[quote name='Marvin' post='1292284' date='Jul 4 2011, 03:22 PM']Am I jealous of slappers? No. I just don't bother listening to it much, it doesn't do a lot for me. The occasional slap or pop can add a little spice, but continuous string bashing gets annoying.[/quote]
Slap was originally (I believe) invented as a rhythmic technique. However, if I had one criticism of the Clutterbucks of this world it would be that they make little attempt to integrate melody or harmony into their "slap" playing. THis is what makes it impressive in small doses but ultimately unfulfilling to listen to.
Marcus Miller is far more melodic, and even Wooten almost plays tunes on slap bass. But the crucial element of "taste" is sometimes missing, even from these admirable virtuosi.
I don't really get jealous of musicians. Wherever they have got to, if they got there through talent and sheer hard work, good luck to them. If they just happen to have the right face in the right place at the right time, but limited talent - good luck to them.
Life's too short to say "Life's too short". But it is. Too short, that is.