BASS
GROOVIN ’ WITH OCTAVES | Adam Nitti
Bass players are no strangers to playing octaves . Since the bass guitar has primarily a foundational role , it makes sense that we often utilize the octave above or below the root in order to add some extra motion or ‘ lift ’ to the lines we are playing . In this installment I will be sharing some octave-inspired lines that I came up with that are fun to play and are also somewhat challenging . These are all about having some fun grooving with an interval you are probably already very familiar with , and I hope they will inspire some new ideas for you .
Although all of these example lines are octavedriven , you will quickly notice that they do in fact sneak in some other scale tones to glue the lines together . However , the emphasis is mostly on the octaves to help create larger intervallic spaces and distance in each line . Also be sure to pay close attention to the rhythms , as they incorporate some syncopation that you will want to capture accurately . Be sure to play each line slowly until you can memorize it , and then increase the tempo to suit your current level of proficiency .
Photo by Rahul Viswanath on Unsplash
Example 1 is a 16 th note funk line with a suggested feel similar to a Motown groove . Although it is written in straight rhythm , you can swing it , as well . Be sure to start this one slowly , focusing on the accuracy of your 16 th note subdivisions . Don ’ t increase tempo until you have the rhythm down accurately . Suggested tempo : 100 bpm
Example 1
Example 2 is a line made up exclusively of octaves that is written to sound like a synth bassline . Notice how there are rests in three of the four measures . Make sure you don ’ t ignore these spaces and play the specific note durations that are written . This is a challenging line to play perfectly as it relies on consistent plucking finger alternation to execute cleanly . Suggested tempo : 90 bpm
Example 2
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