holding the bottom...

[ninefingerbass]

So the title of the thread states it all. After years of no band I finally found one that is challenging and fun. Problem is, I'm not used to playing the bottom. We play upbeat tempos and weird times and rythyms. The part I fall behind on, playing the bottom. On my videos they show me playing high end, soloing and melodic music. I'm not used to playing the bottom.

What do I or how do I start keeping the bottom end to support the rest of the band. Please no smart comments. I have room for soloing which they encourage me to do so we all have our "thing" to say.

I want to be a better support and provide the meat and potatoes for the band and connect with them. Any good fusion style music I can listen to, musicians of that genre and/or tips would be greatly appreciated.

[tZer]

You've taken the first step. The next time you jam, commit to focusing on keeping it as simple as you can - locking tight with the drummer and finding the most minimal, but effective groove you can.

Focus on rhythm and groove - again, think minimally - don't worry about 'going high' or riffing - become a part of the rhythm section primarily - provide the roots for the changes - and do so in with a rhythmic sensibility that is rock solid, confident and generous.

Less is more. If you follow this path, when you do get the opportunity to 'go high' it will stand out that much more.

[Thor]

I think this is more appropriate in Technique as that is
really the crux of the question.

While soloing and getting out there is good, your primary
job is to lock up with the drummer and drive the bus.

I am fortunate that I have a great drummer and we lock up
and sync very well. The sign of the really good rhythm
section is when the guitar player has to do little more than
'frost the cake'. He can not play or just play chords and sing
and it all still grooves.

If you don't have that basic building block in place, then
soloing will become erratic and timing will start to come
apart.

The trick I use when soloing is that no matter where I go, I
am back with a strong emphasis on THE ONE. This anchors
both my groove line and my solo line if I want one - I often
do and am asked to. But having an intimate relationship with
the ONE is key and that means attacking the one with the
drummer until it becomes second nature. Then build from
there.

I'll move it right now for ya.

Edit: Rock Laird held a great anchoring bottom for one of the
most eclectic and innovative fusion bands, Mahavishnu Orchestra.
No small feat that. The Inner Mounting Flame and Birds of Prey are
a testament to how to glue together a band that is way out there.

[Beginner Bass]

Try and determine the simplest line/groove you can use and still hold the song together.