Interesting left hand technique note

[Audiophage]

You know how everyone is all about proper left hand technique? Specifically, not doing the Hendrix thumb placement? Well I like how the picture of the person playing bass guitar in the header of the forums is doing just that.

You know, this image.

[schismpunk]

It's ok, because his instrument is cream, like Jimi's. It's a physics thing...

[EagleMoon]

Probably the only picture they could find that would fit the space at the top of the forum.

[Lulz]

I don't even see why people put their thumb over the neck on Bass, what possible advantage could it bring?

[Alvaro Martín Gómez A.]

Originally Posted by Lulz

I don't even see why people put their thumb over the neck on Bass, what possible advantage could it bring?

While it's not considered proper technique by any standards, some players have taken advantage of that practice. It's just a matter of style and, as someone said, "don't look at me. Just hear". Check out Louis Johnson, for instance:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLY_5g1274I&fmt=18

Specially his explanation at 7:21. Sadly the video is slightly out of sync, but no problem to watch it anyway.

[ChrisB2]

Originally Posted by Lulz

I don't even see why people put their thumb over the neck on Bass, what possible advantage could it bring?

For me, it started unconsciously over time on its own, when I'm playing the D and G strings. My hands are extremely large and it's easier to fret the higher strings that way.

At least it's not "flying pinkies" which is something that bothers me much more and is something I definitely work to control....

[lukep]

I heard John Entwistle say say that he allways brings his tumb over the top of the bass for stuff like octaves. You can see him do it in the vid below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVl39...eature=related

[HaVIC5]

It doesn't bring any advantage, and in most situations, it doesn't take anything away. It could be considered sloppy technique if you want a more efficient way of tackling the fretboard, but its generally safe, so that's all that really matters.

[FunkBear]

It doesnt really matter as long as your efficient, if that means moving your thumb to hit the notes, so be it.

And the best reason Jimi Hendrix would do this is to play certain chords, or play rhythm and lead at the same time (he would play rhythm using the low E and A and use the rest of the strings for melody)

[Sonicfrog]

It's a moot point for me. Me, with my stubby shorty fingers, I couldn't do it if I tried.

[LeemurEchoEcho]

Well from my point of view (as a player that does place his thumb at the back of the neck in the 'proper' fashion): why does it matter? In my opinion the right techniques are the approaches that produce the best results for the player. Just because many players opt to use the typical 'proper' technique doesn't mean that that player's approach is 'improper' or whatever, it just means it works for him. It is his own proper technique, you know?

[(b)Assman]

Originally Posted by schismpunk

It's ok, because his instrument is cream, like Jimi's. It's a physics thing...

lol

[etoncrow]

I have a plate and four screws in my left wrist which prohibits turning my wrist parallel to the finger board; therefore, my thumb often finds its way over the top seeking comfort...