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Worship Bass With Steve Gregory: One Worship Under a Groove
Meet Steve Gregory –
Groove is a key concept for all bassists to understand and, as we will find out, is especially important to worship bassists. To start things off, let’s play a little game I call, “Groove or No Groove”.
…Watch the following videos and decide for each if the music grooves or doesn’t groove.
1. Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah –
2. Lincoln Brewster and Norm Stockton Jam –
3. Chris Tomlin – Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) –
4. The Isaacs – He Ain’t Never Done Me Nothin’ But Good –
5. Hubn Bubn Polka Band – Line Dance Polka –
OK, have your answers? Since I can’t tally everyone’s responses, here is a set of answers that would not be unusual:
“Steve, easy game, dude! Lincoln and Norm ~g-r-o-o-v-e~! You can feel the groove as soon as the downbeat hits! As for the rest: “Hallelujah Chorus” absolutely does not groove. “Amazing Grace” is a lovely tune, but doesn’t groove. “He Ain’t Never Done Me Nothin But Good” is a great country song, but is a country song, not a groove. And the polka…well, you’re a funny guy, Steve.”
What about your answers? Agree? Disagree? Final answers, please…
What if we consider the possibility that all of these pieces groove?
It has become common, particularly among bass players, to make “groove” synonymous with “funky”. In worship circles, songs that have a strong gospel feel will be labeled as having groove. While music with funk and gospel feels may indeed groove, it is very important to realize that groove is completely independent of musical style, tempo, or meter.
If groove is an independent element, what is it exactly? One definition from Merriam-Webster Online is, “a pronounced enjoyable rhythm”. I’m not sure that captures the meaning of groove completely, so I’ll offer the following:
Groove is the underlying, defining pulse of music that provides a foundation for the rhythmic and melodic elements of a song.
So, back to our quiz: The “Hallelujah Chorus” is certainly not funky; however, there is a strict 4/4 groove that the piece is based on. You can sense the sharp pulse upon which long phrases and staccato accents are laid to create beautiful music. Lincoln and Norm are absolutely in a groove – this one just happens to have a funkier feel (not to mention fantastic bass work by Mr. Stockton!). “Amazing Grace” has a slow tempo, but still has a groove! The pulse can be felt like a heartbeat, which highlights the depth of the music that is following this groove. “He Ain’t Never Done Me Nothin’ But Good” is chock full of groove! Take a look at the people in the audience if you have any doubt that there is groove in that room. Finally, yes, the polka has groove! When you watch the video, notice the movement of the players – they almost can’t help themselves from moving to the groove. They feel the pulse of the music – the groove – and build the rhythms and melodies on top of that pulse.
The game was fun, but there’s actually more to the understanding of groove than word play and semantics. Groove is the underlying pulse that bassists have to understand and feel in order to create bass lines that have musical depth. Groove is everywhere, but many bassists tend to only tap into the groove when the music is interesting to them. Here are four fictitious examples: Song 1 is funky, so there is a deep connection to the groove. The bass lines fit in the pulse, which is felt by the drummer, which creates a pocket for the music to reside. Song 2 is full of static eighth notes playing the roots of chords, so the groove relationship is absent. The lack of this connection makes the music “flat” and weakens the interconnectivity among the group. Song 3 has a bass solo spot, so the groove can’t be stopped. Bassists tend to want solos to sound great, so we instinctively lock into the groove so that we have a home base from which to improvise. Song 4 has 32 measures of rests, 8 measures with whole notes in each, and 64 measures of rests, so why even bother finding the groove? In pieces like this, those 8 measures are often climactic and need to be filled with the groove.
When bassists don’t tap into the groove, another definition from Merriam-Webster Online fits:
Groove: a fixed routine : RUT
This happens in worship all of the time. Worship bassists decide to turn groove on and off depending on whether they like the song, whether the song is exciting to play, whether other musicians enjoy the song, and a plethora of other reasons. Here is the problem with this: the worship bassist isn’t just providing the base for the worship music, but is providing the foundation upon which the entire worship experience rests!
This was brought to my attention on a recent Sunday. We had a song on the set list with which I didn’t connect. I wasn’t feeling the groove and initially my playing reflected this lack of connection. This changed when we started the song and I noticed a woman on the front row. She was singing, dancing, and was absolutely filled with the song! She felt the groove! This song was speaking to her in a way more powerfully than I ever would have thought. I realized that each and every song requires attention to the groove so that the worship experience is built to the fullest.
Groove is powerful! Depression, fear, anxiety, and other negative emotions that someone might carry into the worship service create barriers between that person and the worship. Music that is immersed in the groove can destroy these barriers and let the worship flow freely. In contrast, people can have their joy, happiness, and hope drained when we choose not to tap into the groove and bring our best to worship. It is a responsibility of the worship bassist to hear, understand, and play with the groove on every song, regardless of any other factor!
I’d like to offer a challenge: in the next service you play, tie every single song into the groove. Fill yourself and your playing with the groove regardless of tempo, meter, your like/dislike of the song, or the influence of anyone else. Be the absolute rock upon which the worship rests. If you truly commit to this challenge, I bet that you will experience worship in a way you never have before and your playing will never be the same! In fact, I anticipate that you will receive compliments for the “feel” of your playing. This will happen without changing any notes or tempos, but simply feeling the groove and translating it into your bass lines. Let me know your results – leave a comment or join me in the Bass Musician Magazine Community – I can’t wait to hear what happens!
Until next time, I hope that your bass playing is blessed and that you can bless others through your bass playing!
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
