Good Groove Practice

[HollowHead]

Hey guys,

I'm new to bass and after puttsing around, figuring out the note locations and some scales, i have decided it is time to practice my groove. Now I have a metronome I am willing to practice, however, I looked into drum loops today. I am loving just playing along with those loops. So my question is: Is it better to practice on the metronome or am i safe getting my groove in shape with these drum loops?

[Jonny B]

Drum loops are probably better practice for grooving, just make sure that you keep in time.

[ErikP.Bass]

I would say it is good to do both. Playing with the metronome on the backbeat (2 & 4) is excellent, and I would start there at a slow to moderate tempo. The space really makes you work on your groove. Drum loops can mask flaws to a certain degree, as can speed.

Listening/playing with many different drum patterns from various musical genres will help you learn where to play.

Another thing that is helpful is to record your playing (with drum machine/ metronome) and listen to it, but be warned you may be surprised what you hear. This really makes problem areas jump out, so many subtleties in groove.

[HollowHead]

Great thanks guys!

[thewanderer24]

It's easier to groove with a drum loop than a metronome. Once you get a groove down with the drum loop, work on it with just the metronome. It will help your feel a lot and make you a much stronger player.