Getting feedback on your basslines

[slendersunfish3]

Ive just made the jump from learning a few covers to rushing in to writing some original lines for my band.
When i listen back to our recordings i know i can make improvements- in all areas, but could really do with some constructive criticism.

Whats the best way to go about this ?

Other band members tend to be under critical, A teacher is one opinion, maybe online ?

If anyone has any experiences in how they have recieved feedback on thier lines id be interested to know.

[jackcregg]

Perhpas post some recordings on here and see what people say

[slendersunfish3]

O.k Would realy appreciate someone taking some time to listen critically !
myspace.com/theinfrared4

[jaebee]

i like the fuzz? tone you got on broken

what were you using there?

they seem fine for your music as far as i can tell, dont try to get too flashy or break away, as you are a part of a sound. just get your timing perfect and throw a few fills in where applicable

[tswd]

I thought your lines fit fine with the music. There's enough other instruments in the band that you don't need to be adding any extra melodies to the songs. So, your job is to make the music sound full and give it a sense of motion. I think you did both of those quite well.

The criteria I use for evaluating my bass lines is whether the bass sticks out in the song or not. If it does, something's wrong. The bass should add support to the rest of the band, not overpower it.

It's a little different if you're in a smaller band, say only three members. Then the bass may need to add more counter melody as well as the normal stuff.

[slendersunfish3]

Many thanks people ,all comments welcome

[Deacon_Blues]

I only listened to Broken, it's not really my music... However, I think your bass line fitted that song very well, no need to change anything there.

I would hesitate to use tswd's way of evaluating bass lines, at least as general method. I listen to whether the bassline grooves and how well it fits the song. I try to be as inventive as possible though. I really like to hear music that features a groovy bass line that really stands out while fitting the song perfectly. Sometimes it means only playing root 8ths, sometimes it means something way more advanced.

[Pattycakes31]

I like it! Props man.