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Practicing with Lasers by Steven Gregory
It seems obvious: if we want to truly become excellent worship bass musicians, we must practice our craft. However, how to practice (and how to do so effectively and efficiently) is one of the biggest problems in the worship bass world (and often, in the bass world in general). Many of us have had symptoms of inefficient practice:
- Spending hours and hours every day practicing, without much actual improvement.
- Not having enough time to practice regularly.
- Thinking that “cramming” to learn songs for the week is all there is to practice.
- Applying the “practice” label to rehearsals, noodling, warming up, playing the same song you learned 5 years ago…anything other than truly meaningful practice.
- Spending practice time randomly wandering from task to task, with no real direction.
Practice was absolutely a burden for me when I first arrived at Berklee. I had great intentions, but I just didn’t know what to do with my practice time. I spent hours in the practice room where I would start one thing, then move to another, then waste time on a cool lick that I already knew how to play, then snap myself back to run scales for a few minutes…until I was tired, frustrated, and not improving.
This changed when I met Jim Stinnett (http://www.jimstinnett.com), who became my teacher and mentor. Jim is an outstanding bassist and educator who has the uncanny ability to cut straight to the heart of a student’s problem. Jim saw my problem within seconds and prescribed the perfect remedy: laser practicing.
“Laser practicing” is about applying intense focus, without distraction, to your practice. This method, which Jim developed and I will simply pass along, takes care of the aforementioned problems and many, many more. To engage in laser practicing you need a timer, a notebook, items to study, and at least one hour a day to practice.
The basic outline of laser practicing is as follows:
- Determine the areas of study you will practice.
- Divide your time so that every area of study has a “slice” of your total time.
- Start the timer and practice the first area without distraction until the timer goes off.
- Make quick notes about the first area, start the timer again and practice the next area without distraction.
- Repeat until the hour is done.
By using bursts of complete focus, you can cut through problems and make amazing gains, much in the same way that the focus of a laser can cut through material that unfocused light would have no effect on.
Let’s look at an example, using a student named Fred, who has five areas he would like to practice:
- Minor arpeggios
- Walking bass lines
- Slap grooves
- Worship songs for the week
- Sight reading
We will assume that Fred has specific materials for each of these areas, as was directed by his instructor, along with his weekly worship music set. Fred outlines the day’s practice as shown in Example 1:
In Fred’s example, each of these items will get an equal “slice” of the hour, which equals 12 minutes. Fred starts his timer and begins to practice his minor arpeggios around the cycle of 4ths. Complete and total focus is given to the arpeggios – not the other tasks, not the song Fred really likes to play, just the arpeggios. When the timer goes off 12 minutes later, Fred stops immediately, writes some quick notes about the session, then restarts the timer and works on the next area. Fred does this for the remainder of the hour and finishes with a sheet that looks like Example 2:
After a single hour, Fred has truly practiced 5 areas of study and has notes on which he can build his next laser cycle. If Fred has another hour to practice that day, another cycle is started. If Fred only spends one hour a day practicing in this manner, he is absolutely going to see improvements that he would not have experienced by practicing without focus for many more hours.
Laser practicing is a radical departure for many and there are many common questions that arise. Here are few of those questions, with responses:
Q: You’re kidding, right?
A: Nope. I thought it was a nutty idea too, but I encourage you to try it for a couple of weeks. I can promise that it will feel odd and that you will want to ignore the timer, but don’t. The results are worth it!
Q. Do you have to evenly divide the hour?
A. Even divisions work best for beginning laser practice sessions, but that is not a hard and fast rule. You can adjust as needed, but I have found that creating a “slice” that is less than 7-8 minutes or more than 13-14 minutes isn’t effective. You are trying to focus with incredible intensity for each slice, so give yourself enough time to “settle” into that focus, but don’t overextend yourself.
Q. Transcription in laser practicing? That won’t work! I can’t learn the songs for the week unless I set aside a separate session for that.
A. Focus, grasshopper. Without distraction and with intense focus, you can absolutely transcribe music in short bursts.
Q. I don’t have an hour to practice!
A. I said this in front of Jim once, who simply said, “Get up an hour earlier!” We may not like to admit it, but I’m positive that 99% of us can find an hour a day to practice by getting up earlier, staying up late, turning off the television, or some other “trimming” of our schedule. Decide that excellence is worth finding that hour!
Q. Why should I keep notes?
A. Notes are very important to this process. The notes keep you focused and create a record so you can track improvement.
Q. Isn’t stopping one section when the timer goes off incredibly frustrating?
A. It can be, but you can always practice that section again…in the next cycle.
Q. Have you ever used this for a time other than an hour?
A. Yes, but an hour is best. If you have multiple hours, do multiple cycles. When I’ve had an “odd time”, such as 90 minutes, I’ve often done one cycle and then repeated a few of the “slices” for the last 30 minutes. I have used laser practicing to make the very best use of a 30-minute window, as well. Refer to the above question about how you divide the time to make sure you don’t cheat yourself from meaningful “slices”.
Laser practicing truly revolutionized my playing and I hope you will give it a try also. Take your worship, musicianship, and bass playing to the next level with the focus of a laser! Make sure you let me know how it goes by catching me on Twitter (@sgregorybass) or in the Bass Musician Magazine Community.
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
