Kind words from some of the folks I've worked with:
"Arcellus is a first call bassist with chops, tone, versatility, and great ears. He is a pleasure, bringing creativity and a professional attitude to every session."
-Billy Oskay, producer/engineer at Big Red Studio
"A true groovemaster; always tasteful."
-Jason Newsom, guitarist with Anomalous Quintet
"Arcellus brings an intense musicianship. [He has] the ability to move beyond the traditional role of the bass player to a more melodic, layered playing that relishes in nuance and subtlety. Still, at the heart of his playing is a groove that is almost defiant, and very alive."
-Eben Dickinson, drummer with Bright Red Paper
"When he plays, not only do you hear a respect for classical and jazz history, but you also hear tones from the modern day influences of funk, folk, and soul - just one reason why Arcellus is the best bass player to have in any situation."
-Teddy Presberg of Outright Music and The Red Note Revivalists
"Arcellus Sykes is a rare breed, the kind of bass player that comes along once in a great while. One that has stellar chops, incredible feel and a pro attitude. On top of all that Arcellus is a super nice guy and fantastic to work with. As far as we're concerned, he'll always be our top pick for touring and recording."
-Cee Cee James and Rob "Slideboy" Andrews
And from some of my private students:
"I truly enjoyed the hands on approach liberally sprinkled with the right amount of theory and technical instruction. His coaching allowed me to move forward while keeping my balance in grasping the musical sense of the project at hand."
-Alan M., private student
"Arcellus is fun to work with, and has taught me a huge amount about technique, and music in general. He approaches everything with a positive personality, and respects whatever level you’re at. Lessons are hands-on and, he goes at whatever pace you’re comfortable with."
-Devin V., private student
"I had been noodling for years and finally decided to get serious. You really can't learn to play an instrument without lessons. Arcellus has proven to be worth every penny. He presents the instrument in a very traditional and educated manner which has provided me an excellent foundation from which to expand my bass guitar skills. He has been very patient with me as a beginner and now that I am starting to have confidence with the instrument I look forward to our future studies."
-Mason D., private student
