Should I play the original basslines?

[gidbass]

I didn't know where this question should go, but my band released an EP a while back when they had their previous bassist. His approach on tracks is very different to mine, and it was mentioned that during recording, his playing was so sloppy, parts which were okay were simply looped. However, the BL worked with him on creating some of the basslines and likes what he does on them, saying I should stick to it. Therefore, should I play the original recorded basslines or my own?

Play the "hooks" and fake the rest...

Good Luck!

 

[LowActionHero]

I play with a guitarist that I used to play drums with. His brother was on bass at the time. We occasionally play about 5 originals that we used to play back then (written before I came along). I made the drum parts up, if I remember right I may have been encouraged to for something different. I was later given a CD they had recorded.

So NOW I play bass with him again (and coincidentally the drummer from the CD). I stick mostly to the bass parts his brother used to play, but mostly just because they are great and I couldn't really imagine anything that would fit better. I deviate a little, but not much.

Not much help maybe, but an Interesting story?

Anyways, sounds you are doing your own thing live? I'd stick to whichever you like best.

BTW, we do a couple covers where I thought I was playing basically what was on the originals, but turns out it's different. I don't know if I heard a live version or remake and got confused or what, but I like what I'm currently playing so I'm sticking with it.

Haven't heard a single complaint or comment.

 

[bumperbass]

"it was mentioned that during recording, his playing was so sloppy"

I think that a LOT of soloed bass lines would sound sloppy, depending on string types, etc.

 

[Kipp Harrington]

Play what you feel. Have confidence in what you can contribute. It doesn’t have to be fancy... just lay down what you’re feeling from the tune. I don’t think anything bad can come from that. And if the BL doesn’t like it... oh well.

 

[artsta]

Play yours first (play them well).
Some songs they might like yours more, some they might prefer original.
Adjust accordingly.

 

[Rib 13]

For now, learn the original bass lines and act as if you are in a cover band...If you make changes, do it slowly so the band can get acclimated to you... The more the drummer deviates from the original, sometimes you can change more but sometimes less..use your judgement......try not to change anything where vocals are......if there are vocals but you have something melodic you'd like to do that is different than a root oriented line, just run the idea by the BL first........

 

[sawzalot]

This is a one worder: No.

Be you.

 

[AlexBassMP]

Learn them, then use them as a basis from which to develop your own. It's often the case that even the bassist who originally recorded a line doesn't play it the same way live as he did in the studio.

My approach is very close to your statement. I learn the original basslines and then I add some of my personal style to them but I usually don't change them too much.