Len_derby

We all intend to keep going. Hopefully, this will just be a temporary break.

This one is primarily, but not exclusively, aimed at those of us who are in the mellow autumn of our years. The partner of our vocalist and band leader had a stroke last week. She’s likely to be in hospital for another few weeks and is likely to need lots of support when she gets home. Consequently, and rightly, we’ve cancelled everything band-wise for the rest of the year. Onwards, we’ll have to see how things go. So, while you are able, do that gig, join that band, buy that bass, climb that mountain. Whatever you want to do, while you can. And, prompted by a recent thread, don’t stick around in that dysfunctional band hoping things will improve.

These.

Well spotted! Passive, obviously.

My bass playing is often described as agricultural.

Lekato for me. Had them for a year and have been fine for the weekend warrior/pub covers band level that I infest.

I’d say more Lennon and McCartney. My Shell, My Belle.

It’s a wonderful thing, language. I think anything that helps a potential audience identify what kind of stuff you’re playing is helpful. I remember, pre-internet going to see bands that I knew nothing about, and couldn’t find out. Sometimes their name gave you a clue, but not always. I’m considering relaunching my acoustic trio as playing Country n’ Sludgebucket.

Although Facebook is mostly irritating nonsense I find it very useful for promoting the two bands I’m in. Also for keeping an eye on venues and other acts working in the same area. About a half dozen times over the last three years-ish we’ve picked up gigs when venues put messages on Facebook for last-minute replacements. I often think that musicians who reject social media either don’t gig or leave all the promotional donkey work to others.

There’s a thread on the Basschat Market Place section called What’s It Worth (or similar). Although, you may need to be a subscribing member to access it.

Almost exclusively now. Mexican Mustang P/J and Squier Jaguar. For acoustic work, a Taylor mini-bass.

I do, Pete. I’ve switched over to short-scale basses almost exclusively so it’s not getting played anymore. I’ll send you a pm.

How about the Yamaha Bex? Let me know if you like what you see or read.

Ah yes, being unforgivably Anglocentric. It’s all those years being told I live in the Midlands!

I hope you bought it at a car park meet-up, Pete, as I did mine. We’re both specialists at that. 😆

Best, and only, purchase this year. A Squier short-scale Jaguar bought on BassChat.

Are you doing the remaining gigs? In your position I’d tell them to stuff it.

Come to lovely, sunny Derby. It’s……..erm……..in the middle. 🤪

it’s how we know it’s you, Pete, and not an imposter.

It’s a very good point by Tim about the demographics of gig attendance. I don’t think it’s only the bigger acts and venues, either. The more modest venues I attend, like the Flowerpot in Derby, seem to be generally filled with people middle-aged an upwards. Going to see live music seems less of a young person thing now.

My suggestion is to take him somewhere where he try as many as possible. In my experience you don’t know what feels and plays ‘right’ until you try it. As a teenager I loved the look of Rickenbackers but when I finally got to try one I didn’t like playing it. A lot of money saved!

Tough one. Using the rule , ‘if you can’t say anything nice don’t say anything at all’, I’d probably keep out of it. However, if asked outright I’d probably start with, ‘I think you could do better’, and see where the conversation goes. He might possibly agree given the opportunity to be frank. Although, if he/they don’t realise things are amiss from the audience reaction, well, they might be beyond help! Good luck.

Also, take a look at the Retrovibe webpage.

Thanks @Richard R. I’ll pencil myself in. Oooer missus.