Practical Bass

Paul and Dave explore neck finish, and how easy it is to get rid of gloss for a faster, smoother feel. Show notes Types of finishes Glossy Often polyester for modern instruments Nitrocellulose lacquer in some, esp. older Satin or matte Tung oil or Linseed oil Bare wood?!? What kind …

Tax time is rough for everyone, especially musicians. Here’s how to plan now for less stress over taxes later. Show notes Disclaimer: We’re not tax professionals, we encourage you to consult one! Dave tells his story about taxes this year People who just don’t figure in their musical work Cash …

How did we manage to spend even more time recording together over the season break, and still like each other? VaMos band recorded here at the home studio It was serious enough Paul finally named the studio Dave — Describe the project and the goals Dave, what were you most …

Dave and Paul discuss the upcoming season starting in May 2018. Season Two of Practical Bass will begin Wednesday May 2, 2018. We have new and interesting episodes lined up, but we’re also excited to get your input on subjects you’d like to hear us tackle on the podcast. Contact …

Revisiting some of the highlights from earlier in Season One. This episode marks the end of Season One of Practical Bass. Dave and I have enjoyed every minute of bringing you the best tips and discussion about the business and practice of being a bassist. This episode collects some of …

Here are some tips on how to keep from dealing with cable spaghetti at gigs, and keep your sound rocking. Tell me a story about badly run cables! Dave Floor level stage area, a sloppily placed XLR cable, and a dancer who exited the dance floor…with my mic…and stand. Paul …

Different pickup choices are what make electric bass exciting. How do they affect your sound? Do you have a favorite pickup configuration? Dave I lean toward Precision but mostly prefer having the options of a P/J combo Paul How do pickups work, anyway? They’re transducers, meaning they change one kind …

Music is a business. Business thrives on the contract. Why are contracts so tricky at the local level? Have you ever had the issue of a contract sink a gig? Dave: Well, I’ve lost a gig because bar owner wouldn’t agree to the contract – too wordy Paul: Once, yes. …

Keep yourself, your bandmates, and your gear safe and sound at gigs. What’s an unsafe situation you’ve been in at a gig? Dave: There was a rough venue that allowed byob – shoes and shirts optional kind of place One couple REALLY didn’t like our music Paul: One night post-gig… …

Bass is tricky for on-stage sound. How do you avoid getting lost in the mix? Let’s define it… What does it feel like to be lost in the mix? Dave: It feels like waking up in the middle of the night to make a PB&J sandwich but you forget to …