Ara Adams-Tamatea, a professional bass player since 2002, has played in a number of bands over the years. Best known for his part in L.A.B, Ara is the bands fulltime bassist and Playback Tech. Ara was also a member of the popular reggae band Katchafire in the 2000s, and he has been fortunate enough to session with many other NZ artists over the years, such as Sons Of Zion, NZ Marley All-Stars, Majic Paora, Paua, and Hollie Smith. Although Ara has never received any formal music education, he honed his chops playing at garage parties, kapahaka, and jamming with as many cover bands as he could throughout Hamilton, which ultimately lead him to join Katchafire - a reggae covers band at the time. While best known as a Bass Player, Ara has also spent many years in other roles in the Music Industry, such as touring Playback Tech, full time DJ, Studio Engineer, Promoter, Booking Agent, and Band Management.
Photo by Andy Jackson
“I was first introduced to Hamurana Guitar Works by Shelley and Waylon McPherson, who own McPherson Guitar Repairs and Pedals here in Papamoa Beach. They showed me one of Jeff’s acoustic guitars, and I was floored with the craftsmanship and stunning wood work. They suggested I approach Jeff regarding a custom bass build…… but I was way too shy, so they arranged a time for me to meet Jeff here at their workshop and the rest is history! Jeff has the patience of a saint, because I was so indecisive about what I wanted, but as the consultation went on it became apparent that I wanted a workhorse 4 string Jazz Bass. What I got back however was SO much more!! This bass has blown me away with the way it looks, it’s feel, its functionality and most importantly, the way it sounds!! What was great about Jeff was his ability to listen to what I wanted and then he would make suggestions to improve upon my original plan. Some of his ideas have been a major head turner with my musician mates too - especially the luminlay fret markers during blackout on stage, and the Fishman rechargeable battery. Jeff has exceeded my expectations about what my bass could look and sound like, and I can't give it high enough praise. It truly is world class in every way. By far this is the best bass I’ve ever owned, and I can’t wait to put in another order for a new bass in the future.” - Ara Adams-Tamatea
Photo by Quality Antics
