Feeling a bit insecure about a new gig

[JimInMO]

I have been playing bass for a year now and always with the same band. Worked hard on locking in with the drummer and we can now play some pretty solid grooves. Going to sit in with a band next week that doesn't use a drummer. The band is: lead singer with amplified acoustic guitar, electric lead guitar and one of the guys thumps on a cajon and sings. They play a pretty wide range of songs. From Lefty Frizzell to Prince to John Prine to Buffalo Springfield. I have been playing along to a couple of their CD's this past week-end and realize how much I miss that solid kick drum in my ear. This is just a sit in, not an audition but I don't want to embarrass myself or screw them up. Any suggestion's on how to approach this would be appreciated.

[dmrogers]

I don't have any specific info that might help you. However, the last band I played in was without a drummer. A guitarist, a vocalist that also played guitar and/or mandolin and me on bass.

I practiced with their practice CD's before the first gig and really didn't have a problem.

Pretty much, the way we handled it was, the person starting the song would count if off and I would obtain the tempo from the count off. Really not that hard at all.

Think about it, what is the worst that could happen? I'm sure you will do just fine. Just focus on maintaining the a solid rhythm and you'll be fine.

The only advise I could give you is try to keep time as best as you can. If you have to pat your foot to help, then do it.

Good luck!

[prokfrog]

tap your foot

[dmusic148]

Don't rush. Rushing is perhaps the #1 mistake in a situation like this. And watch your volume- remember you don't have a drummer to keep up with.

[MalcolmAmos]

My suggestion would be to ask who sets the beat for this band. That's what the band is used to following.

Find out what/who the band is used to following -- is it the guy who thumps on the cajon? If that's who they follow don't make waves do the same - for now.