Quote:
Originally Posted by jim72911t
While I agree with most of this and that any bass player worth his salt should know how to play/stay in the pocket, I think there is room to handle some of the melodic stuff as well. Keep in mind that my two favorite bass players are Peter Hook from Joy Division and Moose from New Model Army. (Sorry targa911S, I've only been playing for 25 years so my influences might be a bit different than you "old farts"  ) Coincidentally, Tommy Shannon is one of my faves as well, but for totally different reasons. |
Lee Sklar is a guy who can be melodic while keeping a deep pocket. I am a huge fan of early 70's pop as the arrangements were often amazing. The bass work by those session guys was epic and not your typical I-V approach.
As for getting bored when playing a grove, ghost notes and "not playing" notes can be your friend - assuming you and the drummer are having a good conversation. One of the exercises I do is playing three dotted 8th notes (think the bass groove to Black Cow) with a metronome. Start that riff on the down beat, then start it on the "e" of 1, then the "and" of one, then the "uh" of 1, then on downbeat of 2, etc. Each one is a completely different pocket feel. The downbeat and "and" are the typical "white" grooves. The "e" an especially the "uh" are way funkier. Being able to slide between those feels while staying locked is a life-long pursuit and will certainly keep you from getting bored.
The other thing is to listen to some Anthony Jackson. He's all over the place while still locking the band.
early:
The O'Jays - For The Love of Money (Audio) - YouTube
later:
Michel Camilo - New York Band - "NOT YET" - YouTube
Hiromi The Trio Project / Desire - YouTube