How to get inspired?

baddarryl

baddarryl

Oct 26, 2008
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#1
Hi all. I am nearing 50 and sometimes get re inspired to play after seeing people. I don't consider myself a good bassist, but I have had players tell me I can play. To me all I have really done is noodled all my life and I have played in a few small local bands but that is it. I am not looking to be a rock star, but the idea of playing out beckons me. I have a Peavey Foundation V and I sound like poopie through an Ibanez practice amp. I haven't really practiced in close to 10 years other than picking it up here and there. I still have kids in the house so time is in short supply. The last time I got inspired I saw Opeth and joined a church band until I quit for personal reasons. I need a spark!
 
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#4
baddarryl said:
Here I am proving that there is no such thing as a stupid question, just stupid people: What do you mean by loopers?
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Loopers are pedals or other such toys that record what you play and then let you play it back in an infinite loop, and subsequently overdub additional sounds on top of the original loop, gradually building a whole arrangement on the fly.

So, you could, say, lay down a tasty bass line, loop it, and then overdub some chords, fills and textures while it plays, maybe drum out a beat, and then solo endlessly over your creation. They’re especially fun if you also plug in extra toys like a microphone or a keyboard, or play through a multieffects unit, allowing you to effectively be a one-man band.

They are things of tremendous joy.

--^@
 
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#7
So I picked it up a little yesterday and more today. Very rusty, my timing, and fingerstyle is off, but that will come. I just played some old crap from memory. I think I will start learning some cover songs just to get some chops back. Might start looking for a better sounding practice amp too. My little 20w Ibanez amp is not going to cut it and unfortunately I sold all my gear a few years ago. Suggestions on the amp? I really just need a good sounding practice amp as I am a ways from getting something to gig with. I mostly dig rock and metal, old and new, but will play anything. Thanks!
 
#8
A 100w Fender Rumble is a pretty decent amp and can compete in a small setting. Around $300 if I recall correctly.

For inspiration, try to learn some songs that you always wanted to play. For me, I really need people o play with/for to get totally inspired - don't want to show up and make an arse of myself by not being prepared. Viola - I'm inspired. I guess that's actually more motivation then inspiration, but it keeps me working.
 
#10
Groove Doctor said:
What are your Goals as a Bass Player?
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To not be embarrassed when I pick up an instrument at the music store and to play out at local bands bars. Classic and hard rock/metal. Build confidence in my playing.

How much Time can you realistically put towards your Goals?
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Realistically an hour a day. Longer on weekends.

Which friends would most help you reach your Goals?
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Maybe a couple now that I think about it. Thank you so much these are questions I really need to ask myself.
 
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#11
One, I would suggest going out to see some shows. Start exploring new artists and go see them in small venues where you can be up close.

Two, if you're not minded to take the whole plunge to starting/joining a band and booking gigs and all, try hitting some local open mics or blues jams. My experience is that they're very supportive, just musicians hanging out and enjoying playing with each other, and they give you a chance to jump in and play new things.
 
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#12
baddarryl said:
To not be embarrassed when I pick up an instrument at the music store and to play out at local bands bars. Classic and hard rock/metal. Build confidence in my playing.


Realistically an hour a day. Longer on weekends.


Maybe a couple now that I think about it. Thank you so much these are questions I really need to ask myself.
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I'd pick 2-3 bass lines/riffs you used to play and enjoyed. Get them to "music store standard" ASAP.

Jam with mates ASAP, listen to & learn songs that they love playing. Focus on learning to play 4-5 songs all the way thru, decent enough standard if your mates dragged you up on stage.

If the practice amp has a socket for headphones, that might improve the sound. Or borrow an amp from your mates & see if you catch the bug again.

Crank your CD's up loud and enjoy it like a kid again.
 
#13
Crank your CD's up loud and enjoy it like a kid again.

That is the point! I ran through several Jane's Addiction songs as well as some Bob Daisley era Ozzy just played along on youtube that I used to know. I like your suggestion about taking a few and owning them. I am itching to jam and am rethinking the amp situation. Probably start looking for something used to gig with. A head and 4*10 or something. In this area there is certainly more work in southern rock and country so I may start learning some of that as well. I guess that will depend on who I can find to jam with.
 
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#14
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