Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The SBL Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 208 - The LEGENDARY Bass Lines of Nathan East | 19 Nov 2025 | 01:02:18 | |
Here it is — the full, uncut conversation between Scott and the one and only Nathan East. Nathan opens up about the sessions and stories that shaped his career, from laying it down for Barry White and Hubert Laws to hitting the road with Phil Collins, Eric Clapton, and countless others. It’s a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most recorded bassists in history. Dive in and enjoy. | |||
| 207 - The Top 10 Funk Bass Lines (According to Reddit) | 21 Oct 2025 | 01:13:31 | |
Scott and Ian take on Reddit’s picks for the Top 10 Funk Bass Lines. From the undeniable classics to a few surprises they’ve never played before, they dig into what makes these lines so iconic—and whether Reddit really nailed it. Tune in and see if your favorites made the cut! Enrollment for our brand new FUNK Accelerator open now! —Sign Up Today | |||
| 197- Slap Bass Tone (6 Things Everybody Does WRONG) | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:41:32 | |
Think your slap sound is dialed in? Think again. Whether you're just getting into slap or trying to fine-tune your sound, this one's worth a listen. Fixing just one of these might change everything. | |||
| 107 - What I learned from recording my album - Part 1 - The Gear | 18 Sep 2023 | 00:37:41 | |
Back in May, we went to the studio to record the first SBL album project. Originally it was going to be a pretty straightforward release… but having read through a bunch of comments, we decided to change things up. In today’s episode, I reveal some key takeaways from that first studio session, what you can expect over the coming weeks, and how you could win the bass I used to record with! In this podcast you're going to learn:
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| 106 - Bass cab roundup! / Scott giving away his FAVORITE BASS?! | 11 Sep 2023 | 00:56:38 | |
What a stupid question, right? As bass players, there are few things more satisfying than pulling the trigger on a new bass, but would we be better served expanding our amp collections instead? Will a new amp really make your bass sound any better? In today’s episode Ian and Scott talk you through a couple of different viewpoints that will help you determine how you might spend your hard-earned money. A new bass, or a better amp? In this podcast you're going to learn:
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| 105 - Emergency Episode... All your burning questions | 04 Sep 2023 | 00:52:37 | |
There’s a reason more people listen to Guns N’ Roses than Victor Wooten, and it’s not because Duff McKagan is better at playing arpeggios! But still, good technique is something that every bassist should add to their skill set, and in this episode, I’m answering all of your questions surrounding our Technique Accelerator. I hope it gives you a little extra time to check out the course – and to find your next breakthrough on the bass! In this interview you're going to learn:
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| 104 - Demystifying the DI / Ian SUCKS at reading / Have Short Scales FINALLY had their 15 Minutes?! | 28 Aug 2023 | 01:04:59 | |
In this week’s episode, Ian tells us about his experience playing with a full orchestra and navigating the social and musical intricacies he encountered, including confronting his imposter syndrome around classical musicians, the challenges of reading standard notation perfectly and everything in between. Additionally, he goes on to break down the basics of what you need to know around DI’s - Direct Inputs! In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 103 - Drama in the Bass Community / Why Technique is Important / Scott loses the bass of a lifetime | 22 Aug 2023 | 01:11:18 | |
We love the bass community and will always maintain that it is THE best community in music to be a part of. BUT. Every now and then even our community members show an uglier side. In the world of content and running (online) businesses in particular, garnering hate online is almost too easy and, unfortunately, we did have a bit of a run-in with just that a little while ago. But, lessons can be learned in every scenario and we hope you’re able to take away as much from this as we did! In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 102 - What if it ISN'T a Fender? Scott Abandons the P bass! Technique is EVERYTHING! | 18 Aug 2023 | 01:13:31 | |
Are Fenders really the best option, especially when you’re looking to play professionally? Maybe not? In today’s podcast, we’re exploring why your bass doesn’t HAVE to be a Fender and some alternatives that can come close in sound and vibe. AND why you may not want a Fender style instrument at all! Is there such a thing as the perfect sound? The perfect bass? Can you love a sound on someone else but not yourself? Does it, in fact, actually all come down to technique, rather than the bass you’re playing?! In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 101 - Is he playing the MOST HISTORIC gig ever?! Amos Heller | 10 Aug 2023 | 01:33:39 | |
A veteran of the Nashville studio scene, Amos Heller has occupied the bass chair for Taylor Swift’s backing band The Agency since 2007. Whether you’re a Taylor Swift fan or not, when Amos agreed to check in with SBL after the record-breaking Eras tour, we knew we were in for one of our most fun and entertaining interviews to date!
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| 100 - The Truth About Tone Wood / Getting Into Bass Building / Purchasing A Cheap Bass | 03 Aug 2023 | 01:59:42 | |
We were delighted to welcome Wil DeYoung, Carey Nordstrand, Spencer Lull and Joe Zon at our luthier panel discussion at Bass Space 23 this year. The session was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the summit and a true pleasure to attend, as four masters of the field dug into all of the different aspects of being a bass builder. In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 99 - Ra Diaz: The Blueprint to Getting the Gig | 27 Jul 2023 | 01:04:37 | |
When it comes to naming bass players with a unique style and approach to the instrument, Ra Diaz is well and truly up there. Having formed one of Suicidal Tendencies’ most exciting rhythm sections alongside legendary Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo, Ra’s work with nu metal band Korn is also indelibly etched on the rock landscape for all to see. Sounds like the perfect guy for anyone looking to improve as a bass player. In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 98 - Why Reverb.com Sucks / Analog vs Digital pedals / YouTube Channel Update | 20 Jul 2023 | 00:53:28 | |
Is buying a bass guitar online a bad idea? If you’re anything like us, you probably browse the guitar sections of both brick-and-mortar stores and online fairly often! Also in today’s episode; we explore the pros and cons of digital and analog stompboxes, and walk you through the tactics we’re using to grow our YouTube channel. In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 196- The Legendary Bass Lines of Ready Freddie Washington | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:58:38 | |
Scott sits down with Ready Freddie Washington to talk about the bass lines that changed the game — starting with the iconic groove on Forget Me Nots by Patrice Rushen. From Herbie Hancock to Anita Baker, Freddie breaks down the mindset, the feel, and the moments behind the low end that made history. | |||
| 97 - Billy Sheehan Talks Rock Bass Technique And The Key to Creative Practice | 13 Jul 2023 | 01:01:35 | |
Whether you know him best as part of Mr Big, Talas, The Winery Dogs or as the guy from David Lee Roth’s Eat 'Em and Smile, Billy Sheehan is one of the most recognisable rock bassists of his generation. In this episode you're going to learn: - How Billy maintains his three-finger technique. - The one piece of advice he would give to his younger self. - Why his practice routine has become way more focussed. - The inspiration behind his Yamaha Attitude Bass. - And much, much more! | |||
| 96 - Ian's New Sig Bass / Scott Gets Roasted in the Studio and MORE | 06 Jul 2023 | 01:28:11 | |
Any signature bass guitar is one of a kind and unique. However, it entirely depends on what side of the fence you are. In today’s episode Ian unveils his own collaboration with Mike Lull Custom Guitars! Scott also speaks about his recent studio project and shares some early details about the next one! In this Episode you're going to learn:
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| 95 - Sleeping on Alembic / Vintage Vs Modern Basses / Scott's New Bass Hero | 04 Jul 2023 | 01:14:54 | |
Ever since Jack Casady first used an Alembic to hot-wire his bass sound with Jefferson Airplane, boutique builders have maintained legendary status throughout the bass world. But can the right player make any bass sound good? In this episode, we discuss one of the most recognisable and idolised bass guitar designs of all time (and Scott’s new bass hero who played it.
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| 94 - Are Signature Basses DONE? | 29 Jun 2023 | 01:30:51 | |
For some bass players, there's no better way to capture the legendary sound of their idols than bagging a signature axe with their name on the headstock, but are things about to change? In today’s episode we dig into what the future holds for signature basses. In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 93 - Why does everyone always talk about JAZZ?! | 28 Jun 2023 | 00:42:29 | |
Learning about jazz might not be at the top of your to-do-list, especially if the only time you hear it is when you go to Starbucks! BUT if you want to get really good at bass then jazz is the ultimate genre of music to learn. In this episode, Scott explains how learning some jazz can unlock a musical superpower! In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 92 - Is Versatility on the Bass Overrated? Well, it depends… | 22 Jun 2023 | 00:49:25 | |
Can you play heavy metal and smooth jazz and pop, all in one day? Or are you strictly the bassist for one act and one act only? It used to be taught that versatility would equal more opportunity for success in your bass playing career, but is that still the case? In today’s episode we ask if it’s actually better to flip this idea on its head and focus your energy in just one direction! In this Episode you're going to learn:
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| 91 - Traveling with a bass is a Nightmare! | 15 Jun 2023 | 00:45:42 | |
A bass player’s worst nightmare is traveling with their bass and having it lost or broken. Even with airlines allowing guitars as a carry-on, it can still be up to the staff to decide to allow it or not. In today’s episode, we share our air-travel horror stories and our top hacks for traveling with your bass safely!
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| 90 - Tube Amps - Heaven or Hell? | 08 Jun 2023 | 00:53:19 | |
Bootsy Collins, Robert Trujillo, Cliff Williams, Krist Novoselic, Sting – they all relied, or still rely, on tube amps for their signature bass sound. And yet, the decision between solid-state vs tube amps is not one we take lightly. In today’s episode we examine the key differences between the two, covering areas like tone, cost and practicality, to help you figure out what might be best for you.
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| 89 - Quintuplet or just FEEL IT?! J Dilla Time on Bass | The Rob Mullarkey & Richard Spaven Interview | 01 Jun 2023 | 01:09:46 | |
Rob Mullarkey has mastered the worlds of groove and odd-time signatures on the bass guitar, but how do those skills translate when playing with a drummer? In today's episode, we sit down with Rob and one of the most unique drummers in hip-hop and drum ’n’ bass, Richard Spaven. In this episode you're going to learn:
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| 88 - How to get people to give a sh!t about your music in 2023 | 25 May 2023 | 01:29:32 | |
More music is being produced today than ever before. In 2022, 22 million new singles hit Spotify. That’s a new song every 1.4 seconds! In today’s episode, we dig into some tips and tricks to help you stand out from the crowd in 2023. In this Episode you're going to learn:
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| 195- New Bass Day… all the juicy details | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:54:02 | |
Scott’s got his hands on a brand new Lull Jazz Bass—and this one’s custom. In this episode, he and Ian dive into the juicy details: how the idea came together, what makes a signature bass really special, and all the nerdy gear goodness you’d expect. From pickups to playability, it’s all here. | |||
| 87 - Budget versions of the greatest basses EVER! | 18 May 2023 | 01:17:01 | |
Unsure about how much to spend on your next bass? In this episode, we dig into the reasons why some bass guitars are so expensive and other guitars are more affordable - and what this means for the modern bass player on the hunt for a new axe. In this Episode you're going to learn:
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| 86 - The Henrik Linder Interview: The Secret of Dirty Loops | 11 May 2023 | 00:47:17 | |
For today’s episode, we catch up with Henrik Linder to talk about his gear, his awesome band Dirty Loops, and how he developed his monstrous bass technique! In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 85 - Neck through vs bolt on . . . which is SUPERIOR? | 04 May 2023 | 01:24:56 | |
Bolt-on? Neck-through? All bass guitars are essentially the same, right? Wrong! Many bass players say that bass guitars with bolt-on necks have a punchier attack than neck-through designs. In today’s episode, we’re going to highlight the pros and cons, so that you can decide which you prefer – or maybe you should have one of each! In this Episode you're going to learn:
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| 84 - Emergency NAMM debrief (it was a blood bath!) | 27 Apr 2023 | 00:44:42 | |
Every year, the world's rock 'n' roll music equipment manufacturers, distributors and retailers descend on the town of Anaheim, California, to attend the NAMM show. It's a pure, unadulterated gear fest, showcasing everything that's planned for the coming year. In today’s episode we talk through all the new bass gear and goings-ons you need to know about! In this Episode you're going to learn:
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| 83 - How He Got the Weezer Gig: Scott Shriner | 20 Apr 2023 | 01:36:45 | |
We could quite happily tell anyone who will listen that Weezer are our favorite band. Scott Shriner has held the bass chair since 2001 and has always stood out among the group’s history of bassists. His rock-solid pocket playing brings an extra edge to Weezer’s tone, which is why we think you’ll love this episode as we dive into Scott’s bass playing and career with Weezer.
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| 82 - How to choose the PERFECT BASS | 13 Apr 2023 | 01:03:59 | |
When it comes to bass guitars, there’s a massive scope in style and sound for you to explore. It can be subjective, sure, but certain styles of music tend to work best with certain kinds of basses. In today’s episode we delve into what makes a bass guitar perfect for the gig. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 81 - She plays 3 notes and the crowd goes WILD: Blu DeTiger | 06 Apr 2023 | 01:08:30 | |
Blu DeTiger, bassist and social media star with 1.4 million fans on TikTok, recently took to the stage to announce her first full-length album, which is due to drop later this year. Bursting with talent, Blu has amassed millions of views with thumping bass covers of hits by Prince and Megan Thee Stallion. In this episode, we sit down with Blu to uncover her story, how she got started and her upcoming partnership with Fender. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 80 - So you wanna be a bass teacher (and earn more money) | 30 Mar 2023 | 01:35:05 | |
If you’re a bass player and you feel ready to earn some extra cash by passing on your skills to others, setting up as a teacher could be a really good move. But how do you become a bass teacher? What credentials do you need? In this episode, we walk you through the minimum requirements for teaching as well as some steps to get you started. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 79 - Why Janek REFUSES to play a signature bass (ever again) | 23 Mar 2023 | 02:01:07 | |
Is a signature instrument still a standard perk of modern bass stardom? Janek Gwizdala has attracted his fair share of signature models over the years, including basses for Fodera in 2012 and Mattisson Basses in 2017. In this episode, Janek explains why he has since turned his back on endorsement deals, and why he’ll never make music just for social likes. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 78 - 5 bass guitars EVERY bassist needs | 16 Mar 2023 | 01:01:10 | |
Whether you're in the market for an active 5-string or a custom-built classic, choosing the right bass guitar can be difficult. How do you know what’s the right one for you? In today’s episode, we list what we think are the 5 best bass guitars you can get your hands on. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 194-The Darkglass Anagram: Worth the Hype? | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:52:22 | |
Is the Darkglass Anagram really worth the hype? In this episode, Scott and Ian dive into the new analog multi-effects unit and pit it against the ever-popular HX Stomp. Could this be the gear that finally gets Scott to ditch his pedalboard for good? They break down the strengths of each, share their own setups, and ask the big question—which one’s right for you? | |||
| 77 - Her Bass player CANCELLED, so she picked up the bass and fell in LOVE: Adi Oasis | 09 Mar 2023 | 00:48:16 | |
NYC-based singer, songwriter Adi Oasis is also an incredible bassist. Her performance for music platform Colors has racked up an astounding 1.5 million views on YouTube! What you might not know is that Adi started out on guitar and then jumped to bass later in life. In today’s episode we get the backstory on her biggest and best career moments so far. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 76 - Will AI Fundamentally Change Bass Playing Forever?! | 02 Mar 2023 | 00:58:45 | |
The role of artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a part of everyday life, but what can bass players expect from the rapid growth of apps like ChatGPT? The AI can be directed to impersonate the style of specific individuals, and even used to write a bass line “in the style of Paul McCartney”. In this episode, we’re going to explore the potential impact of AI on the music industry and what it means for bass players everywhere! In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 75 - Pink Floyd, Michael Jackson & Madonna’s Bassist?! - The Guy Pratt Interview | 23 Feb 2023 | 00:51:42 | |
In today’s episode Guy Pratt talks about his stint with Pink Floyd, studio dates in LA with Madonna and Michael Jackson, and the 1964 Jazz Bass that he got from The Who bassist, John Entwistle. Heads up: there’s even a cameo question from The Darkness' Justin Hawkins! In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 74 - The Confusing World of Bass Pickups - SOLVED Part 2 | 16 Feb 2023 | 01:18:37 | |
Looking at bass pickups, but confused by all the terminology? There’s a whole world of mystery surrounding what pickups do and how they can affect your sound. Such a big subject requires a concise explanation, then, doesn’t it? In today’s episode Scott and Ian venture back into anorak territory on the topic of bass pickups. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 73 - The Marcus Miller Interview: The Man, The Myth, The Legend | 09 Feb 2023 | 01:12:30 | |
A modern master of the electric bass, Marcus Miller has been landing dream gigs for the best part of 40 years. So when he stopped by our London studio to talk about Miles Davis, playing bass on that Luther Vandross mega hit and the fallout from slapping Jaco’s Teen Town, we knew it was an interview we had to share with you. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 72 - Is this the New Way of Making Money as a Musician? | 02 Feb 2023 | 01:14:10 | |
Making money as a musician can be tough. The industry is constantly changing, and it can be hard to keep up with all the latest trends. But if you’re willing to try your hand at building an online audience, you’ll find a wealth of opportunities that you can tap into. In today’s episode, we look at some social media hacks that you can use to get the most engagement possible. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 71 - The Confusing World of Bass Pickups - Part 1 | 26 Jan 2023 | 00:47:17 | |
Hey, Scott here... and we’re back with another brand-new podcast for you! At some point, we all wonder what life would be like with different pickups in our bass. Yet it’s the ONE thing that most of us dare not mess with! Even to experienced bass players, terms like impedance, inductance, resonant frequency and ohmic load can make things pretty confusing. In today’s episode, we dig into some of the technical basics and get to grips with everything a bass player needs to know on the topic of pickups. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 70 - We're giving away $50,000 worth of bass gear?! WTF! (full gear breakdown) | 19 Jan 2023 | 00:52:44 | |
Ready to win $50,000 in awesome bass prizes? Up for grabs is Scott’s Ken Smith Black Tiger 6-string, Ian’s StingRay 5 and a 1978 Fender Jazz Bass! Our latest giveaway is also a great opportunity to help us raise money for Pencils of Promise, which is a global organization that brings life-changing education to children living in poverty around the world. To date the SBL community has raised over $173,000 and this year we're trying to raise even more! Find out everything you need to know in today’s episode. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 69 - Sing?! Don’t make me SING. Why you MUST | 12 Jan 2023 | 00:58:03 | |
Being able to sing and play bass gives you a real head start on those who only work the fretboard. Even if you think your singing voice sounds like a strangled cat doing karaoke, everyone can learn to sing, and bass players absolutely should! But it can also be a daunting challenge, whether you have a dynamite voice or can barely carry a tune. In today’s episode we dig into some top tips to maximize your magic as a singing bassist.
In this episode you’re going to learn: The benefits every bassist can get from singing. Why it takes practice. How it can help you get more gigs! And much more… | |||
| 68 - Why Scott is going to therapy. Seriously. | 05 Jan 2023 | 01:07:33 | |
Freud never put anyone from SBL on the couch, but when it comes to life as a bass player, there can often be a sense that you need to remain outwardly grateful, even if you’re struggling. In this episode, we talk through the effects of negative self-talk, the addictive nature of social media and why Scott is heading to therapy. | |||
| Live Q&A - All your questions answered about our biggest program | 13 Jun 2025 | 01:04:11 | |
Check out the Full Stack Bassist program here 👉 https://sbl.link/3FDuEx8 In this episode, Scott and Ian host a live Q&A to answer your most important questions about the Academy’s flagship 12-month program. They explain how the course is structured, what kind of time commitment you can expect, and how it’s designed to be flexible around your schedule. Whether you're wondering how to stay on track, how the live sessions work, or how much support is included, this conversation will give you a clear picture of what to expect—and how to get the most out of the journey. | |||
| 203 - From Charlie Parker to Prince: The Ben Williams Interview | 29 Dec 2022 | 01:06:08 | |
When Ben Williams won the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition in 2009, he did so by impressing a panel of judges that included bass greats Charlie Haden, Ron Carter and Dave Holland. Lately he’s been keeping himself busy with a host of impressive side projects with artists like Pat Metheny, Sting and vocalist Syndee Winters. In this episode, we get the lowdown on his career so far, and how he juggles life as a bandleader, singer, songwriter and bassist. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 202 - TSA took EVERY SCREW out of my bass | 22 Dec 2022 | 00:57:48 | |
Every touring bass player’s worst nightmare is arriving at their destination only to find their precious bass case smashed to smithereens. Even with airlines allowing guitars as a carry-on, it can still be up to the crew’s discretion. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to make sure that your bass makes it in one piece. In this episode, Ian shares a TSA horror story along with some of his top travel hacks. In this episode you’re going to learn:
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| 201 - The Search for Excalibur (Scott’s Album Bass Search!) | 15 Dec 2022 | 00:43:36 | |
What makes a truly great bass guitar? Is it the way it plays? The way it sounds? How it was built? Or is it all in the hands of the player? Scott and Ian are the knights in today’s virtual round table discussion, and the first thing they’re turning their attention to is the myth that it’s all down to the wood! In this episode you’re going to learn: Why Scott is still searching for ‘excalibur’ Do basses from different eras really have a different vibe? Why you should commit to just one bass. Scott gets super geeky over fingerboard inlays and pickup placement. And much more! | |||