Look, the bottom line is this: most DVDs out there that feature big name players are garbage as far as educational value goes. In most cases, all you're getting is a guy showing off his signature techniques and licks, and showing you how to do it.
But they're just techniques. If you spend the hours and hours learning them, you'll get it, but unless you find a way to elevate it to another level, you're going to sound like a clone. NO ONE will want to listen to your half-baked version of your hero.
And talking about EQUIPMENT, of all things! Tone is certainly of primary importance, but come on: there is no discussion about equipment that is actually going to help you PLAY better! Your hero's amp, bass, cords, effects, and strings work for him. They might not work for you.
Real music education comes from studying notes, chords, rhythms, etc. Also listening to as many players (of any instrument) and styles as you can. And with bass, there's a whole realm of learning how to GROOVE. Learning how to establish and develop a theme with your basslines, learning where to fill in and when to lay out, how to articulate, how to LISTEN to your bandmates, etc. Where is that featured in these DVDs?
By doing lots of practicing and playing with others, listening to great recordings and studying theory and ear training, and experimenting with different equipment, you eventually start to develop your own sound and style.
I'm not discrediting anyone's contribution to the instrument here; but music education is pathetic today. Not only are the DVDs bad, but a lot of the books too. Put it this way: if you're trying to learn how to play using the books and videos they sell at Guitar Center, you're screwed.
DVDs have a certain entertainment value, but to really learn, you need good teachers and good materials. Find a teacher who knows theory. As for materials, there's a lot of great stuff at
www.carolkaye.com and
www.berkleepress.com.
Sorry about the rant, everyone. It just frustrates me that there is a ton of money being made on these awful materials. It's sad that young players are being sold the lie that learning a bunch of flashy techniques is going to somehow help you to learn about music.
