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When Elvis Goes One Way by Steve Gregory
Meet Steve Gregory –
The other day, I heard a recording of an Elvis performance that went horribly, horribly wrong. The band went one direction, “the King” went another, and chaos ensued. The struggle to get everyone on the same page continued for almost a minute before the implosion was complete and the show ground to an abrupt halt. Listening with “sympathetic musician ears”, I couldn’t help but cringe as I sensed the “what do we do now?” feeling. I suspect we have all had situations that range from hitting a wrong note, to going to a wrong song section, to things just going plain wrong.
As worship bassists, we are most certainly not immune to things going awry, whether it is something we play on our instrument or something that affects us in the group dynamic. To add weight to the situation, worship bassists provide the foundation upon which the worship setting – the worship setting many in our congregations and worship teams rely upon – is developed. To be a successful worship bassist, it is necessary to think about our responsibilities and how we can best uphold those responsibilities when things don’t go as planned. Here are a few thoughts on defending against problems before they occur, gracefully getting out of bad situations when they do happen, and learning from our experiences:
1. Preparation is the very best defense against things going wrong in worship.
This may seem obvious, but preparation is critical. First, if we don’t know our bass parts, and I mean really know our parts, we really shouldn’t be surprised when things go wrong. Spend time with your music before you stand in front of the church! Practice your music at home, rehearse your music at rehearsals, and perform the music in worship. These three steps are all separate and are not interchangeable. Trying to “get” the music once you are performing in worship is a recipe for disaster.
Second, we are bass musicians, not just bass players. That means that we should also know details about each piece of music, such as:
- The chords of the song, not just the bass line.
- Other musicians’ parts of the song.
- Whether there is a loop or a track that controls lighting, etc.
- Any potential “gotchas” that need special attention.
- The lyrics to the song.
- The “landmarks” in the song – whether in our part, others’ parts, or in the song as a whole.
At first glance, it may seem that preparation is only useful for stopping problems from happening in the first place. While proper preparation does prevent many problems, it is also important for getting us out of difficult situations when they do arise, as we’ll talk about below.
2. Playing a wrong note isn’t great, but making a wrong note into a bigger problem than it needs to be is much worse.
Let’s consider a song that has a tempo of 120 BPM. At that tempo, a quarter note will sound for ½ of a second. This is not a long time in the ear of a listener; however, if we take that ½ of a second and prolong it by not correcting ourselves or playing other wrong notes because of panic, then we have a big problem. Your audience most likely won’t pay much attention to a ½ second oddity, but may be distracted by subsequent fumbling.
When you do hit a note other than the one you mean to play, quick decision making is the key. If you can move on, by all means – move on. For example, in a measure of eighth notes on A, if you hit the first note as a G#, fix it on the second eighth note and leave the errant note behind. If you hit a note that is more exposed, immediately decide on a fix and go for it. This depends largely on context, but you may need to move immediately to the right note or develop a line that passes to the right note. This is where preparation comes in – knowing chord structures, song form, and other instruments’ parts is critical. Combine your musical understanding of the song with the desire to keep the flow of worship undisrupted and you will make sound decisions.
3. When you are at the bridge, the vocalist is at the chorus, and nobody knows where the saxophonist is, you have some decisions to make.
Any time you find yourself in a “where in the world are we?” situation, your ear is your friend, panic is not. Similar to the situation above, you must apply your musicianship and the goal of providing uninterrupted worship together to find your way out of a difficult situation.
There are a few situations in which the band dynamic becomes unstable that we should consider:
- You lose your place: be calm and aware. Open your ears and play simply as you find your center, using your ear training to find chord roots and the basic bass line. Work to find your place by listening for any landmarks (you mapped these out in preparation, right?). Remember to stay in rhythm, rather than flailing wildly in a note search – panic is a groove-robber! Rely on your skills, remain calm, and you will fall back into place.
- One other person in the group loses their place: be a leader and help the other person find their way. If you have a landmark that will help them, put a bit of extra emphasis on it. If simplifying your line for a few bars will pull them back in, do it. Decide how you can continue worship and help your brother or sister at the same time!
- There’s more than one person lost: be a worship bass musician. If you can lead, as with the example where one person is lost, step forward and lead. Understand your situation and be the center and foundation. Dropping to a pedal line to outline the section might be the perfect thing to bring people home. Emphasize your landmarks and keep the groove going.
If someone else takes the clear lead, be willing to follow and support. For example, the worship leader may define the section they want everyone to play. In this case, gracefully move to the new section, keep your ears open, and keep worship flowing.
A quick note about this situation: if you have prepared, know the song inside and out, know the form, and know without a doubt that you should be on section X, but the worship leader or another musician takes the group to section Y, your job is not to be right, it’s to provide worship. An immature worship bass musician needs their ego stroked by being right, a mature worship bass musician knows that the priority is worship, above all else.
4. Post-game review isn’t just for sports locker rooms.
I believe that one of the greatest teachers is a recording of your playing, listened to with a critical ear. When you listen, be willing to be open and honest about your successes and your mistakes. In either situation, ask yourself why they happened and how you can either repeat them (successes) or fix them (mistakes). If you are willing to be really honest about what you hear on the playback, your playing will experience exponential growth when you implement changes based on your observations.
Most of the time, our worship playing isn’t going to be plagued by problems and challenges. Many times we prepare, rehearse, and worship without experiencing difficulty. However, problems can and will arise; when they do, the worship bass musician has a responsibility to be prepared to deal with the situation and to keep worship going!
I would to love to hear your thoughts in the comments below: what situations have your found yourself in? How did you remedy them? What have you learned from the experiences?
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
