(Only) NOW I understand the P bass

[chris_b]

Precisions were the main basses being played, when I started going to gigs, and later I discovered that a Precision was the bass on most of the music I listened to on record and radio. I've owned one since 1969, it was my only bass for 26 years. That sound still makes me smile every time I hear it.

 

[shirojiro]

Its a good sound. I was watching/listening to a graph of James Jamerson playing ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ on YT just tonight. Setting aside the fine note choices, that “flats on a P” sound can just hit the spot.

That graphical depiction of the bass line is amazing and super entertaining to watch.

 

[dabbler]

That graphical depiction of the bass line is amazing and super entertaining to watch.

Does anybody here know how that was created???

 

[SharpCat]

Does anybody here know how that was created???

Video notes says it was created by Jack Stratton of Vulfpeck.

 

[alack]

here’s a pic of mine, I did a very dodgy home refin (Inca silver) which looks pretty rough but I kinda like it.

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I kinda love it!

 

[dbsfgyd1]

In all the years I've been playing bass, especially the last few years where I've been primarily a bass player, I never owned a P bass nor really saw the need. But I always thought I wanted one just to have a more complete collection. I had no idea what I was missing.

As I was just sort of cycling through my basses this morning the sound I noticed from my P bass was this deep thick "growl". I have no idea why I had never heard it before. But it was such a satisfying sound, different from all the basses I've owned. Perhaps I had to wait until I was more intimate with bass playing to be able to hear and appreciate it. I'm glad I waited because I think this new "Dark Night" color is pretty spectacular. It's definitely going to be up there at the top of my rotation.

Thanks for letting me share.

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I found my love for PBs when I started recording back in the late 70’s. No need any effects, just run straight into the board. And there is was. The perfect prototypical bass sound. No fuss no muss. Been playing them ever since.

PS: I recently bought a JB that came with flats (first bass I’ve owned since the mid 70’s that didn’t have rounds that I’ve been using recording some covers of B side never were hits. Just a little softer low end and seems to fit the genre nicely.