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Willis Takes on Your Questions
Hey Willis,
Pablo Picasso said, “Good artists copy. Great artists steal.” What’s your take on copping other peoples styles? I mean, we all have this desire to find our own voice. But if I want to sound like myself, why do I need to learn how to play other people’s stuff? How much copying do I have to do?
Thanks,
O.C.
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Hey O.C., Unless you’re born some kind of freak-prodigy-genius, you probably don’t sound like one of the “greats” on the instrument. My philosophy is that you have to travel “through” influences to arrive at your own voice. The concept of avoidance just won’t cut it. If you avoid playing thumb, avoid playing fretless, avoid using harmonics avoid using a 5-string, etc. Eventually, you’re not going to have many tools left to express yourself. Learning what great players have done on the instrument is part of learning the vocabulary of the instrument. |
Develop a big enough vocabulary and eventually you’ll have several choices for how you want to express yourself musically. How you uniquely combine those choices could eventually become your own “voice”. The other side of the aviodance issue is: how can you truly choose to not sound like someone unless you know their playing intimately? That’s what I mean by traveling “through” an influence. Once you know exactly how to imitatie someone, it becomes much, much easier to make the choice to NOT sound like that player. The more influences you go through, the more options you’ll have at your disposal for how to express yourself. As far as how much copying you have to do – I have to ask: How good do you want to be?
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Hey Willis,
You seem to be the perfect person to answer this…i recently found a lot of free time in my schedule outside of bass playing. most of this time has been spent on a mountain bike. Do you have any tips on stretches, or exercises to keep the wrists limber. If I do more than 10 miles, my wrists end up feeling tight and weak. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I would also like to say thanks for all the licks I’ve managed to steal over the years, I probably owe you some money somewhere…
Nick
Hey Nick,
Contratulations on your newly found free time. I was lucky to get to ride a lot this summer but haven’t had any time to ride since the beginning of Sept. If you’re having a problem with tight wrists, it could be a few things. First I would start with your suspension and brakes. If you don’t have really good fork with plenty of compliant travel up front, then your front end is going to be bouncing around all the time and you’ll be squeezing the bars hard for control and hanging on for dear life. That tension will get to your wrists right away. Unfortunately nice, plush front suspension doesn’t come cheap. The next thing to look at would be the brakes. Properly set up disc brakes will allow you to lock up either wheel with just one finger, thus alleviating more pressure and tension from your hands. A disc brake setup is cheaper than a top-of-the-line fork but the combination of a great fork and disc brakes can probably solve most of your problems. Finally, I’d look at your posture. Over the years, the generally accepted “normal” riding position has evolved from a really stretched out “racing”-type position to the current more upright setup. This can be accomplished by using riser handlebars up front, using a shorter stem and possibly a short stem that is also angled up. This will put less weight on your hands and allow them to relax more. You shouldn’t have to do any wrist or arm stretching before you ride. Feel free to check back in if these solutions don’t work.
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Hey Willis.
First, I must say i am a big fan, since i was 13 yars old…now i am pretty old, 29 ;let me tell you that because of you I’ve been playing fretless for 12 years almost!.
I saw you on TV when you were on tour here in Chile with Tribal Tech (what a great show!!). The most curious thing is that your gig was shown in open TV in prime hour. I’ll never forget that.
My question is why did you switch from a single coil (as you used in the Chilean show), and then to a humbucker since the Ibanez GWB1?Well, hope you are fine. Hope to see you again here in Chile. Big hugs from an old fan.
Rodrigo
Hey Rodrigo,
Thanks for the kind words – wow, imagine: “Ladies and gentlemen stay tuned – after the Tribal Tech concert we will join the season finale of Lost (already in progress)”.
Actually, the single coil you mentioned actually was a hum-canceller custom made for me by Bartolini. Once I had the opportunity to come up with a new pickup, we made it fit the shape of the ramp and Bartolini was able to magically make a 3-2 humbucker internally and still we were able to individually control the internal proximity of the magnets to control string-to-string balance. He’s a rocket scientest, ya know.
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Hey Willis,
On this video : http://fr.youtube.com/watch?v=ixoNVlcw6zY
You have three knobs, I know there 1 volume and two in one bass/treble knobbs. What is the function of this knobb ? middle range like on aguilar obp3 or else ?
ps : I have a GWB 1005 (and in a few days a GWB 2 TKF that makes me so happy)
thanks for all…
Matthieu
Hey Matthieu,
That would be the GK volume control of the V-Bass. I’m using a V-Bass setup with Graphtech’s Ghost piezo-saddle pickups and the internals installed in my 1005. Congrats on the 1005 and GWB2 . . . enjoy.
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Hello Gary,
Just purchased a used (like new) GWB1005.? I have only played a fretted bass, but always wanted a fretless.? WOW, love the sound, even though I am still trying to find the notes.? But, it’s getting better every time I play it.?
My question: Will the round wound strings destroy the fretboard?? I love the bright, clear sound from them.? But, I worry about wearing deep grooves into the ebonol fingerboard.? Do the ground wound strings sound very good??
I heard some of your playing for the first time this week also, you are really one of the most enjoyable bassist ever to listen too.
Thanks,
Pete
Hey Pete,
It’s “Hey Willis”. The Gary moniker was retired a long time ago. Again, contrats on the 1005 and knock yourself out with the roundwounds. There’s two things that will help prevent wear and tear on the fingerboard. First is that you should never achieve vibrato by pushing and pulling the string across the fingerboard. I had to learn that one myself. Your vibrato should come from “rolling” your finger parallel to the string. The other thing is that you should use as little pressure as necessary to play a note without it buzzing. Any extra pressure will only result in fatigue, lack of mobility, tension and a greater chance that you’ll wear the strings down into the fingerboard. Another thing that helps is to turn up the amp and play softer. Playing softer will allow you to set up the action closer – so you’ll require less pressure to hold the string down on the neck and reduce the likelyhood of grinding.
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Hey Willis,
I was wondering if I can purchase the Ramp seperately? I could’ve sworn they were for sale on the website some time ago? Please let me know. Thank you for your time.
Best Wishes,
Jeremy
Hey Jeremy,
There’s an outside chance that you could order a replacement ramp from an Ibanez dealer but it would only fit the bass that it was designed for. I’ve personally made hundreds of ramps for students/friends over the years but each one has to be custom fitted to the particular pickup layout for the individual bass. If you’re pretty handy with a fixed belt sander or don’t mind a lot of hand-sanding, you can make one yourself. Of course, the ultimate solution is to buy one of my basses. (sorry, coudn’t resist)
Positive Grid launches Spark 2, the next evolution of their cutting-edge smart guitar practice amplifiers and Bluetooth® speakers.
Engineered for acoustic, electric guitar, and bass, Spark 2 delivers an immersive practice and playing experience. Enjoy detailed sound and an all-new upgraded speaker design powered by Positive Grid’s exclusive Sonic IQ Computational Audio technology. With an onboard creative looper, optional battery power, and intuitive AI features for tone exploration and practice, Spark 2 is the gateway to a musical experience that goes beyond expectations.
Proprietary Audio and Advanced Technology
Spark 2 represents a leap forward in amplifier design. It integrates a new DSP amp modeling engine with double the processing power, and at 50 Watts, it packs 25% more volume than the original. Positive Grid’s proprietary Sonic IQ Computational Audio delivers incredibly detailed and dynamic sound. New HD amp models, enhanced by multi-band dynamic range compression and virtual bass augmentation, redefine the sonic landscape.
Equipped with two premium FRFR speakers and reflex ports, Spark 2 offers wide stereo imaging and broader frequency response, ensuring refined bass and clear, immersive sound.
Built-In Creative Looper
Spark 2’s built-in Groove Looper features hundreds of hyper-realistic drum tracks. From basic loops to multi-layered soundscapes or the ultimate jam session, this intuitive tool inspires endless creativity. Onboard amp controls provide quick, on-the-go looping functionality.
AI-Powered Tone and Smart Jam
Spark AI revolutionizes tone exploration. Describe any desired tone in the Spark app – from practical to outlandish – and Spark AI will suggest tones to audition or download. The more it’s used, the smarter it gets, delivering the perfect sound.
Additional smart features make it easy to practice, learn new songs and improve playing skills. Smart Jam listens to the user’s playing style and generates accompanying bass and drum parts, while Auto Chords analyzes any song streamed and displays the guitar chords in real time, to make learning and practicing new songs easier than ever.
Enhanced Hardware Design and Portability
Spark 2 allows for storing up to eight customizable presets directly on the amp for quick access to favorite sounds. Perfect the tone with large, visible onboard controls for looper, EQ, gain, reverb, and more.
Designed for convenience, an optional rechargeable battery provides up to 12 hours of playtime for on-the-go sessions. The new double-thick strap and durable build ensure easy and secure transport. Spark 2 is also Bluetooth® ready, allowing for music streaming and jamming along with favorite tracks anytime, anywhere.
Multiple Outputs and Advanced Features
Spark 2 offers versatile connectivity with a headphone out for private practice, stereo line outs for external audio sources, and a USB-C port which enables it to function as an audio interface. WiFi-enabled, Spark 2 allows convenient over-the-air firmware updates, keeping the amp up to date with the latest features and improvements.
“I’ve used a ton of practice amps while touring the world for over 38 years and it was always just a technical, bland exercise,” says guitar virtuoso, singer-songwriter and producer Nuno Bettencourt. “Spark 2 is like taking Madison Square Garden wherever you go – epic and versatile.”
Color Options
Available in Pearl or Black finish with a dark weave grille and premium finish.
Special Event, Upgrade Pricing & Availability
Join the special live premiere event featuring Nuno Bettencourt and surprise guests on August 1, 2024, at 8:00 am PT/11:00 am ET. Visit positivegrid.com/pages/livestream for more details and to sign up for a reminder.
Regularly USD $299, Spark 2 will be available at special early bird pricing during the pre-order period. Registered Spark 40 owners can also receive exclusive upgrade pricing.
For more information and to sign up for pre-order alerts, visit positivegrid.com/products/spark-2.
A review of the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
Introduction: The Joyo Gloam is a sub-octave fuzz pedal specifically designed for bass players, combining modern sub-octave effects with rich fuzz tones. With two independently controlled circuits, the Gloam aims to provide a versatile range of sounds, from deep, aggressive fuzz to Moog-like synth effects. This review will explore the Gloam’s specifications, controls, and overall performance, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 130 * 110 * 50 mm
- Weight: 403g
- Working Voltage: DC 9V
- Controls: The Joyo Gloam features a comprehensive control set designed to provide bassists with a wide range of tonal options:
- Dry Tone: Adjusts the tone of the clean signal.
- Dry Volume: Controls the volume of the clean signal.
- Sub Octave Volume: Adjusts the volume of the sub octave signal.
- Gain: Controls the amount of gain in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz: Adjusts the intensity of the fuzz effect.
- Bass: Controls the bass frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Treble: Adjusts the treble frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz Mode Switch: Switches between two different fuzz modes.
- Dry Tone Frequency Switch: Selects between two different frequency points for the dry tone.
Performance: The Joyo Gloam excels in its dual-circuit design, offering both a sub octave and a fuzz channel that can be controlled individually. However, it’s important to note that the octaver cannot be used without the fuzz circuit activated; the only way to solo the octaver is by turning down the fuzz while both channels are engaged.
Fuzz Circuit: The fuzz circuit includes standard controls such as gain, volume, bass, and treble, along with a fuzz mode switch that toggles between two distinct fuzz modes. While one of the fuzz modes is highly usable and delivers a rich, aggressive tone, the other mode falls short and is less practical for most applications.
Octaver Circuit: The octaver circuit features controls for sub octave volume, clean volume, and clean tone, along with a dry tone frequency switch that provides two different frequency options. This allows for significant tonal versatility, enabling bassists to fine-tune their sound to match their preferences. Despite its limitation of being tied to the fuzz circuit, the octaver produces a deep, balanced sound that stands out.
Combined Effect: When used together, the fuzz and octaver circuits create a wide range of sounds, from classic, aggressive fuzz to synth-like tones reminiscent of a Moog synthesizer. This combination makes the Gloam a powerful tool for bassists seeking to experiment with their sound and achieve unique, textured tones.
Pros:
- Versatile Controls: Extensive control options for both fuzz and octaver circuits.
- Rich Tones: Delivers deep, aggressive fuzz and balanced octaver sounds.
- Sturdy Construction: Durable build quality ensures reliability.
- Wide Range of Sounds: Capable of producing everything from classic fuzz to synth-like effects.
Cons:
- Unusable Fuzz Mode: One of the fuzz modes is less practical.
- Dependent Octaver: Octaver cannot be used independently of the fuzz circuit.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Joyo Gloam sub-octave fuzz pedal offers a versatile and powerful option for bassists looking to expand their tonal palette. Despite some flaws, the Gloam delivers impressive sounds and flexibility. Its combination of rich fuzz and deep octaver tones, coupled with a sturdy construction, makes it a valuable addition to any bassist’s pedalboard. For those seeking a modern bass distortion with the added depth of sub-octave effects, the Joyo Gloam is a compelling choice for a very compelling price.
Visit online at joyoaudio.com/product/281.html
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Behind the Strings – Jim’s Corner…
D’Addario & Co. proudly announces the launch of “Jim’s Corner,” a captivating new YouTube series telling the 400-year-old story of the D’Addario family creating the world’s largest music accessories company. This series features Jim D’Addario, Founder and Director of Innovation at D’Addario and Co., sharing his family’s remarkable journey from 17th century Italy to a 21st century global enterprise.
In the first four episodes now available, Jim D’Addario takes viewers back to the beginning, making strings from animal guts and knotting ukulele wire as a family around the television. Countless generations carried the passion forward until the 1970s when the company made it official and never looked back. Jim recounts the creation of strings that inspired legendary riffs, including one by The Who, the launch of Darco strings, the merger with Martin Guitars and the company’s humble beginnings with his wife, Janet and brother, John. Jim D’Addario’s firsthand accounts provide an intimate and personal perspective on the milestones and challenges that shaped D’Addario into the revered brand it is today.
Episode Highlights:
- Episode 1: The Early Days in Italy and the Move to America
- Episode 2: Inspiring Iconic Riffs and Legendary Partnerships
- Episode 3: Launching Darco Strings and Merging with Martin Guitars
- Episode 4: Building the D’Addario and Co. Legacy
Watch & Subscribe Now:
Join us in celebrating this incredible legacy by watching the first four episodes of “Jim’s Corner” on YouTube. New episodes will drop every month so please subscribe to our channel to ensure you don’t miss any future episodes and exclusive content from D’Addario & Co.: www.youtube.com/@daddarioandco
Gear News
Gear News: Aguilar Amplification Unveils Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp
Aguilar Amplification announces the release of the Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp pedal. Hand serialized 1-100, this exclusive edition celebrates Aguilar’s deep roots in New York City with a tribute to its iconic landmarks and vibrant spirit.
Born in the heart of NYC and raised on the road, the Tone Hammer Preamp DI has been an indispensable tool for bassists seeking inspiring tone and versatility. The new Limited Edition Gold NYC builds on this legacy with striking custom graphics encapsulating the essence of New York City. Featuring iconic landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, this pedal is not just a tool, but a piece of art embodying the soul of the city. Each unit features a sharp platinum silkscreen over a stunning matte gold sparkle finish, that is as visually captivating as it is sonically powerful.
The Tone Hammer is an essential preamp/direct box for every bassist’s toolbox. The Tone Hammer features fully sweepable midrange frequencies in addition to bass and treble controls. With the Tone Hammer’s pristine D.I. players are set for either studio or stage. To give this tone shaping unit the ultimate flexibility we introduce our proprietary Adaptive Gain Shaping circuitry (AGS). AGS allows the player to kick in an additional gain structure and EQ with the “stomp” of a button. You can go from modern slap sounds to vintage or overdriven. 18-volt operation gives the Tone Hammer plenty of headroom to reproduce the most dynamic playing styles. Separate gain and master controls allow players to dial in just the right gain structure for any instrument.
Aguilar Amplification’s Jordan Cortese adds, “With only 100 hand-numbered units available, this third iteration of our NYC edition Tone Hammer is a collector’s dream. “It’s a homage to our city’s monumental influence on music and culture and celebrates the craftsmanship and the story of Aguilar”.
Street price: $299.99 For more information, please visit www.aguilaramp.com
Gear News: Future Impact V4 Guitar & Bass Synth Now Available in the U.S.
Interview With Barker Bass’s Inventor and Writer Lee Barker
Working-Class Zeros: Episode #4 – Boutique and Vintage Basses, Dress Code for Summer Gigs
Gear News: Ibanez & Graph Tech Launch Multi-Scale Bass with Cutting-Edge Tuning
Album: John Entwistle, Rarities Oxhumed – Volume Two
July 22 Edition – This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Gear News: Positive Grid Launches Spark 2
Gear Review: Exploring the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Alberto Rigoni On Unexpected Lullabies
