WishICouldWalk

What a great tip! All you have to do is play a scale up from the root of the 5 over the 2 chord, then by the time the 5 chord is being played, you're playing the 3rd of the 5 chord and hence getting away from both roots and having a much smoother sounding line. It's also something a relative newbie to jazz like me can just about get his head around while playing the changes. Brilliant!

It's all interesting stuff. I find myself relying a lot on chromatic leading notes either above or below the root of the target chord. I think the problem with this approach is in bebop for example, where you've got loads of 2 chord bars, it can make the line a bit jumpy. When I listen to experienced jazz bassists, they seem to effortlessly weave very melodic lines through the harmony. The other thing is how they respond to 'out there' piano voicings. They just seem to be able to target the right notes to complement the piano. I think it's down to having a great ear and knowing the harmony of a tune so well that they don't even have to think about it. I've got a long way to go!

Got some double bass strings off Bill. I'd say he's totally trustworthy. He kept me updated on the status of the sale. Highly recommended. Isaac.

[quote name='TPJ' post='1308824' date='Jul 19 2011, 09:33 AM']Good stuff, welcome to the wonderful world of DB There are some good low tension strings out there, Innovation make a variety, Velvet do some but can be pricey, Presto lights which are synthetic strings. Maybe Spiro lights if you want to use steel strings. Depends on the tone you're after and pickup choice if you use one. Might be worth finding a DB teacher and get a few lessons. This will help you get a sound fondation for your technique and help limit injury. Try a search in the DB here section or look through the topic titles and you should be able to find out what string for what tone you're after. Also, Talkbass has an extensive DB section that's worth a looksie.[/quote] Thanks for that. I've booked a lesson and hopefully the teacher can give me some advice. At present I can barely get round a chorus of rhythm changes without my forearm getting too fatigued to continue!

Hello folks. I've been bought a 3/4 upright bass as a present. I love it - sounds fantastic. Only problem is, it's sooo much more demanding on the fingers. Any recommendations for a nice easy string to play jazz? Also, what would be considered a low action? Thanks, Isaac.

I just sold my EBS Microbass preamp to Mike in Estonia. I can confirm he's a reliable guy to deal with. Shipping to Estonia was no issue either. All in all, an A+ transaction. Best, Isaac.

[quote name='bubinga5' post='331203' date='Nov 18 2008, 01:52 AM']Oh my favorite Cog shorty, on my favorite album.......I know that feeling..it really depends on where ur minds at..Incognito are great.im always blown away by Randys playing..Julians good too.managed to get Tales from the Beach down the other day, from the new album...Jacobs ladder from 100 degrees and rising is very difficult though..hes a special bass player.. Good on you, Solar Fire is fast and fluid. Randys on fire on that one.. [/quote] Hope-Taylor and Crampton are amazing. I blame to two of them for getting me hooked on cheese!

I'd say a taste for jazz is well worth acquiring.

Wondering whether I should bring myself back down to earth by recording myself?

Ever get one of those days when you're blown away by your own playing? I've just sat down and started working out Solar Fire by Incognito - it's a jazz funk encyclopedia in one tune! Anyway, I can't believe I'm pulling off the lines! Have to milk these elusive veins of form for what they're worth!