Ahead, on or behind the beat?

[mysterial]

Do you play ahead of the beat?

Right on it?

Or behind the beat?

Do you even know?

I don't. I can't tell. I should ask the drummer.

All of the above.

 

[vindibona1]

All of the above.

I'm not criticizing, but wondering... Under what circumstances would you play ahead of the beat?

 

[JimmyM]

I'm not criticizing, but wondering... Under what circumstances would you play ahead of the beat?

Fast jazz swing usually requires it. I have been accused of dragging by playing on the beat. Apparently I am the beat in those situations

 

[Nashrakh]

It's also my experience, mainly from playing in big bands, that conductors like the bass to push the band, or else the horns will just drag it all down to heck.