Simple bass parts: Better or does it depend

[MrBorisSpider]

Hey Justin,

As a producer and a bass player, you have a really good perspective for what I'd like to ask, so if you don't mind:

When you, or another player, lay down a bass part, do you perfer a simple part like, say Duck Dunn, would lay down or does it really depend?

I perfer a simple part, myself, but I'd like to hear a pro's opinion on it.

Thanks.

P.S: You've got some great tone, epscially with your old-school P-bass re-issues.

 

[jmjbassplayer]

I like to be a spastic freak, that's what I prefer.

But then better judgement weighs in, and I edit, edit, edit myself. I actually really enjoy the process. It's like doing this really garish, overblown flower arrangement, then realizing, as you look from across the room, that all it needs was two hyacinth, six peonies, and some greens to fill it out.

Oh and thanks for your complements on my tone! Sometimes you might be hearing actual old-school P-basses though, along with reissues.

Best,
JMJ

 

[MrBorisSpider]

Thanks again. Vintage stuff is awesome. I played on some 70's (not supposedly the golden age for Fender, but I digress) P-basses and J-basses. Great stuff, but I can't afford 'em.

 

[JimmyM]

Vintage freaks may disagree with me, but I like newer Fenders as much as vintage. Having said that, I'd still love to get a pre-CBS Precision

 

[jmjbassplayer]

I agree with JimmyM! My new Fenders are smokin' too.

JMJ