Bassist Robert Hurst has been a first-call musician since his early days with Wynton and Branford Marsalis. He’s just released two new albums, Bob Ya Head (Bebob Records, 2011) and Unrehurst, Vol. 2 (Bebob Records, 2011). In this interview, recorded at Jazz Standard in New York, Hurst talks about the politics and rhythms underlying Bob Ya Head; how his Detroit upbringing impacted his musical life; and why school is great but it’s no substitute for putting in time on the bandstand. Learn more at www.roberthurst.com.

Tracks used in this episode: (from Bob Ya Head) Optimism; Unintelectual Property; Comes You Comes Love; (from Unrehurst Vol. 2) I Love You; Bob’s 5/4 Tune; Monk’s Dream.