JPS

I haven't gigged for over a year, but from what I hear, and given the obvious state of the local music scene the average pub gig would probably mean 3 drunken chavs arguing by the fruit machine, a maincally depressed landlord and me wondering why I ever thought joining another band was a good idea.

A playlist of New Orleans soul - Art Neville, Eddie Bo, Meters. Allen Toussaint etc.

Nice one, always good to recognise and savour those milestones and a good reward for all the hard work.

I'm trying to get to grips with the Lemon Song as I've always loved JPJ's playing on this, especially the little fills and subtle variations, however, I'm struggling a bit to be honest and would appreciate any tips on how to approach learning it. I've got a transcription which runs to 12 pages which I can read easily enough, however, I obviously can't play and turn the pages. I've thought about trying to memorise but am not sure my ageing brain is up to the task. I never tried to learn such a long piece of sheet music before so would greatly appreciate any suggestions or tips on how to break it down, organise it etc. Cheers and Merry Christmas. JPS

I assume the parlous economic state is having a knock on effect i.e. less gigs to go round, less bands being formed etc. Us "musicians" aren't always the most grounded group of people either it has to be said.

Am I right in thinking that a lot of early jazz soloists used the melody of the tune as their starting point and then embellished it in some way, e.g. rhythmically, harmoncially etc?

I must admit I'm finding it harder than ever to find a band. Don't know if that's my age (I'm 42), the economic climate taking its toll, or me having unrealistically high standards - i.e. wanting to play with people who can actually play, stay sober and display a vaguely professional approach (e.g. turn up on time, learn the songs, rehearse occasionally that sort of thing). Of course I could just be rubbish and socially dysfunctional! Down here - in East Kent - the only options appear to be metal, classic rock, or twentysomethings playing originals influenced by the Kings of Leon.

This is a really inspiring thread. I haven't played much for months now due mainly to a lack of a band, feeling a bit sorry for myself generally, however, reading many of the above comments has made me realise just how much music means to me and what a huge part of my life (and me) playing the bass is. Time to get back on it methinks!

Kid by The Pretenders. First song I ever played live so I thought it was time to relearn it.

Today in no particular order. John Entwistle Bruce Foxton Duck Dunn James Jamerson Bruce Thomas All united by the fact that they managed to play interesting bass lines that made a huge contribution to a host of great songs. On another day might be Danny Thompson, Andy Rourke or Paul McCartney.

Baggy Trousers - Madness Dear Prudence - The Beatles Neither very difficult obviously, just songs I've loved for a long time so finally got round to learning them, also helps keep the playing ticking over whilst I try and find another band.

Solid player, flexible and quick learner. Decent gear and own transport. Looking for good covers band to play new wave, 2-Tone/Ska, indie, soul, blues, 60s classics etc.

I'm finding harder than ever to find a half-decent band to join/help establish. I'm far from a virtuso but never cease to be amazed by how delusional some "musos" are in terms of their ability, the effort and commitment needed to get/keep a band going etc. I wouldn't trust some of them to sit on the toilet the right way round, let alone be a functioning, contributing member of a band! The whole business of advertising and auditioning is proving a tad painful. I wonder that percentage of new bands ever get to the gigging stage, let alone sustain it?

Thanks guys, appreciate it. I've pretty much got a few key phrases down i.e. the start and finish! Apart from that a bit of "freeform noodling" high up the neck in E seems to do the trick.

Cheers Daz that helps a lot. I've just managed to work out a rough version that frankly probably pass muster in the Dog & Duck on a Friday night but your tab feels in a few gaps. Looks like I will basically have to learn to "sing it" and then try and reproduce it. Thanks again.

I normally do what most guitarist friends of mine do - slap on a ton of overdrive and using the A minor pentatonic, play the only 3 licks I know, as fast as I can, whilst gurning furiously obviously.

I once played a local charity gig, the audience consisting mainly of local dignitaries/big wigs etc. All going fairly well until the guitarist introduces the next song with tasteful line "this one is Michael Jackson's favourite song - Messin with the Kid". What might work in certain busy, drunken pubs on a Friday night understandably didn't go down so well with the local MP, the Mayor and the representatives of the children's charity we were supporting.

Has anyone got any good tips for learning the short outro section that's played in quite a high register? I've got to learn it for Saturday morning and would appreciate any help/short cuts as I've also got another dozen or so songs to learn by then. Great song and would be nice to do it (some) justice. Thanks JPS

Older stuff (i.e. "jazzier" and from the late 60s onwards) like Grant Green, Jimmy Smith, Lonnie Smith, Boogaloo Joe Jones, Brother Jack McDuff etc also gets labelled as acid jazz sometimes. Lots of Hammond organ combos etc.

Many thanks Bilbo, as an added bonus I already own two of those recordings as well. Cheers.

I'm feeling brave and have decided to have a go at transcribing my first jazz bass line and wondered if anyone could recommend a good starting point. Ideally I'd like something with a fairly straightforward rhythm i.e. walkin in 4s etc, that's not long and where I've got a fighting chance of hearing the bass. Any advice/suggestions greatly appreciated. Cheers JPS

Pros Can be quite good money (although you have to take into account all the prep etc involved). Might improve you as a player. Can get to play some nice/interesting venues. Playing to a lively crowd is a good buzz Satisfaction of a job well done etc. Excuse to buy more gear. Time away from family. Cons Can very long days/hours. Having to play songs you detest. Having to play songs you love and realising after a while that you now detest them as well. Time away from family. Boorish drunks and overly demanding bridezillas. Lots of waiting around. Lots of preparation and organising pre-gig. Realising that it's a Saturday night and there's lots of things you'd rather be doing. I did it for five years, largely enjoyable, some real highs, but ultimately became utterly jaded and bored by it to the extent where I rarely play bass anymore, have no desire to join another band etc. On the bright side I now enjoy listening to music a lot more than I have done for years.

The function band I played in until last year used to play a pub gig every few weeks. We found that they were great for inviting prospective clients along to watch us. Firmed up a lot of gigs that way. In fairness we had to choose the right sort of pub as most happy couples don't apreciate being caught up in a ten man brawl, or spending an evening in an empty pub with one pissed man and his dog for company. If the pub is busy though and you go down well it can be a great advert, provided of course you make it clear you can tailor your setlist/appearance etc to a wedding/formal party etc. Also good fun for the band and a useful way to try out new covers.

I've used a Hartke Kickback 15 for a few years. Really cuts through and very reliable. Can't fault it and like you say great value as well.

Brilliant track and bassline. You've got me trying - and failing miserably - to play it now.