| Author | Message | ||
| blazer
Intermediate Member Username: blazer Post Number: 116 Registered: 12-2003 |
He plays a beautiful series one bass throughout the thing, the bass looks ENORMOUS on him. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbHa2_o5flM http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvSLC-q6vS4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZUbB4pE11E | ||
| inthelows
Advanced Member Username: inthelows Post Number: 319 Registered: 11-2006 |
Great video and nice bass! Thanks for the links. I've always wondered if the band on the thumb is a thumb pick or just tape on his right hand. Does anybody have any info on that. NLP | ||
| 88persuader
Advanced Member Username: 88persuader Post Number: 268 Registered: 5-2004 |
Great links ... thanks!!! | ||
| hieronymous
Intermediate Member Username: hieronymous Post Number: 105 Registered: 1-2005 |
I think it's just a rubber thing on his thumb, not a pick. I seem to remember reading about it in an interview somewhere... | ||
| tbrannon
Advanced Member Username: tbrannon Post Number: 300 Registered: 11-2004 |
Somebody posted here a while back- I think with a link- that he uses a piece of black electrical tape, which helps keep the skin on his thumb from splitting. | ||
| inthelows
Advanced Member Username: inthelows Post Number: 321 Registered: 11-2006 |
Just wondering, BTW, I use a thumb pick. You can use it to pick normally and not have to worry about dropping it when switching to finger picking. Also you can turn it sideways and it really accents the pop when thumbing the notes. It takes a little getting used to but I've been doing for so long it's second nature now. Thanks for the comments.. NLP | ||
| 88persuader
Advanced Member Username: 88persuader Post Number: 272 Registered: 5-2004 |
Thumb pick? Interesting idea! | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 713 Registered: 6-2002 |
A Level 42 junkie mate of mine told me that Mark started using black electrical tape on his thumb after splitting it open on a gig in the far east years ago whilst slapping. he's not sure what he uses now. Years ago when I was first interested in Slapping I used to put an old silver jewellery ring I had around my thumb joint and use that. It had a good weight and sounded nice. But then I found it uncomfortable when not slapping and eventually Disliked the loud click that it created. Jazzyvee. | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 1001 Registered: 10-2002 |
It's black electrical tape. In the manner of all rock Gods, he threw it into the audience after his Perth gig last November. Possibly not as collectable as a pick or a drumstick;-) Graeme | ||
| mrbassman42
Junior Username: mrbassman42 Post Number: 15 Registered: 5-2004 |
Hi Guys, It's Gaffer Tape often used to tape down cables on stage (well that's what we use it for mostly) I believe you guys in the states may know it as duck tape (well it's a generic form of that anyway) Also I believe that bass in the Video is his 32 scale cocobola series II Cheers Mark | ||
| jsaylor
Member Username: jsaylor Post Number: 82 Registered: 11-2006 |
What a great player. Just goes to show you, the greatist use 4 stringers. | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 2040 Registered: 7-2004 |
Actually, it is called "duct tape" - nothing to do with birds. It works well on just about anything EXCEPT ducts! Go figure. I bring a roll to every gig. Bill, tgo | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 716 Registered: 6-2002 |
I would have thought it would pull your skin off trying to remove it of your thumb. It's very sticky indeed :-) Jazzyvee | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4738 Registered: 5-2002 |
Hi Jordan; your statement seems to suggest that you do not believe John Patitucci to be a great player. I guess I find that a bit surprising since I had assumed most bass players held him in pretty high regard. I have a DVD of Chick Corea's Elektric Band, and I'm pretty impressed; but then that may be a reflection of my own limitations as a bass player. And of course I do realize that musicians will have varying opinions of who is a "great" player and who isn't. (Message edited by davehouck on January 22, 2007) | ||
| 811952
Senior Member Username: 811952 Post Number: 953 Registered: 10-2003 |
Actually, Bill, it was originally "Duck" tape, designed by the U.S. Military as a waterproof sealant for ammo cases! I have in my younger years been inclined to debate in favor of calling it "duct" tape, but alas, the rapid accumulation of years has broken me to the point of accepting either moniker for the more-adaptable-than-my-bass-playing-will-ever-be stuff. When I lived in Alaska, people used it to patch fabric on Piper Cubs and T-Crates... Gaffer's tape, on the other hand (so to speak) isn't nearly as sticky and can be easily removed between scenes and setups, is usually not shiny and can be got from theater supply shops. And it costs considerably more. John http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duct_tape | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 1002 Registered: 10-2002 |
Jordan... "Just goes to show you, the greatist use 4 stringers." Even Jeff Berlin has climbed down off that high horse in the latest issue of Bass Player. What about the likes of Jimmy Johnson, Nathan East, Bill dickens, Steve lawson, Trip Walmsley, Steve Bailey etc. Heck, even Victor Wooten plays 5 string fretless and he's probably considered about the best of the crop these days. The trouble with your '4 strings good, anything else bad' attitude is that you close your mind to so much. Try it, you might grow to like it, then again you might not, but at the very least you should appreciate that everyone has their own way of making music. Considering Jaco Pastorius was experimenting with loops and effects pedals, it would be a fair assumption that he would have tried extra strings had he lived. Dave, i'm surprised John didn't get a nomination for best upright player too. I saw him with Wayne Shorter and his playing was astounding. Back on topic, When I saw Level 42 in November, it was definitely Black Electrical tape. graeme | ||
| keurosix
Intermediate Member Username: keurosix Post Number: 148 Registered: 10-2005 |
Hey guys, In Jordon's defense, I don't think he really meant anything serious in his comment. For instance, his first posts (albeit slightly opiniated) were about Alembic making ERB's (Extended range basses). I've come to recognise his writing style, and he has brought up some really good points and even some great websites for us to enjoy. Here's hoping he scores his very own Alembic bass this year so he can become a strong convert! Kris | ||
| dannobasso
Senior Member Username: dannobasso Post Number: 443 Registered: 3-2004 |
Depending on mood, I sometimes respond to opinion posts as "who cares?" If you are playing and are inspired and have the axe of your choosing, that is a huge plus in life. Any number of strings, makes , models, amps etc, is the spice of life. But some folks only like an old family recipe. (I happen to prefer hippie sandwiches with lights)Heated exchanges are often negative in their energy (I am also guilty of this as well) and I'm trying to increase my positive vibe in the musical world. Play what you want, buy what you want, listen to what you want and try to be happy. Tape, fingers, tapping, slapping, picks, effects etc. whatever it take for you to be inspired is good for you. Try out whatever you can to further your skills, or master what you really love. Either way keep playing. Please try to restrain from putting sand into the vasoline of life by always saying the emperor has no clothes when it doesn't really matter. MK has touched many lives and brought a lot of joy to the bass playing world myself included. I really enjoyed watching the videos posted here. Keep them coming youtube folks! What an amazing thing to make your living playing your music on your terms for a good portion of your adult life. (And having several makers produce a model named after you!) Bravo Mr. King and those who have come after you. (Keep in mind that he also chews gum like a maniac when he plays too!) | ||
| 5stringho
Member Username: 5stringho Post Number: 77 Registered: 11-2006 |
Blazer, Thankx for the links! Very informative and entertaining! The 'Ho... | ||
| jsaylor
Member Username: jsaylor Post Number: 83 Registered: 11-2006 |
Jacko and Dave, I'm not that close minded. I ment to say for slap bass. Anyone try to slap on E on a 5 string? Whole new ball game. However, since we are on the subject, how much is too much? Seeing as you mentioned Bill Dickens, his 7 string is tuned B E A D G C F. How high does it go before it is no longer a bass? Some argue that aslong as it has EADG it is a bass, but then, Is a Full range guitar (9-13 strings)a bass aswell? Finding your own personal style is good, but I believe alot of people believe more is better. While Jean Baudin has inspired me to play ERB with his song "Transcend" I have realized that while I like that song, it isn't something I sit down to and listen to. I personally am a Rock/Metal/Punk fan so naturally thats what I'm going to play. Maybe once I'm loaded, I can have Alembic make me a double neck guitar with 4 or 5 string bass(MAYBE...MAYBE a 6). Just remember, it's all personal style, not how big or how many guns (strings)you have. -Jordan | ||
| inthelows
Advanced Member Username: inthelows Post Number: 324 Registered: 11-2006 |
But then again some believe size matters Jordan! hahaha ;) "I sometimes respond to opinion posts as "who cares?" I wonder if apathy is running rampant. Just a general comment and not directed at dannobasso. The I, me, mine, syndrome whether dealing with personal posessions or one's overwhelming sense of self importance has always been around and is a difficult chain to break. I started looking at this forum because most contributions were smacked of a little humor, a lot of knowledge, and a wealth of implied talent across the planet. By implied I mean players playing at whatever the level, style, event, and equipment and willing to talk about it. Since its difficult to assess talent via the typed page, I'll use the term implied tallent. I agree in principle that the henpecking and negative vibe takes away from the fun of exchanging ideas. What was that song...LET IT RIDE? People trying out new styles, new equipment, and new approaches are what should be applauded here. Mark King Rocks. There may be many pretenders to the throne, but I don't see their names in the spotlight. The ones pushing the envelope and sticking it out seem to get rewarded by public acceptance and recognition, after years of sweating it out. It is humbling to know that there is so much more to learn, if you're willing to listen. And maybe there is some truth to the "Peter Principle" where-by you go as far as you can go until you prove your own incompetence.(short version) What's my point. Say what you what, be considerate and patient, not everone's at your level. Mark King Rocks. If it's a who care's moment, look in the mirror and ask the question again. NLP | ||
| dannobasso
Senior Member Username: dannobasso Post Number: 444 Registered: 3-2004 |
The who cares is not really apathy. It is a response to a negative post trying to chip away at an artist or individual. Meaning, why put something out there if it does not enrich the community here? But that can be viewed as a negative. So, I'll end with an Irish joke. Paddy limps into the bar and says to Michael the bartender, "Give me a double sez I, I'm just back frum a battle wit' da missus!" "Go on so" says Michael. Well, Paddy replies, "When I saw her last she was coming ta me on her hands and knees wringing her hands! " Thats a bit of a change fer ya Paddy! sez Michael."What did she say to ya? "Get out frum under da bed ya great fat chicken!" Said she! | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 1063 Registered: 2-2006 |
Mark is most definitely an awesome player, thanks for the video links. After talking to Susan a few weeks ago she mentioned something about Mark using a very light gauge set of strings on his basses. I’ve always played 45-105 on my 4’s and 45-130 on my 5’s. My conversation with Susan got me to thinking about trying a lighter set, (on my Thumb Bass first in case I didn’t like them), and so far I really like them. (Hey Danno, checked out the bands web site, very cool the myspace pix were intense too. If you guys ever come DFW way, let me know.) | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 4742 Registered: 5-2002 |
Kris wrote, "I don't think he really meant anything serious in his comment ... I've come to recognise his writing style". Thanks Kris, it appears that I took the comment a bit too literally. And Kris further wrote, "For instance, his first posts .. were about Alembic making ERB's (Extended range basses)." I had completely forgotten that! Danno wrote, "Heated exchanges are often negative in their energy ... and I'm trying to increase my positive vibe in the musical world." I like that!! Thanks! | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 1004 Registered: 10-2002 |
Hey Jordan. I didn't mean to suggest that you were close minded, merely trying to point out that there are a great many extended range players out there (and like Dave, i'd forgotten that you came on this forum seeking ERB opinions in the first place). No offence was intended. I've got to pick you up on one thing though.. I regularly slap down to low B, both fretted and fretless(which gives an interesting feel to slap, just listen to Bakithi Kumala on 'you can call me Al'). Graeme | ||
| paulman
Intermediate Member Username: paulman Post Number: 177 Registered: 2-2005 |
I discovered Gaffers tape about 9 months ago, now we don't gig without it! It's much more manageable than Duc(t or k) tape. | ||
| jsaylor
Member Username: jsaylor Post Number: 84 Registered: 11-2006 |
Jacko, What guages do you use to slap? I use 130-45 and the 130 seems a bit big. Any string reconemdations? -Jordan | ||
| keavin
Senior Member Username: keavin Post Number: 1028 Registered: 12-2002 |
(Message edited by keavin on January 25, 2007) | ||
| keavin
Senior Member Username: keavin Post Number: 1029 Registered: 12-2002 |
for more "meat" when thumping i'de recomend heavy gauge strings.....the fatter strings gives you more ass (bottom)to your sound! | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 1008 Registered: 10-2002 |
Hi Jordan. i'm currently using DR 45 - 125s red devils and Peacock Blues. Before the last string change i was using their Marcus Miller fat beams, same guage but they sounded a bit better for slap. graeme | ||
| damonuk
New Username: damonuk Post Number: 4 Registered: 1-2006 |
Hi all, Just thought I would let you know that I made this documentary. It's good that it's life has been extended by You Tube. I made it at the end of 95 beginning of 96. Being a documentary film maker and a lover of slap bass it was good to make a film about Mark. He's very gifted player. It's a shame he hasn't been more prolific in recent years. Anyway, maybe one day I'll make another film about him - you never know... | ||
| olieoliver
Senior Member Username: olieoliver Post Number: 1082 Registered: 2-2006 |
Very cool Damon, nice work too. Where would one get a copy of this documentary on DVD? Olie. | ||
| damonuk
New Username: damonuk Post Number: 5 Registered: 1-2006 |
HI Olie, Thanks for your message. I tried to get a DVD off the ground a while ago because I got so many requests but I ended up losing money in trying to do so and got some resistence from certain quarters. So for the meantime it just isn't available. Sorry about that. Cheers D | ||
| inthelows
Advanced Member Username: inthelows Post Number: 332 Registered: 11-2006 |
Very nice work Damon! As far as we know Mark may be saving the best for last( or near last) hahaha. Too bad 'bout the dvd. That would be nice stuff indeed. Good luck with your next adventure. NLP |
