“A Bass That Will Make You Shake. The Benefits Of Adding A Bass To Your Instrument Lineup.”
The bass guitar is one of the most important instruments in music. Not only is it an integral part of the rhythm section, it also adds an extra layer of melody, punch and resonance to any performance. With so many shapes, sizes and types available, there’s a bass out there to suit every style, mood and stage presence. So, let’s take a look at the benefits of adding a bass to your instrument lineup, and the different basses available.
Firstly, the bass guitar is the foundation of any rhythm section. Whether it’s accompanying a singer, a blues band or supporting a jazz quartet, the bass guitar is responsible for providing a strong, solid underpinning to the music, keeping everything together and carrying the beat. As the bass lines create the groove and the mood, they can be dialled up or down accordingly to create different passages, almost like a producer or arranger.
The bass also adds a variety of interesting additional tones to any mix. Through using a range of techniques and effects, improvisation, chords and melodies, the bass can add a unique texture to the overall sound of a band. Think funk, reggae, jazz, blues and modern pop – without the bass, many of the popular sub genres just wouldn’t exist!
When it comes to choosing a bass guitar, there’s a huge selection of different styles and sizes available, from traditional 4 string basses to more contemporary models with more strings, different scale lengths and electronics, like active pickups and preamps. Additionally, for electric basses, there’s plenty of different pickup configurations that can be adjusted to suit different sounds and playing styles.
If you’re new to playing bass, the most popular model style is the 4 string bass. This is what many people will start out with, as the string spacing is slightly wider than the 6 and 8 string basses and the frets have less bends, making it easier to play. The standard 4 string bass – or electric bass – is also the most commonly used bass guitar in popular music.
For more experienced players, the 6 string bass is where the real fun begins! Slightly bigger than a standard 4 string bass and with a slightly longer scale lengths, the 6 string bass offers a wider range of tones, extended range and increased chord options. Additionally, the 6 string bass is great for electric slap-style playing and creating unique melodies.
Finally, there’s the 8 string bass, for those looking for the extra range and tones. The 8 string is a unique instrument combining the special capabilities of a 6 string bass combined with an extra low B string for a wider range of tones as well as being able to play chords and poly-rhythms. If you want an extra rich, vibrant sound, then the 8 string is a great choice.
So, regardless of what kind of music you play, there’s a bass out there somewhere to suit you, your budget and your individual style. With the right bass in hand, you can add your own signature to any track, and create the perfect soundscape for your bandmates. Ultimately, having a bass guitar in the band means more possibilities and opportunities for creativity, improvisation, fun and funk – and that’s an instrument you just can’t ignore.