electric guitar or two , a keys player , and yes , a bass player . So , you might be wondering why you ’ d want to use synth bass when you already have someone on stage filling the bass role .
The fact of the matter is that most of the songs you ’ re covering likely feature layered bass sounds . Just head to your favorite purveyor of backing tracks and you ’ ll often see synth bass , sub bass , or ARP bass right alongside electric bass stems .
When your objective is to capture some of the feel of the original recording then , if not to exactly replicate it , it stands to reason that the low-end should get some attention . This is especially true if your church has a sound system that ’ s able to adequately present low and sub bass frequencies , where synths can provide an extra bit of power .
If your team already has a live bassist , then , you should seek to understand how they fill their role and to collaborate in making them sound even better .
HOW TO LAY IT DOWN
The balance between electric and synth bass can be delicate and requires that you sort out two specific areas of focus .
First , you have to make sure that you understand the rhythmic tendencies of your electric bass player , so you can either match them as they match the kick , or intentionally go in a different direction to broaden the low-end coverage .
This can be tricky , especially if your bass player hasn ’ t mastered the art of locking in their bass parts to consistently double the kick or drive the song . If your bass player struggles with this , you should exercise additional caution when considering the addition of synth bass . Perhaps focus first on getting your bass and kick in better sync before adding a third component , or you might be getting ahead of your band .
Second , layering synth bass presents not just the potential for doubling up the fundamental bass note being played , but also for adding timbral and harmonic complexity to the overall bass sound . This might look like a specific , attack-heavy synth bass sound that accents a percussive bass part , or a bright , growly saw-tooth bass sound as the band builds up a big bridge .
You ’ ll have to discern within your band context , and by spending time with the source material you ’ re covering , what sonic space is available to fill that will enhance and support your live bass player and won ’ t step on any other band member ’ s toes either .
BASSIC
In my experience keys players might find synth bass parts even more intimidating to approach than synth leads . There ’ s no denying that a clashing bass note blaring through the subs can hit people in the chest , and not in a good way . But I ’ d argue that the extra power , punch , and foundation that a well-placed synth bass sound can bring is worth the effort , if your church context can handle it .
Remember to focus on enhancing and layering , not overriding , and maybe just make sure your bass player knows you ’ re coming before they show up after you for soundcheck . I ’ ll never make that mistake again .
David Pfaltzgraff Founder and Lead Sound Designer at SundaySounds . com , a site that resources worship keys players and guitarists around the world . David currently resides in Des Moines , IA with his wife and two boys . He enjoys volunteering in his church ’ s worship ministry , old synthesizers , and a good super-hero movie .
SundaySounds . com
76 January 2024 Subscribe for Free ...