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The Devil Ain’t in the Details by Steve Gregory
Meet Steve Gregory –
Have you ever heard a song that you know well, performed in a way that made you feel like something was lacking? I am sure that most of us have heard a cover band play a song that we recognize, yet it feels as if something is not quite right. In these situations, the bassist may be playing “correctly”, but the performance leaves us feeling flat. This same problem exists in worship and plagues worship bassists. In these situations, the congregation hears a song that they have learned from an album or radio, yet something is off. Even when the band and the bassist appear to be “into it”, there is something that drains the worship experience. What is this terrible malady? Lack-of-attention-to-details-itis!
If a worship bassist rushes through a song, without paying attention to details, the congregation will absolutely notice. Worse yet, people will not experience deep, meaningful worship; rather, they will be distracted by the unsettled feeling we have described. The role of the worship bassist is to support worship and by not focusing to details our playing can divert attention from, not enhance, worship.
To illustrate what I mean by “paying attention to details” let’s look at the song, “Our God” by Chris Tomlin, which is found on the album “Passion: Awakening”. This song is not difficult (at least on the surface) and is exactly the type of song that bassists view as “simple” and often play without really digging into the details. First, the basic transcription:
A pretty simple song, right? The bass line is not overly challenging and never becomes more difficult rhythmically than basic eighth note figures. As far as notes go, the A# on the fourth measure of the chorus creates a nice tension that releases in the second half, while the D# in the third measure of Instrumental 2 is important. Looking at the rhythms, we can see the rhythmic intensity increase steadily throughout the song. The most noticeable whole band rhythm occurs in the Instrumental 2 sections, where the pattern starts on the second eighth note, instead of the “1”.
Playing this bass line as it is reflected on the page creates a performance that is correct, but lacking in depth. What details can we discover that adds to the music and deepens the performance? Let’s look at the next markup of the transcription.
If you pay attention to kick drum patterns, not only will you make your drummer happy, you will also be adding a detail to the music that creates real depth. In this markup, the kick drum is noted with a carat (^) underneath the bass line. The synchronicity between the bass line and the kick drum is obvious. Use this detail to your advantage: pretend that the beater of the kick drum makes two sounds happen: the drum and your bass note. My drummer and I have played this song and had a lot of fun with this, especially the small details such as the pattern found in the second chorus. The note on the “and” of 3 creates incredible, yet gentle propulsion to build into the first instrumental. The seemingly simple idea – analyzing the music to see where the kick drum and bass line match so that a rhythmic unity is created – makes a huge difference. The bass line becomes “connected” and the groove deepens. Does anyone in the congregation really know that you are placing special effort into understanding the bass-kick drum relationship? No – but they will feel the difference!
Now that we’ve added a level of detail, let’s add another layer.
Dynamics are, in my opinion, one of the most often overlooked musical elements in worship music today. Many times there are only two dynamic levels: Loud and Soft. These levels are then stereotypically applied to create the thought that Loud = Happy/Intense and Soft = Thoughtful/Contemplative. The “two option” dynamics system strikes me as both lazy and insulting to the listener. Further, I am positive that the use of dynamics creates a sense of depth that can be felt by the listener. As a bassist, we have the power to control the dynamics in a song. When you are working with musicians who listen well, the bassist can drive the entire band to raise and lower the dynamic level. To do this effectively, the bassist has to understand the dynamic structure of a song.
“Our God” thrives because of the dynamics! If we create a chart that maps each section’s dynamics, we can see a “big picture” overview of the song. Look at the overall shape in the figure below:
“Our God” – dynamics overview
From this overview, important details are seen. First, the song increases in dynamic level in a routine step-wise fashion from the intro through the second chorus. At this point, there is a dramatic steady rise, ultimately ending in the first instance of Instrumental 2. This rise should be steady and build in intensity until it explodes in the instrumental. After this first release, the music drops slightly to allow for the final tension-release cycle to occur, completing when Instrumental 2 is played again. Notice that immediately after the second instance of Instrumental 2 the dynamic drops suddenly to allow Chris Tomlin and the congregation to sing without the band.
The effect is stunning. The song grows slowly at first, but then builds the intensity to a fever pitch through the long climb to the first Instrumental 2 instance. This intensity is felt by the congregation and creates a noticeable tension that releases and allows the congregation to sing, dance, clap, and worship completely. The drop into the outro from the fortissimo instrumental leaves room in aural space to allow the congregation to be engulfed in worship without the band continuing. These dynamics take the notes and rhythms of the basic bass line and add a layer of meaning to them. Dynamics, in this case, breathes life into the bass performance.
By adding attention to details, the bass performance can be enhanced greatly; however, when bassists first consider this approach, two common arguments arise. The first argument is that analysis such as the one presented in this article is too time consuming and it is impossible for the worship bassist, needing to prepare 4 or 5 songs per week, to do. I would counter by saying this: adding attention to details, like everything else with the bass, has to be practiced. By doing this consistently, analyzing the details becomes second nature. When you activate this part of your bass musicianship, you listen and play differently and your playing is taken to another level. The second argument I have heard is that analysis drains feeling from playing. My response to this is simple: nothing could be further from the truth. There is a quote that I have heard attributed to both Charlie Parker and Miles Davis, which I will paraphrase here: in order to completely “feel” a song, you have to study and learn a song with incredible intensity and then “forget” it. In other words, by paying attention to details, the song opens up before you and you have freedom to play your bass lines in way in which you never have before, with incredible ease.
For “Our God”, I analyzed the kick drum-bass relationship and the dynamics. These areas were chosen only because these details jump out as important for the bass performance of this song. We could have looked into tone, the length and attack of notes, and many other aspects. For each song you perform areas of detail that demand attention will become obvious. These are the area on which to focus.
Pay attention to the details so that you can take your bass playing to the next level. I would love to hear how you apply these ideas! What songs are you playing and what areas of detail do you think are important? Let me know by joining me in the Bass Musician Magazine community or by leaving me a comment here. I can’t wait to hear what you find!
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
