Solo Bass, bass and drums, bass and guitar

phippsyg · #1 07-31-2007, 06:26 AM

What do you think is the most entertaining way to get some bass performance out there. I really want to do some of my own bass stuff but it is so hard to get a band as such to commit to it. But it is easy enough to arrange one other instrument so what do you think is the best way to go. Or would it be better to work on the loop thing. Open to any ideas and suggestions. I already play in a couple of bands and do some session stuff but I want to do some stuff that is bass orientated.
Would love some listening suggestions as well.
Thanks.

IanStephenson · #2 07-31-2007, 08:18 AM

I'd find a drummer as a stable co-member. If you're going to be going "off-the-beaten-track", having someone to hold a groove while you're "out-there" will be a big help. I'd put together a mix of pieces, solo bass, and bass+drums to make up a short set.

THEN I'd start looking for "guest" instruments. Use them as seasoning to spice up the set. A vocalist on a few songs will make your set more accessable. I always thought flute would sound great. Banjo works well in this context ;-)

If you've got the contacts it would be easy to invite people in on a casual basis, without the hassle of a big commitment. Each gig would be different depending on who could make it. You might have some gigs just bass and drums, others could have lots of guests depending on availability.

Ian

Listening Sugguestions (Sure you've heard them all):
Jaco/Joni: Dry Cleaner from Des Moines. Exactly how I hear bass and vocals in my head.
Stu Hamm: Playing SONGS, rather than bass shapes. Play a Polka!
Mike Dimin: Check out his arrangements and tutition book available through his website.
Mike Manring: Duh!

phippsyg · #3 07-31-2007, 05:54 PM

Great idea. The drummer in one of the bands I play in is keen and I know lots of other musos but most of them are pretty busy. Why didn't I think of this! Your right Dry Cleaner is perfect for vocals and bass. I love how he emulates brass stabs with the harmonics in that track. haven't heard it for years will have to dig it up. Thanks.