Eric Bass is an American musician and record producer, most known for being the bassist of mega rock band Shinedown since 2008. He is a self-taught bassist and a skilled individual with many talents. Bass will launch his debut solo album, I Had a Name, this week, and he is the only musician.
Eric Bass – I Had A Name
Release Date: 28 February 2025
Words: Rhys Tagg
Besides singing, Eric Bass plays all the instruments and handles the entire production of I Had A Name. It was back in November 2024 that Bass announced the solo project. He released two singles, Mind Control, last November, followed by Azalia in December.
The album is almost an autobiographical piece, written and reflecting on his battle with depression. Bass has, however, stated, “this is not the central theme of the story in the album.” It was more incidental than an aim, as it was really only on reflection the theme became evident to Bass.
I Had A Name certainly aims at being somewhat of a rock opera, with plenty of storylines and characters intertwined, creating a dystopian world. Once the album is released, there will be a follow-up with a graphic novel and a series of music videos that will play like a short film, which will tie the project together.
There is plenty in I Had A Name to pull in the Shinedown fans and more than enough to get them to stay. What is becoming ever clearer from this release is how integral Bass is to Shinedown and how he has a clear influence on the band. Bass is an exceptionally talented individual with a story to tell. He is a remarkable songwriter, which is evident throughout the record.
The album kicks off with World Unseen with a slow, mellow, atmospheric intro, flowing into piano melodies before operatic vocals. The song is built on layers of sound, giving a beautiful insight into what Bass is capable of.
Track two, The New Gods Of War, is a heavier and riffier affair that kicks the album into gear and features heavy rock vibes. Azalia ramps up even more and sees the album really begin to slap. It’s worth taking time with this one and listening on repeat as it’s a layered song with a lot going on in the background. It is also the introduction to a key character. “Azalia is one of the two main protagonists in our story,” Eric Bass explained.
We Can’t Go Home is a belting tune with beautiful crashing drums and uplifting guitars. Mind Control is a powerful introduction to character Devaren, enhancing the storytelling of the album and delving into depression and the chaos it brings with it. The track is one of the more ferocious offerings on the record.
New Graves brings yet another sound and vibe, chugging music and vocals, transitioning between deeper and higher ranges. In contrast, All Good Children – Our Guts is a sombre affair, being one of the songs where the lyrics are likely to evoke the most feelings. Modenhardt presents vocals and piano in brilliant harmony, turning into crashing and shredding guitars and a stomping beat.
I Had A Name is generally fast and catchy, with experimental feelings smattered throughout. It is certainly layered and unique, yet still vaguely familiar.
This is a record where Eric Bass has really gone on to confront inner demons. In doing so, he has stepped away from the side of the stage with Shinedown into the bright lights of a frontman.
And what a spectacular job he has made of it.
Eric Bass – I Had A Name – Is out on 28 February 2025 and is available to pre-order from here.
