Metal Sludge Gossip Board

And are bassists really just glorified laborers?

no. we are the keepers of the groove, along with the drummer

It's easier than learning the kazoo.

Having been both lead guitar and/or bass in MANY different bands I would list the chances of some one in the band being stupid or an asshole in this order.

#1 FRONTMAN/VOCALIST

#2 DRUMMER

#3 GUITAR

#4 BASS

#5 KEYS

However BASS is the easiest of the instruments to PICK UP AND become acceptable at. The HARDEST to become a VIRTUOSO.

It helps if the Bass player has some idea of what goes into an effective bass line. Sometimes guitarists pick it up and play too many notes. Knowing triads and scales is also useful.

Black Stuff wrote: ↑Sat Feb 10, 2024 3:36 pm no. we are the keepers of the groove, along with the drummer

Truth! We bassists are fucking awesome!

Someone has to make sure the rehearsal space is paid for.

Also, 20 years later when everyone else in the band has changed all of the band-drama stories, someone needs to be the one to actually recall everything objectively.

If you suck, yes.

If you actually take the time to lock in with the drummer and create a groove or pocket, then no.