bass strumming like vic

jamesbrookes · #1 03-01-2007, 04:22 PM

in the intro to you cant hold no groove by victor wooten how does he strum so fast? besides practice is there a technique that i can learn so i practice it right?

JimmyM · #2 03-01-2007, 05:43 PM

I'm not familiar with the tune, but I know Vic strums much like Stanley Clarke, which is a flamenco strum using the nails. Get "School Days" by Stanley, which breaks it down and makes it easier.

Montius · #3 03-02-2007, 01:51 AM

I've never actually paid attention to Wooten's or Clarke's strumming technique, but I know Les Claypool uses a flamenco approach.

Check out some videos. Good examples are the main riff of To Many Puppies and the main riff of American Life (best example).

Here's a great breakdown of the American Life riff.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=fTlDlkDHc2c

Christopher · #4 03-02-2007, 10:05 AM

I just use index finger up-down to strum the intro.

EADG mx · #5 03-02-2007, 04:35 PM

Try using your index finger, middle finger, or both on the way up

And you thumbnail on the way down

Personally I use middle up - thumb down.

thumbin · #6 03-02-2007, 06:11 PM

I havnt heard that song yet... but he may be doing double thumping...

Grueber · #7 03-02-2007, 11:24 PM

here's a video for reference
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7um5p3gMaS8

I mainly use my index when strumming like that

Montius · #8 03-03-2007, 03:01 AM

Watching that brings back memories.

If you ever have the opportunity of seeing him live, do it, he puts on an incredible show. It's not just a virtuoso fest either. When he's got his family and co. along with him it's an incredible experience.

JimmyM · #9 03-03-2007, 05:06 AM

After seeing that, I now understand why his old Monarch was so beat to shreds in a couple particular spots.