Playing bass

I've had a thought of learning bass guitar from time to time. My only mental block to going through with it is—

"Bass is an instrument that doesn't really sound good by itself."

I've learned guitar and piano (and self taught a bit of harmonica) and those instruments one can play by themselves and have a good feel of completeness for the piece. Even drums are conducive to good solo. But a bass, to me, sounds awkward on its own, unless you're mimicking Seinfeld licks or trying to make an amateur porn, two things I'm not planning on doing any time soon.

So what do you think? Should I find a band (and I doubt most bands are willing to sign up a noob) or just play cello music with the bass?

The first band I played in recruited me simply because I was hanging out with a friend and they needed a body to play bass. If they already have songs, the guitarist will generally teach you the basics. If you're playing for some run of the mill alternative/post-grunge band, not much will be expected of you.

bass is more dominant in funk.example bass is used as a back up or another "beat keeper" instrument like drums.

edited 31st Oct '11 10:16:06 AM by vanthebaron

Next is consideration of what instrument to get.

I think an acoustic bass would be best (even if it's not widely used) because I don't have to dick around with an amp (especially if I end up not joining a band). However, they tend to be more expensive than those starter packs.

I've always been partial to the Gibson SG series of guitars

The Funk is strong with this one.

yes~~~~~ -music has sex with eardurms-

Join a trippy band. Psychadelic bass always sounds awesome.

I've had a go at the bass guitar. I'm more comfortable playing with a plectrum, which I imagine will only bring scorn upon me.

Not really; pretty much all rock bassists who aren't named Les Claypool play with picks.

It's pretty mixed from what I've seen, though picks do work well in rock and metal to get the more hard, percussive edge you need.

And I object completely to the idea that bass doesn't sound good on its own. Albums by jazz artists like Evan Brewer and Victor Wooten make it clear that the solo bass can be a beautiful instrument, right up there with solo guitar and piano.

Charlie Mingus is a personal favourite and he was primarily a bassist. Obviously he had his own orchestra, but he got some pretty interesting sounds from his instrument.

And, of course, how can one speak of melodic, lead bass playing without mentioning the mighty James Jamerson?

Speaking of bassists, has anybody ever heard of Norman Watt-Roy?

Not really; pretty much all rock bassists who aren't named Les Claypool play with picks

Lies.

edited 31st Oct '11 6:12:25 PM by Erock

I know a lot of ska bands play pickless just using the fingers.

Pickless bass is common enough.

I thought playing pickless was what you were supposed to do for the bass.

It seems that opinion is divided on the subject.

I imagine there are a lot of bassists who will switch to and from using anplectrum depending on the requirements of the particular song.

[citation needed]

Lies.

I am listening to a beautiful song that is bass only. They are rare, but they exist.

I'd share it with you but it's difficult to find for free, so here's somebody's cover:

The tone and manner of this is very different. It is also not as smooth and gentle as the original.

EDIT: No wonder—it's the one dude who flipped out and wanted all his music removed from Homestuck.

edited 1st Nov '11 9:14:55 PM by annebeeche

Initial Reaction: "Wow, this is pretty cool, how do people find this stuff?"

After going to video page and reading description: "Oh course...Homestuck."

I really should check that out eventually, but the fanbase intimidates me. Eh, I'll check it out someday anyway.

I'm sorry about the fandom (some of them scare me a little too), but Homestuck truly is an amazing comic—everything about it is creative and moving and beautiful. I was tentative when I tried it out, but I am really glad I did.

edited 1st Nov '11 9:16:30 PM by annebeeche

Well hey, I had the same reservations about Avatar The Last Airbender and now I'm a huge fan of that, so hey, it can't hurt.

...oh, and THE BASS IS COOL.

Homestuck...don't even know what it's about but,..

Bass is most satisfying when played in a group I think. But it can definetely be used as a solo instrument, if the bassist is capable enough technically and as a composer. I'm at work so i can't really post videos of some of my favorite, but i will try when i get home.

I personally do a lot of soundscape and looping stuff. Tons of delays, harmonies, and modulation effects. Amazing what kinds of sounds you can get from this instrument.

edited 2nd Nov '11 6:51:51 PM by Monoceros

Is there a good bass on the market with a body style similar to the Gibson Explorer?