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Slap Basics With Doug Johns: Traveling Bass-ics
Meet Doug Johns
So, I’ve wanted to write this article for quite some time, and no, it doesn’t have anything to do with opening the slap bass vocabulary. But that’s what I love about BMM, freedom to speak about relevant bass stuff from any angle.
Anyhow, I travel a lot as a bass player, and getting my instrument on board an airplane is often a weekly ritual. Although I think I’ve become somewhat skilled on this subject with all the flying I do, feedback is really the main goal of this article. While I’ve got a few tricks that I think you’ll find helpful, I still find out something new every time the subject comes up… and that’s why I’m bringing it up now.
I must start with the premise that, in my experience, most airlines don’t want you to bring an instrument onboard! And the number one obstacle I have is that the airline crew “thinks” it’s too big to fit in an overhead bin. If you’ve ever flown with your instrument or even have just thought about it, you KNOW that’s B.S. Actually, a bass guitar is much smaller than what the majority of passengers carry on board the plane.
And you can’t buy into the rumors that they’ll gladly put your bass in the closet. That works great for going overseas, but on domestic flights, the closet space (if there is any at all) is reserved for first class customers. To be fair, I recently was offered the closet for my bass, although I ended up taking the overhead – but that was a one-in-a-million situation.
Ahhh… the dreaded gate check. If you – and you will – get an airline employee who just insists that there is no way in hell you’re taking your bass on board, they will require you to put a gate check tag on your bag. Be scared, be very scared.
Gate check is simply the act of leaving your priceless instrument in the hands of one of the ramp crew employees waiting for you at the end of the walk to the plane. They then take your instrument outside (come rain, snow or sleet) and stack it on top of the already-packed load under the plane – this makes it easy to pull out for you, and your instrument is returned as soon as you step out of the plane and into the gate ramp.
I’m not a fan of the gate-check, and I generally do what I can to avoid it – even when I am forced to take the gate check tags. Tip: In the picture below, you’ll see how I always have the airline put the gate check tag in the same place on my gig bag so I can hide it between the zippers and zip the tag inside the bag – as soon as the gate crew’s backs are turned. Then, when I get to the bottom of the ramp, it looks as though “I’m cleared” for taking it onboard and no gate check for me!
Musicians want to know that their instruments are safe, and some (like me) need to keep their basses with them. There are probably thousands of times where an instrument was checked in a hard case – maybe even a soft gig bag – and survived the journey in perfect condition; likewise for the gate-check. But since my preference is to keep my axe by my side (or above my head), I’ve got a few theories on what works best.
Let’s step back and consider the psychology of this for a second:
In these times of underwear bombs and flammable shoes, airlines are threatened by anything that doesn’t fit the status quo. They want to see roller boards. Roller boards? What is that, you ask? That’s the standard roller suitcase that you see most people traveling with. Generally, you can fit 4 regular size roller boards in an overhead bin.
With the right gig bag, you can fit your bass, along with 2 roller boards and 3-4 small “squishy” bags around it, in the exact same space. The trick is getting the flight crew to believe it before they see the magic happen. This leads to step 1 of my bass-on-board ritual: carrying the right gig bag.
I’m not going to turn this into a gear shoot-out, and I don’t want to offend any of the manufactures, but there are some bags better suited than others when it comes to carrying your bass on board a plane. I’ve experimented with Undercover, Reunion Blues, Mono and Fodera’s bags – and honestly, I haven’t found any one to be completely perfect for the on-board bass fanatic.
One major thing you must consider with a gig bag is illusion: after all, if the bag looks like it will fit in an overhead, that’s half the battle won. Creating the illusion of a smaller object on your back is crucial. I’ve got every gig bag known to man, and some of them really meet this need well. From sleek design to a more “luggage” look, there are a lot of options when it comes to creating the illusion of a smaller gig bag. And remember, dark colors are slimming!
But in some cases, getting that streamlined look comes at the cost of protection in the event that your bass is gate-checked. I’ve got bags that look very slim and trim, but I cringe at the thought of handing them over to the ramp crew. I am especially wary of construction that is too minimalist or of bags that attempt a one-size-fits all approach, only to leave a bunch of extra space above the neck of the bass.
Like I said, I own a lot of gig bags, and I use them all from time to time. But, as with any good plan, a lot more goes into getting a bass on board than creating the right illusion. Once you’ve chosen your bag, you’ve got to make sure you’ve got somewhere to put it on the plane… and so begins step two: Booking your seats in advance.
Pre-book your seat for rows 25 and back on standard B/737-800/900 planes whenever possible. If you’re in rows 25 and higher, you’ll have full access to tons of bin space. On the other hand, if your seat is in the first 10 rows of the plane, you’ll probably find that precious overhead space hard to come by – and you’ll be more likely to get the dreaded gate check.
Now, if you fly enough and stick to one or two airlines, you can avoid sitting in the back altogether. Gaining (or buying) preferred or elite status with an airline entitles you to early boarding, regardless of your seat assignment. I finally reached this milestone with one airline this year, and now I can sit in the front of the plane and get off quickly at my destination – without sacrificing bin space.
Anyhow, once my flight is booked, I move on to the next step of my flying musician ritual: As soon as I get to my departure gate, I step up to the airline counter and say something nice, have some conversation, with an airline employee. Sounds simple, but kindness is what makes the world go around. Putting some positive vibes in the air and around yourself may not be fail-proof, but it certainly leans the odds just a bit in your favor.
When it comes time to board the plane, DON’T stand up and put your bass on your back! My drummer Chris and myself have experimented with this a lot. Carry your bass vertically, and to the opposing side of the boarding pass check employee. You don’t want to advertise the fact that you have what seems to be a rather large object next to you. A lot of bags have a handle half way up on the neck-end of the bag for carrying vertically – if you’ve got one, using it seems to work well.
And then…. success! You’re on the plane and so is your bass! The ritual doesn’t end here – after all, the plane door is still open, you’re still on the ground, and therefore those gate check tags are still an option for the flight crew. So, I’ll actually stand by the overhead after I put my bass in it and ask the passengers coming down the isle if they need help putting their suitcases overhead. This not only reassures the flight crew that everything is okay, but it also helps me be sure nobody smashes into the side of my bass bag. I’ll actually tell everyone that I’m looking to protect my instrument, and folks almost always reply positively.
Wow – this has been a long article! I want to insist that I am not just ranting and complaining, and I’m not here to endorse one airline or gig bag over another. Instead, I’m hoping this will spur feedback/forums on the subject…. Even though my ideas have come out of a lot of obsessive research and observation, I’m sure we can all learn a trick or two from each other.
Now, get out (in an airplane), and jam with somebody!
Doug
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
