Mykesbass

Not sure what's new on the market, but when I had my Shuker built (2011) there was very limited availability for 5 string P pickups. Went with Nordstrand which I think is fabulous. Quick Google shows there does seem to be a bit more choice now, but certainly put the Nordstrand on your list.

[quote name='Hobbayne' timestamp='1487283252' post='3238710'] I was a big fan of The Truth in the early 80's. They rose from the ashes of Nine Below Zero after their split. They never really made it that big, although they did get on Top Of The Pops with this. Any one recall it? [/quote] Recall it? Used to be in a band at school with the drummer 😊

Working Week are a big favourite of mine - not sure how well they are known, probably same sort of level as Horslips, or Gordon Giltrap, although musically poles apart.

Yes, the FL are the lower tension.

[quote name='Grangur' timestamp='1487101243' post='3237159'] Now, now, lets not get personal. I wonder what you'd look like when you're 300 years old and sliced up Isn't the one on the left male and the one on the right female? [/quote] Biology not a strong point Rich? It's all in the hips...

Faces

I have a DSL 3.5" strap that is nicely padded and feels very comfortable. Bass is not quite as heavy as yours, but not lightweight. I see they also do a 5" version. Really nice quality, but not cheap.

[quote name='Shambo' timestamp='1486991810' post='3236050'] Thanks Mykesbass. I nearly bought your Seafoam Green bitsa, [/quote] Actually, they might be a good source for your maple neck - build your own guitar, US website, but great delivery and decent price for a Fender Licensed neck.

Surf Green of course...

The NHS Direct website has some good exercises that helped me. Still get twinges, but mine has got a lot better.

[quote name='bubinga5' timestamp='1486930607' post='3235691'] He always brightened my day with his music. [/quote] This one always makes me smile.

Bought an MXR 82 from Andy. Sorted out a convenient rendezvous, which I think was more convenient for me than him. Cracking pedal and a good guy to do business with. Thanks Andy. Mike

[quote name='stingrayPete1977' timestamp='1486931140' post='3235700'] what does it matter if it's a competition [/quote] Who judges, and what do they judge? It's all opinion, that's my main beef, and when it comes to these things, often opinion is swayed by the wrong thing - ridiculously great technique, speed, showmanship. But hey, I must stop being glib

[quote name='j4ck' timestamp='1486929810' post='3235682'] Right, I really wasn’t trying to be contentious, but glib responses such as this contribute little. I did say to “promote and encourage aspiring bass players” - it’s not as if I’m suggesting Britain’s Got Bleedin’ Talent? Unless you’ve never auditioned a fellow musician, or indeed been auditioned, the industry is inherently competitive. The two competitions I mentioned, by reputation, do seem to serve the drumming community rather well, especially as they seek to attract young drummers – always a good thing, and female drummers – of which there are disappointingly few. Jack [/quote] I didn't think you were being contentious, and there is absolutely nothing glib about my response. How the hell do you compare Bob Babbit with Victor Wooten, Chas Hodges with Mark King, Robbie Shakespeare with Adam Clayton? You can't. There's a great competition on at the moment, the 6 Nations. Enjoy that for what it is, enjoy music for what it is. Oh, and auditions are completely different for a competition in that a player is being assessed for a specific role, not to be judged as "The Best". So, glib, no. Passionate about how music should be treated, enjoyed and nurtured, yes.

Funny how colours go in and out of fashion - natural (at least Fender style) basses are a bit like white cars were 10 years ago. Coming along nicely, and ahead of the crowd!!

Because music shouldn't be a competition?

That's really upsetting - saw him at the Apollo, Victoria when I was 16/17. Wonderful musician.

[quote name='PaulWarning' timestamp='1486904463' post='3235362'] but really I was just trying to make sense of some of the suggestions [/quote] That'll keep you awake at night!!

[quote name='Barking Spiders' timestamp='1486722347' post='3234055'] Tears of a clown - The Beat Take me to the river - Talking Heads Respect yourself -The Kane Gang Dear Prudence - Siouxsie ATB Walk on by - Stranglers My way - Sid Vicious You really got me - Van Halen Summer breeze - Isleys Aint that a shame -Cheap Trick Money's too tight to mention and It's only love - Simply Red Thank you falletin me be mice elf again - Magazine War - Frankie GTH ....for starters [/quote] You should start your own compilation series - Now That's What I Call Cloth Ears - some dreadful choices there 😲

The other element that many of those you listed probably would have struggled with is the idea of music being a competition.

No, but my new trumpet player's son does the original versions

Here's to a long and happy retirement to one of the all time greats.

[quote name='Mickeyboro' timestamp='1486758508' post='3234449'] Mind you isn't your first video song Derek and the Dominos? Sheesh, bloody covers bands👿 [/quote] Well that's a bit embarrassing as I'm on record here as the heretic who can't stand them!!