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Worship Bass With Steve Gregory: Bass Blessings
Meet Steve Gregory
When I was younger, I had a very cynical view of worship bassists. I imagined that playing bass in a worship setting meant sitting stoically on a stool, playing whole notes from a page in a hymnal. I was convinced that playing for worship was possibly the most boring fate a bass player could face!
I kept this attitude until my girlfriend, now my wife, challenged me to actually go to church. I explained that, while I would go to church with her, I knew that the music would be painful to listen to, at best.
Have I mentioned that in our relationship, my wife is the smart one?
My wife took me to Highlands Fellowship Church in Abingdon, VA and thoroughly enjoyed watching my arrogant attitude turn upside down. Her “I told you so” look went unnoticed as first, because I was immersed in the music! From that one experience, my opinion of worship music changed 180 degrees and I found my calling as a bassist.
After my initial wake up call, I went on a mission to learn all I could about worship music. I listened to Lincoln Brewster, Jeremy Camp, Francesca Battistelli, Tommy Walker, and others and was amazed to discover that, yes, worship music could be hip. I also realized that the mythical “stoic stool sitters” were nowhere to be found. Instead, bassists including Norm Stockton, Abraham Laboriel, and Matthew Tennikoff were playing grooving bass lines that would silence even the most anti-worship music critics.
While on this discovery mission, I was blessed with the opportunity to play worship music on a weekly basis. What I immediately realized was that there is a distinct role for the worship bassist. This role can be summed up in one sentence:
“The role of the worship bassist is to aid in the creation of a special musical environment in which people can worship, praise, and prepare for the message.”
This may seem to be a bit “touchy feely” and am I certain that some of you are worried that I’ll be presenting a solo bass arrangement of “Kumbaya”, but there are sound musical principles to use in fulfilling this role. Let’s explore these concepts and see how to create the worship environment from the bottom up.
You Have to Love the Drummer
Bassists learn a basic rule soon after they pick up the bass: create a pocket with the drummer. In worship music, the drums and bass provide the immediate feel that determines the fullness and depth of the worship environment. I’ve heard several worship performances where the “spark” was missing and almost every time, the problem can be traced to the bassist and drummer not locking in a groove together.
I am unbelievably lucky to play with a great drummer who has an impeccable sense of time, listens incredibly well, and has chops to spare. When we first began to play together, building a bond was the first order of business. To do this, a return to basics was necessary: I listened to the kick drum and locked in as tightly as possible with that drum alone. The result? We immediately felt a connection. I then allowed my lines to interact with the kick, snare, and hi-hat. I made it my goal that, when a bass note and drum hit coincided, the drummer felt as if the drum actually triggered the bass note. By doing this, we felt as if we had been playing together for years! Now that we have been playing together for some time, we are “brothers in groove” and together form the foundation for the worship experience.
Victor Says…
In a recent clinic I attended, Victor Wooten made a fantastic and often overlooked point. Victor pointed out that while the bassist-drummer relationship is an absolute necessity, you have to listen to each and every player you are with in order to create a complete groove. This is entirely true in the worship setting, where you may find yourself on stage with any number, and any combination, of instruments. In my setting, it is not unusual to be playing with drums, acoustic rhythm guitar, electric rhythm guitar, electric lead guitar, keyboards, and even a saxophone on occasion. With so much sonic space being occupied, it is important to play bass lines that support, not weaken, the worship experience.
Case in point: Highlands Fellowship Church features the best keyboardist I’ve had the pleasure of joining on stage. In particular, his Hammond organ work is phenomenal; however, the Hammond organ has a range that overlaps the range of my bass. In order to play together, the keyboardist and I have to listen to each other and develop a “conversation” together. Decisions I face in this conversation include what range on the bass I will choose for a given section, whether to play the root of a chord or create an inversion, and whether or not it would be beneficial to play a lick or passage together. Being a successful worship bassist requires having huge ears and the willingness to play what is needed for the worship experience. At times there is room for a flashy run down the fingerboard and other times a half note on the root is the perfect choice.
Follow the Leader
Here’s an important question to consider: how many people leave a church service singing the bass line to their favorite song? I’m willing to bet that the answer is, “not many, if any”. People are singing the words to the song! The worship leader singing these words and leading the experience must be listened to and supported, above all. This is where the worship bassist gets to truly exhibit a “servant’s heart”. If the vocalist needs space instead of a busy bass line, the space should be given to them. If the worship leader wants to have a sense of propulsion, a driving bass line is needed. What about when things don’t go the same way they did in rehearsal? If the worship leader decides to repeat a chorus where there wasn’t one in rehearsal, the change should be seamless. If the worship leader feels a connection and begins to vamp, be prepared to play that groove as long as is needed. Connecting with the worship experience often means “follow the leader”!
Be a Servant With a Groove
For the worship bassist, building the worship environment is everything. If you are willing to be a servant to worship, the musical and spiritual experience cannot be explained in words. I can say that if you stay strong on your spiritual walk, consistent in your musical walk, and keep the role of the worship bassist in your heart, you will have some of the most incredible adventures you have ever had playing your bass!
Until next time, I hope that your bass playing is blessed and that you can bless others through your bass playing!
PS – In case anyone is wondering, some of the most amazing worship experiences I’ve had were done sitting on a stool, playing whole notes.
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
