| Author | Message | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 2187 Registered: 6-2002 |
Lately I have been to a couple of jam sessions locally as a punter but am thinking of joining in soon but I know that many of the muso's there know I'm an Alembic owner and will want to have a try out on my instrument. I've been to gigs where someone has wanted to try out my bass and apart from a rare occasion where it was a very good bass playing friend of mine I've always said no. But at jam sessions it seems kind of expected that you hand over your instruments for others to play (apart from horn players). I just worry about it getting damaged on the crowded stage. Do you have any scary stories that you can share? If you have had an alembic damaged at one of these sessions did the person responsible do the decent thing and pay up for the repair or did you have to grin and bear it? Jazzyvee | ||
| krystoof
Member Username: krystoof Post Number: 98 Registered: 1-2009 |
Hi, Jazzyvee! Fortunately, I never had any damage on my bass during a jam session, and I don't have any scary stories to tell, but the point is that I was feeling a little nervous when a bassist I didn't know was taking my bass to play with. And this was before I bought Ambre, my 5 string MK sig. Now I have an Alembic, and I'm a little like you, I have never left anyone play with her during a jam session. Some of my good friends have tried her, but not at a jam session( in my place, at music school,...). And the other point is that I don't know how I would react if someone was damaging the bass I've been dreaming of for years and years... | ||
| sonicus
Senior Member Username: sonicus Post Number: 1347 Registered: 5-2009 |
This is one of those scenarios that we might feel uncomfortable about where we just might have be the the fellow who just says no. The wild eyed chap with the huge belt buckle and rings on all fingers will have to provide is own Bass.I never met him before and I was very friendly as I said no and put my Bass away in the case. No can be nice , very nice when we have avoided a possibly worse social interaction by requesting funds for a refinish. His response might be even a bit more adverse after that request. I bring a beater bass to such an event like my Old Fender . It is unlikely that I would hand over a Pristene Alembic Unless it already had finish issues. Perhaps that might make me appear to seem selfish or even uptight in their eyes______ but then no one is perfect ______. No can be nice , it is how we say it and it can save us misery . | ||
| serialnumber12
Senior Member Username: serialnumber12 Post Number: 832 Registered: 12-2004 |
thats why i bring two basses to jams my alembic is like my wife never let another man even get close cause shes been hurt before already!  | ||
| sonicus
Senior Member Username: sonicus Post Number: 1348 Registered: 5-2009 |
That picture hurts me too , just looking at it ___ | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 2188 Registered: 6-2002 |
Keavin, that picture is a good regular reminder that although these bases are strong they can still break. Can you imagine someone handing you back your bass in two pieces after picking it up without permission at a jam session...!!! I could imagine where the sharp bit of that broken neck would be made to fit. Throws a whole new light on the phrase neck thru....!!! Jazzyvee | ||
| terryc
Senior Member Username: terryc Post Number: 1377 Registered: 11-2004 |
I agree with Sonicus, if I am asked to play in the house band at a jam session then I take my old Squier P bass(even though it has Alembic activators and sounds great). It has dents and scratches on it but I could always re finish the body. I would never let anyone use my Alembic. If you had a great car would you let any stranger borrow it..I guess not | ||
| dadabass2001
Senior Member Username: dadabass2001 Post Number: 1500 Registered: 6-2002 |
I've been to jam sessions both as a house band member and as just another guy on the waiting list. I always check out a session before I bring out my bass. My bass stays in it's case until I'm on, and I stay right beside her. The "rule" around Chicago is that everyone brings their own instrument, so I've never had to deal with someone expecting to use my bass. I have let people I know and have past history with try out my bass at sessions, but would not let an unknown pick her up. So yes, I am cautious but it's a key part of my sound. If it's not safe for my Alembic, I don't really want to be there.  Mike | ||
| edwin
Senior Member Username: edwin Post Number: 774 Registered: 5-2002 |
I was at a music awards ceremony thrown by the Westword in Denver. At the end was a big jam session. I had my Starfire with me and some metal player literally grabbed it out of my hands yelling at me that he had to play since his drummer was playing. He then proceeded to play pretty hard. Although there was no damage, I was pretty pissed off that he would do that without regard to the instrument he was playing and without respect for it. Further he was intent on playing his most metal bass parts with the drummer, completely disrespecting the rest of the band, who were mostly hip hop and rappers trying to get some kind of groove happening. I've never been to one of their awards ceremonies since, regardless of winning some categories. | ||
| edwin
Senior Member Username: edwin Post Number: 775 Registered: 5-2002 |
I was at a music awards ceremony thrown by the Westword in Denver. At the end was a big jam session. I had my Starfire with me and some metal player literally grabbed it out of my hands yelling at me that he had to play since his drummer was playing. He then proceeded to play pretty hard. Although there was no damage, I was pretty pissed off that he would do that without regard to the instrument he was playing and without respect for it. Further he was intent on playing his most metal bass parts with the drummer, completely disrespecting the rest of the band, who were mostly hip hop musicians and rappers trying to get some kind of groove happening. I've never been to one of their awards ceremonies since, regardless of winning some categories. | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 9731 Registered: 5-2002 |
Wow! That guy's carrying around some bad karma. | ||
| mike1762
Senior Member Username: mike1762 Post Number: 659 Registered: 1-2008 |
But not your Karma!!! | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 9732 Registered: 5-2002 |
Hah! | ||
| toma_hawk01
Advanced Member Username: toma_hawk01 Post Number: 319 Registered: 9-2009 |
Man, I remember back in the 70's my uncles and other relatives would drive up in their brand new 1973 Cadillac Coupe De Ville, or other 70's model, and it wouldn't be long before one of us older teenagers (or my older brother) would be given the keys to test drive it -- while us younger cats (like myself) would be happy and honored to get a ride in the front or back seats. My Uncles would just kick back and dig the whole scene in pride. From a special object perspective, this is pretty much how I feel about sharing my Alembics. My elders had it right. Peace and Love, Hal- | ||
| gtrguy
Advanced Member Username: gtrguy Post Number: 311 Registered: 9-2004 |
I think it's understood your instrument is like your wife. Amps mau be OK to borrow at a jam, but a real player would never ask to use your bass. And... you would not want anyone else but a real player touching it anyway. I think Alembics just tempt people to ask dumb favors they should not be asking. No how - no way am I letting anyone touch my tools of the trade. Dave | ||
| mike1762
Senior Member Username: mike1762 Post Number: 661 Registered: 1-2008 |
I bought my Alembics used, so (relatively speaking) I don't have that much invested in them. As such, I'm not too uptight about other people playing them. HOWEVER, if I had spent 20K+ on a custom build I'm sure I would feel differently about that. | ||
| malthumb
Senior Member Username: malthumb Post Number: 480 Registered: 5-2002 |
I am ok with people playing my Alembics in situations WHERE I HAVE CONTROL. I have yet to go to a jam session where I felt in control. In situations like the one pictured below, where I know the guy (a Sadowsky owner who knows how to respect a bass) I'm cool.  Otherwise, it's "NO" as nicely as possible, but with me not caring what they think about me for saying no. Peace, James | ||
| cosmic
Member Username: cosmic Post Number: 67 Registered: 5-2005 |
I pretty much don't let anyone play my Alembic. I don't care if people think I am a dick for not allowing them to get their grubby paws on it. | ||
| edwin
Senior Member Username: edwin Post Number: 776 Registered: 5-2002 |
I noticed when flying back home yesterday that the TSA agent at the airport had a really hard time putting the bass back in the case and letting it out of his hands! Luckily he was wearing gloves and was very careful, but still, it was hard to watch him procrastinate. | ||
| sonicus
Senior Member Username: sonicus Post Number: 1351 Registered: 5-2009 |
A few years ago at Dallas/Fort Worth Airport a TSA agent mishandled an instrument of mine and I corrected him on the proper handling so he called over his supervisor and told him that I would not permit him to inspect my Trumpet. I was then escorted to a back room and asked to completely disassemble my trumpet in front of the 2 agents while they tested individual parts my trumpet for explosives or other forbidden substances! I have been cleaning my horns that way anyway since I was 10 years old so it was really not much of a big deal . This whole event took about 45 minutes and I was grinning the entire time . Other folks who were in my traveling party later commented that they could feel the high tension in the room and were convinced that if I had been more adversely verbal and shown any agitation that we would have missed our flight. | ||
| hg30904
Member Username: hg30904 Post Number: 87 Registered: 6-2003 |
One of the best times ever had to be at the NE/NJ Gathering and touching/playing Greg Locke's bass. Flax was encouraging everyone to play Scarlet and Dire Wolf. Everybody was really cool. But then, perhaps that was different... | ||
| pace
Senior Member Username: pace Post Number: 635 Registered: 4-2004 |
That was a totally different scenario Harold... I was reluctant to play half the basses there that were offered to me to pick up!!!! On a related note, I'm curious how many of us have showed up to a gig, only to have the supporting or headlining act demand to use our equipment??? It seems this type of request has become the rule rather than the exception of late... | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 1118 Registered: 11-2004 |
Mike, that's good to know about other acts wanting to use your equipment. I haven't encountered it myself. My gigs are always one band gigs. Now I know to ask. Letting someone use my amp rig is one thing. My axes are another matter. I see these players with lots of hardware on their stage "costumes" and it just makes me wonder. I guess, to them, the look is worth the damage. Then on the other end is Jimmy J. who has his belt buckle off to the side. It's just a matter of respect, I suppose. Rich | ||
| jet_powers
Senior Member Username: jet_powers Post Number: 514 Registered: 2-2003 |
I used to be in an outfit that hosted open mic nights and it was understood you were supposed to bring your own instrument. However, there were always a few who asked to use my Alembic. If I knew the person well enough, I would sometimes consent. If I didn't know them I would respond with "You don't mind if I f**k your wife while you are using my bass do you?" It got me some strange looks and perhaps labeled a dickhead, but they didn't use my bass and never asked again..... | ||
| dwmark
Advanced Member Username: dwmark Post Number: 280 Registered: 1-2005 |
Yes, but there's always the risk they'd rather play your Alembic. I think I'll just say "no." Other than at an Alembic gathering. dw | ||
| crobbins
Senior Member Username: crobbins Post Number: 705 Registered: 6-2004 |
>>"On a related note, I'm curious how many of us have showed up to a gig, only to have the supporting or headlining act demand to use our equipment??? It seems this type of request has become the rule rather than the exception of late..."<< We opened for "Third World" in Ventura years ago and they demanded use our gear. I told them, "No way".. | ||
| gtrguy
Advanced Member Username: gtrguy Post Number: 313 Registered: 9-2004 |
I was at a jam this Sat and a guy knocked over a mic and stand and it crashed right into the fretboard of a guy's nice old Gibson SG and did it some damage that he will be fingering for as long as he plays the instrument. Stuff happens. I once took my old vintage Porsche 911 into DEQ back when they drove them on the dyno to check them, and the clowns had every inspector in the place take turns driving it. They told me they were having a hard time getting it to 'match the curve' on the computer. They were all grinning like mad as they sat there like it was a video game. Once your possesion is out of your hands it's at the mercy of who ever has it. | ||
| oddmetersam
Intermediate Member Username: oddmetersam Post Number: 107 Registered: 7-2008 |
For me, it's not even about my Alembic, since she's relatively late to the dance, being my 7th (and last) bass since high school graduation. I treat all my basses with the same reverence and respect. So far, most other players have gotten that vibe from me and usually don't even ask. But if you are a dear friend, then by definition you can have a go at her! But I WILL pre-flight her with you; going over the controls, asking you to remove your belt; running the cord through the strap for strain relief to prevent pulling the jack out of the body (I normally play sitting down and don't use a strap); reminding you that a 35" scale means the headstock is really far away from the body and to always be mindful of the resulting "kill zone", etc. At some point I also reiterate she's a posthumous gift from my mother and embodies her spirit. By that time, they usually play really crappy cuz' they're scared shitless! But as stated previously, if we are at an Alembic gathering I trust you implicitly.... (Message edited by oddmetersam on October 18, 2010) | ||
| bigredbass
Senior Member Username: bigredbass Post Number: 1530 Registered: 9-2002 |
Of course, you get the asshats who think it's an Olympic, doesn't want to play some Jap bass, and holds out for somebody's rotgut Fender. Or . . . You get the guy who brought his rattletrap, crusty-stringed pawnshop special in, buzzes, beerstains and all, couple roaches in his case, and can NOT believe I'm such a snob as to not let him play my 'fancy' bass. Or . . . . I occasionally will let a known-to-me pro try it. They get this glow in their eyes, and say, 'now I know what the big deal is about these things'. THAT's when it's fun. Or . . . I just say NO. Doesn't bother me one bit. J o e y | ||
| cozmik_cowboy
Senior Member Username: cozmik_cowboy Post Number: 800 Registered: 10-2006 |
"You get the guy who brought his rattletrap, crusty-stringed pawnshop special in, buzzes, beerstains and all, couple roaches in his case, and can NOT believe I'm such a snob as to not let him play my 'fancy' bass." Roaches in the case? Hell, no - if they won't share why should anyone else? Peter | ||
| rjmsteel
Intermediate Member Username: rjmsteel Post Number: 114 Registered: 7-2008 |
I hav`nt even got my custom yet, although soon enough, and you guys are making me have second thoughts about letting the guys "I was" going to have a try! Ok MAYBE 1 or 2: 1 already has an Epic & the other is just a great player and is laid back. Rich | ||
| bigredbass
Senior Member Username: bigredbass Post Number: 1534 Registered: 9-2002 |
No, Pete, REAL roaches. See, I really played a lot of those places your mother warned you about ! J o e y | ||
| 811952
Senior Member Username: 811952 Post Number: 1853 Registered: 10-2003 |
I have yet to say no when someone wants to play my Alembic. I have mentioned to a couple of folks over the years just what the replacement cost would be should they break it, and I don't let it out of my sight or too far from my person (except at the Chicago gathering, but you understand...). No regrets thus far. John | ||
| cozmik_cowboy
Senior Member Username: cozmik_cowboy Post Number: 803 Registered: 10-2006 |
Yeah, me too, Joey - hey, this sounds like a thread; "What's the worst place you ever played?" See you over in Misc. Peter | ||
| edwin
Senior Member Username: edwin Post Number: 777 Registered: 5-2002 |
My philosophy was pretty much identical to John when I had my '78 Series I. It was so beat up and yet so indestructible that I had confidence that unless the person was an obvious sociopath, it seemed safe. It was pretty awesome how many times I was able to blow people away when they came up and asked "Is that an Alembic?" and I'd reply "Yes!" and thrust it into their hands! I also try to get my Starfire into people's hands if possible as it's unlike what most people play. However, I'm not sure what my policy is going to be on my new Series I. I should mention that the last time I went to a jam session was probably 1998. These days it's pretty much all people who are on the same bill, so at least they've been vetted to the point where they are competent enough to get a gig. At the end of the day, my basses are tools meant to be used, so they go out into the real world with me and are exposed to whatever is there. Plus, they are insured! | ||
| george_wright
Intermediate Member Username: george_wright Post Number: 145 Registered: 3-2005 |
As long-time members will remember, my main instrument is a baritone sax. At first you might think, "Well, no worries about people asking to play somebody else's reed instrument." But at sax get-togethers, folks bring their own mouthpieces, so it's feasible. The usual practice, in my experience, is that you don't bring an instrument you wouldn't mind somebody else playing. | ||
| toma_hawk01
Advanced Member Username: toma_hawk01 Post Number: 328 Registered: 9-2009 |
Right on George, thanks for that message... Peace and Love, Hal- | ||
| tmoney61092
Senior Member Username: tmoney61092 Post Number: 550 Registered: 9-2008 |
if i'm going to a jam session, i'm NOT going to bring my favorite/best bass. i'm going to bring the neck best thing or really anything that if it got knocked a couple times i'm not going to be killing the person who did it. but injuries do happen on stage, i was playing infront of my high school for all the seniors when our guitarist was soloing and brought his guitar up in the air real quick without paying attention and hit my brother(lead singer/guitarist)on the eyebrow, potentially fatal situation barely avoided... ~Taylor | ||
| briant
Senior Member Username: briant Post Number: 477 Registered: 12-2004 |
"At the end of the day, my basses are tools meant to be used, so they go out into the real world with me and are exposed to whatever is there. Plus, they are insured!" Thank you. My thoughts exactly. Some time ago I realized that only my Alembic basses were making "that sound" happen for me. As a result they are all I ever bring to any musical situation I involve myself in. However just because I bring them doesn't mean other people get to play them or "check them out". There have only been a handful of people who have played my Alembics (or any of my instruments for that matter). All have been trusted friends/bandmates. | ||
| charles_holmes
Member Username: charles_holmes Post Number: 77 Registered: 3-2009 |
Well, The only player that will touch my Alembic (if I choose to do so)will be a bassist that I have known for years and I know that will respect my axe. But check this out, about 25yrs ago in the rehearsal hall in South Philadelphia where I rehearsed with a group called "Sparkle", I had my double bass proped up against the wall, there was this dumb assed girl that sang in the band that thought she could fit in the gap between the bass and the wall, needless to say she knocked the bass over and broke the scroll of the bass off! It cost a couple of hundred bucks to fix (she said she would pay me and never did...jerk!) | ||
| daved
Junior Username: daved Post Number: 17 Registered: 12-2002 |
Here's a story about something I reluctantly subjected my poor Exploiter to. I'm ashamed but I learned a lesson. It's the 1st article at the top of the page. http://davedemarco.homestead.com/bizarre.html | ||
| terryc
Senior Member Username: terryc Post Number: 1487 Registered: 11-2004 |
Had that once done to me..I told him to f*** off! | ||
| gtrguy
Advanced Member Username: gtrguy Post Number: 338 Registered: 9-2004 |
I think it's a good idea to decide way ahead of time what you will do if someone asks to play your instrument. That way you are never surprised or at a loss for words. Alembics are so rare they always seem to bring out odd reactions in people, from the 'you must be a Barbie-Bass snob' to 'Wow, that's soooo pretty'. | ||
| benson_murrensun
Senior Member Username: benson_murrensun Post Number: 410 Registered: 5-2007 |
Here's a funny one, along the same lines: Last night my sweetie, a neophyte bassist, purchased a brandy-new Danelectro Longhorn; and right from the music store we went directly to a bar where I was scheduled to play a set with some guys I know. We let her sit in on the last tune, so she got to use her new bass. Right after that a woman we don't know came to our table and announced that she "had an upright bass" and wanted to try the new Dano. Even though the new bass is an el-cheapo masonite guitar, it IS brand new, and my sweetie wanted no part of it being in a stranger's hands. She was at no loss for words, and told the woman, "Sorry, I just don't do that." The woman left in a huff... Well, excuuuuuuuse me! | ||
| terryc
Senior Member Username: terryc Post Number: 1490 Registered: 11-2004 |
My drum buddy who has an expensive array of kits once let a guy play his Craviotto Pro Kit(extremely expensive, inlaid ebony, solid maple shells, an Alembic to drum on really) Anyway when the band started up and he seen his kit getting the 'death metal' thrashing, went up on stage and took the sticks off the guy and told him go away..the band was dumb struck..I wasn't as I have seen him do this before..now he doesn't let anyone(except me and a couple of others) near his kits. | ||
| kimberly
Advanced Member Username: kimberly Post Number: 347 Registered: 1-2007 |
Hi Guys, Thought I'd chip in on this one. I always play my Alembic, for both performances and open mike(s). It's just the way I am. To me it's an amazing playing and sounding instrument *and* a tool I use to ply my craft. Not to mention just plain good fun to play. Anyway.... I'm pretty fortunate that in four years of hosting my open mike, I've only had a couple of situations where someone asked to play my bass. Both times the 'askers' wouldn't accept my said with a smile, polite, "Sorry, but I don't let anyone else play my instrument, but you're welcome to come back some other time and bring your own bass." Both times they became somewhat indignant that I, (a woman), had the nerve/audacity to refuse them. Both times I stood my ground, stayed polite and listened to their stories of how good they were, how careful they'd be and, what cool basses they had. Me always saying when they were through talking, "Sorry, I just don't let anyone else play my instrument, etc, etc." And just like clockwork they became more and more insistent, and reiterate how good they are etc, etc and finally leave in a huff, grumbling all the way out the door. I just shake my head and smile. Needless to say I've yet to let anyone play my Alembic at an open mike. However, here's where it gets good. I'm opening a new open mike in a couple of weeks and in speaking with my 'regular performers', one of them reminded me about one of the two guys that I wouldn't let play my bass. 'Hmmmm, yeah vaguely.' I say. Well it turns out one of these guys, and I quote, "Hates my guts and thinks I'm a really big bitch", all cause I wouldn't let him play my bass at my open mike. :D What's so good about all this you wonder? Care to guess where he works at? Yup, my new open mike. :D Gonna be interesting, cause if he askes to play my Alembic, he's going to get the same ole story. "Sorry, but.....". :D Honestly? I'm looking forward to crossing paths/swords with him again. Brings a smile to my face right now as I'm typing this message. Best Regards, Kimberly | ||
| artswork99
Moderator Username: artswork99 Post Number: 1399 Registered: 7-2007 |
LOL, go get him Kimberly! | ||
| sonicus
Senior Member Username: sonicus Post Number: 1590 Registered: 5-2009 |
Good for you Kimberly , I think it's great that you intend to hold your ground on this issue. If anything this persistent fellow owes you an apology for his seemingly socially inept behavior. After the first no from you he should have gotten the message and after that it sounds like he is just begging like a child. You are in good form to stay polite and keep your composure if he starts to act up again. Perhaps he will grow up sooner then later and save him self from look like a fool. Sonic Regards | ||
| oujeebass
Intermediate Member Username: oujeebass Post Number: 178 Registered: 10-2002 |
Like my grandma used to say, "if you can't lose it, you couldn't afford it in the first place". Yeah, whatever. Right? | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 4736 Registered: 7-2004 |
Last Saturday evening, my band, "Stonetrout" played unplugged, (actually using acoustic guitars and a cajon drum box, and vocals though the P.A., electric bass and small bass amp), at a party following the California NORML conference. The party was in an art gallery and was pretty crowded with us set up at one end of the gallery - no stage. During a break, I was asked if someone could play a few songs using my guitar. I was playing my 1953 Martin D-28. I felt a little uncomfortable considering how crowded the party was and how close the people were to us while we were playing. It wasn't easy, but I just said "it's a '53 Martin - I don't let anyone play it." Actually, I have no problem letting someone try it in my living room or some other controlled environment, but at the party I had visions of someone falling into it while someone else was playing it, then handing me the pieces and saying "sorry, man". Bill, tgo | ||
| slawie
Advanced Member Username: slawie Post Number: 308 Registered: 8-2002 |
I find that people wanting to play my Alembic genuinly want to try it out and therefore do not abuse it after I let them know the cost and my expectations should the instrument is not the same as they picjed it up. The fretless is a little intimidating because the markers on the side of the neck are really hard to see plus the position 3 marker is totally missing I patched the hole and it is invisible unless you really look for it. I really don't mind because I stay close by. They only mostly noodle around. Once some random bloke played the sweetest tune that madee my bass sing. It was really really nice. If someone comes up who wants to play my 1977 fender I say flat out NO! because it is setup with Alembic pickups, Badass bridge, bright Dean Markleys blue steels - it is a slapping machine. I couldn't blame anyone for wanting to play my basses but I really sus out those who appreciate the finest in musical instrument making craftmanship (craftpersonship) and those slappyheads that want to beat a rhythm and generally try to compete in wanker one-up-manship. Maybe it is an ego thing. slawie | ||
| terryc
Senior Member Username: terryc Post Number: 1491 Registered: 11-2004 |
Ibpesq..you have a 53 Martin...oh I used to dream about them when I was a teenager..never ever seen one in the flesh..I bet the tone is just absolutley outstanding.. You don't see many of them here in the UK (don't suppose you send me a pic to my private e mail address, just so I can drool) | ||
| glocke
Senior Member Username: glocke Post Number: 827 Registered: 9-2002 |
IMO it takes alot of balls, ignorance or just plain ol' stupidity to even think of picking someone else's instrument up that you don't know. I personally would never think of putting another player that I don't know into that kind of position. Heck, even people that I do know irritate me when it comes to this stuff. I've had several people that I know on a casual basis pick up my instruments without asking, and I always end up looking like an asshole when the words "dude I really wish you wouldnt do that" come out of my mouth. On the one hand I can't blame them for wanting to try it, but Im also looking out for myself here, as I don't want to pay for repairs from damage caused by someone else's carelessness. Also, FWIW I've never touched another musicians expensive instrument unless I was invited to do so, and even than I was hesitant to really do too much with it. | ||
| jazzyvee
Senior Member Username: jazzyvee Post Number: 2320 Registered: 6-2002 |
As much as I may be curious about someone else's instrument I don't think I've ever asked anyone to play theirs. I think it's partly because I've not had a burning desire to mess with anything that isn't mine plus I wouldn't want to return the favour hehehe. If there was been an instrument I really like, and there have not been many, I think I would just get a focus on what I liked about it then try to check it out in a music shop. But to be honest there haven't been many basses or guitars I've seen that I would want to play in preference to my own so even that is not something that's gonna happen very often. The thought of someone damaging it and not paying is too much of a risk at a gig or jam session. Have there been any mishaps on any of the alembic meet sessions? Jazzyvee | ||
| eligilam
Advanced Member Username: eligilam Post Number: 299 Registered: 2-2006 |
I was at an open night jam thing in Charleston, SC once...pre-Alembic days, but I brought my (then) favorite axe, my trusty '91 Ric 4003. When I arrived (sketchy part of town), there were some characters milling around the parking lot---what's the politically correct term for homeless people? They were bumming change and smokes from people going into the open mic. Anyway, long story short, after my part of the set I was inside the bar mingling and whatnot before the next group got up. One of the peddlers from outside had made it in..he approached me and asked if he could play my Ric at the start of the next set. I politely said "No" and that I was about to leave (which I was, IIRC). He successfully bummed an Ibanez from one of the other guys there that seemed a little sympathetic to the guy (who apparently was sort of a well-known down-and-out neighborhood character). Wouldn't you know it? That guy freaking KILLED the bass, striking up some crazy funk riffs (Larry Graham, perhaps?) and leading the whole crowd with vocals, dancing, bass soloing, etc. I was genuinely impressed. I think I bought him a beer after his tune. He vanished again after that one song. | ||
| sonicus
Senior Member Username: sonicus Post Number: 1595 Registered: 5-2009 |
There is talent all around us. That is a good story. We are all human after all . So much potential and so much of it has not had the opportunity to be fully realized and has not had recognition in the ART & MUSIC scene. | ||
| toma_hawk01
Advanced Member Username: toma_hawk01 Post Number: 352 Registered: 9-2009 |
A very moving story Will. I know people like this where I grew up. It's sad, but there's something beautiful in the story too. That was a great read. Peace and Love, Hal- | ||
| dela217
Senior Member Username: dela217 Post Number: 1066 Registered: 6-2002 |
I was in a house band that hosted an open mic for several years. It was a weekly event and every time I played I used an Alembic. Every week different bassists played my bass, some of the players well known. At that time, I usually brought out different Alembics as the mood struck me. It could have been anything from 72-16 to my graphite necked Series II. Everyone always respected my gear and after all those years there was never any abuse. There was one time that I was playing a different gig and had the graphite Series II with me. We were on a break when a fight near the stage broke out. Somehow the fight ended up on stage and the Series II went flying across the stage. I suspected the worst, but the bass only suffered a surface scratch on the back of the body. I guess I'm lucky. I wouldn't think of not bringing a bass to a gig because it is too nice, or if I was worried about damage. I enjoy playing them too much! | ||
| melancholy_mechanic
Junior Username: melancholy_mechanic Post Number: 14 Registered: 12-2010 |
I spent a couple years hosting open mics and I had a specific rig/bass that I usually brought. I was playing in some pretty rough places and I knew that there was a pretty good chance that someone might blow my amp or take a chunk out of my bass | ||
| sonicus
Senior Member Username: sonicus Post Number: 1673 Registered: 5-2009 |
I remember once when at a jam a fellow was playing through my "Black Face Fender Dual Showman " . I had it connected to one of my Alembic A-15 cabinets. He had brought in his speaker cabinet and decided he waned to hear his speaker in comparison to mine through my Dual Showman. While he had the amplifier on with well over 75% output capacity he unplugged the 1/4' speaker out jack from my Amp and then realized that he did not have the correct speaker cable for his because my Alembic A-15 has Banana plug connections and he needed 1/4' to 1/4' for his cabinet. Next he runs around asking people if they had a speaker cable that would fit his cabinet. All this was happening while I was taking a break in another part of the building. When I came back I could smell my poor fried Dual Showman.BURNT TOAST ! This guy insisted it was not his fault and all I ever got fro him was a smirk and a half baked insincere sorry. That was a sad story but don't lose any sleep over it any more since it was well over 30 years ago. Sonic Regards , never let the music stop ! | ||
| benson_murrensun
Senior Member Username: benson_murrensun Post Number: 424 Registered: 5-2007 |
Here's a story from another angle. I did a gig opening for a headlining group; the word was that I could use the bass amp that was already set up for the other band. Got to sound check and the sound man said, yes, go ahead and use the amp. So I am happily playing away and here comes the bass player from the other band, AND HE WAS PISSED! I told him that the sound man said it would be OK, but he was, shall we say, unimpressed, even though no damage was done. I bring my own amp nowadays.... |
