Gary Karlsrud’s artistic roots sprout out in all directions. His musical influences and photographs come from all over the map. He’s spent years playing bass everywhere from cruise ships to CBGB’s. He plays instruments including bass, guitar, piccolo bass and a Hyrbrid 6-string bass that can play in both the bass and guitar range.
His original music is cast from a mix of blues, funk and rock. The songs are decidedly centered around the rhythm section with no shortage of hooks and power-chords. His words weave through themes of modern life, society and relationships.
Karlsrud’s work with the band Tone Prophets can be described as solid rock infused with blues. The band retools versions of classic favorites from Traffic, Led Zepplin, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and Pink Floyd. His solo performances are loop based down tempo grooves that venture into classic songs that deliver a steady pulse.
Travels have taken him far, and along the way he has developed a love of photographing ancient forests. The forests are his quiet place, and the stage is where he makes his noise.