his debut solo album, ‘Benergy’, set to drop May 2nd via Sleep Walk Sounds.A heartfelt tribute to the legendary Knitting Factory venue in Manhattan, “74 Leonard Street” reflects on the golden era of ska shows that shaped Basile’s musical journey. “I wrote this as a tribute to the old Knitting Factory when it was still in Manhattan in the early 2000s,” says Basile. “It was at this venue that my love and appreciation for the genre grew even deeper. This was where I first saw many artists who would influence my career: The Skatalites, New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble, Pilfers, Westbound Train, and Victor Rice. Fast forward ten years, and I would later have the chance to perform with both New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble and the Pilfers!”The single features standout performances from longtime musical collaborators Matt Garrison (Saxophone) and Vince Tampio (Trumpet), delivering a vibrant sound that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the genre.‘Benergy’, the album’s title, originated from a lighthearted moment with one of Basile’s bass students. “When I play ska punk, like with Big D and The Kids Table, it’s all about playing on top, playing with momentum and energy. Pushing the music the entire time,”Basile explains. His student’s response? “Benergy?”—a phrase that stuck and ultimately became the album’s name.About Ben BasileBasile’s passion for music ignited in his youth, thanks to a stack of ska and punk rock CDs from his sister. After earning degrees in Music Performance and Jazz Studies, he embarked on a career that took him from devoted fan to touring bassist with legendary acts like Pilfers, New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble, and Big D and The Kids Table. With performances spanning six continents, Basile remains a dedicated musician, composer, and educator, deeply rooted in the ska, jazz, and punk communities.When not touring, Basile can be found performing with projects like In The Pocket, Eric Puente Jazz Quartet, Sheridan Rúitín, and Emo Night Karaoke. He is also a founding member of the Poughkeepsie Jazz Project, supporting local jazz musicians since 2012.‘Benergy’ — Coming May 2nd, 2025The upcoming album, ‘Benergy’, is a culmination of Basile’s years of musical exploration and passion, featuring a stellar lineup of musicians from the ska and jazz worlds. Recorded at multiple studios across the East Coast and mastered by Tom Rosato of Zena Mastering, ‘Benergy’ promises to be a dynamic and deeply personal release.Stream “74 Leonard Street” now and stay tuned for the full album release this spring via Sleep Walk Sounds. Stream “74 Leonard Street” here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/benbasile/74-leonard-street Pre-order the ‘Benergy’ vinyl here: https://sleepwalksounds.limitedrun.com/products/864663-ben-basile-benergy-12-lp Upcoming Shows: Thursday, June 5th: All Points West – Newark, NJ Friday, June 6th: Reason & Ruckus – Poughkeepsie, NY Saturday, June 7th: TBA – Boston, MA Sunday, June 8th: Hutghi’s – Westfield, MA Tickets at benbasile.com |
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