Bass Banjo?

[JimmyKickButt]

There is a hohner bass banjo at one of the local music stores. I've never heard of such a critter before. I can see why someone would make one for that banjo sound, just lower. However, I fail to see how practical that is. Does anyone have an example of a bass banjo being put to good use?

 

[Demonator]

I to have wondered this, I have read of a "bassimer" part bass, part dulcimer on
BassPlayer.com. As well as Ukebasses. Just how practical are these things?

 

[Joe.shaffer]

They aren't, novelty items really. IMO of course.

 

[stoutkraut]

Les Claypool uses an instrument dubbed the 'bassjo' during performances. That's all I know about it. : )

 

[ShenmueTacos]

Les Claypool uses an instrument dubbed the 'bassjo' during performances. That's all I know about it. : )

Here's a video of Les with his bassjo to give an example of what one may sound like.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qay5OSw-tQU

 

[Lakai]

 

[JimmyKickButt]

Here's a video of Les with his bassjo to give an example of what one may sound like.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qay5OSw-tQU

Yeah, like that. had a neck pup... Doesn't have much of a banjo sound though unless it's unplugged, but then it's uber quiet and pointless. Thanks for the reply.

 

[darkstorm]

Maybe for use in some country or bluegrass music?

 

[Tituscrow]

The link of Les and his bassjo don't really do it justice. You need to listen to Iowan Gal (from Of Whales and Woe) on good headphones to truly appreciate it's unique sound. Try it, I guarantee you won't be disappointed!

 

[bassteban]

There's also this: Bass Banjo

 

[abarson]

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I tried it's predecessor (with the deeper pan) at a local store last year: neither fish nor foul. I didn't think it was much more than a curiousity.

 

[MusicBear]

I've seen some bass banjos used by the Mummers string bands in Philadelphia, used in the Mummers Parade on New Year's Day. Never had a chance to hear one up close and in person though.