DAVE ASKS A BASS PLAYER :

Hi folks,

I have been thinking a lot lately about the “engine room” or foundation of any group, that is the bass player and drummer; if they don’t lock in properly, the whole band is bound to have problems.

That said, I thought I would take the opportunity to speak to Sydney bass player Ben Waples (credits include Vince Jones, Mike Nock and Triosk).

Here’s Bens take on the big question: timing and groove.

1.Ben, at what age did you start doing regular practice?

I played piano for 9 years and started practicing regularly at the age of 5 every day. Bass practice started at age 12 and I would practice pretty much every night.

2.During those practice sessions, did you devote some time to using a metronome?

I didn’t devote a large amount of time with the metronome until about 5 years ago- I had some problems with my hand and after I recovered I would spend about 1hr with the metronome. I would use the metronome to improve time, tone and finger strength. I still do it and it is the best thing to do each day to notice improvement on your instrument.

3.Were you conscious of time? Or at what stage did you realize timing was important?

I wasn’t conscious of “time” until I went to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Prior to that I had only played with two drummers- Pug Waples and dave Helman. Both these guys had pretty good time and I didn’t need to think about it. When I got to play with other drummers I experienced different placing of beats and time feels and it made my doubt my ability to play in time. It was an invaluable lesson in self-confidence to believe in your own time feel and if you spent time in the practice room with a metronome you would feel secure in backing yourself.

4.Do you feel you play “on top”, “in the middle” or “behind “ the groove; or can that be adjusted during a gig.

That depends on who you play with- I’m a pretty jumpy person so I usually push the time and make things want to speed up, however if you are playing with a guy who speeds up even more than you, you quickly adjust and try to keep a rein on things. There are plenty of drummers who also try to keep the reins on me also!!!

5.When you start a gig with a drummer you haven’t worked with before, what do you listen for?

If they are listening! You can pick out any musician very quickly by seeing if they are listening to you. If they’re not listening it’s going to be a long night!!!

6.If your not happy with the way things “lock” do you keep it to yourself or attempt to fix it

You try to reach a compromise with the other musicians if things aren’t gelling- I never say anything to anyone because it’s an unspoken rule that they should know what they are doing. I think it brings a bad vibe if you get heavy about how things are feeling…it’s only music. However….. If it’s my project I ensure I pick personnel that will all gel together and if there are less experienced players on board that ask my advice I will tell them in the most objective way possible.

7.While playing a tune, do you tend to think about downbeats and quarter notes? What’s going through your mind, besides what time the gig finishes?

I basically just listen to the other musicians and the music that we are all making- if you think too much you stop listening!

8.Have you ever had to cope with a bandleader trying to adjust your time?

Yes and unfortunately they are the guilty culprits most of the time!! I have only been accosted by musicians who are quite insecure and will palm off their insecurities to the band. When I have been pulled up by leaders who I deeply respect I try and take on board the message they are trying to convey to me. If they sense a problem with my time I find it’s probably because I’m in a weird mood and letting my mood take over my playing too much. For example if I’m really nervous I might rush a bit and if they pull me up on that I know to try and chill out a bit.

9.Name 5 drummers who have great feel in your opinion?

Too tough!!! Ok- James Waples, Evan Mannell, Elvin Jones, Steve Gadd, Stevie Wonder.

10.CLOSING OBSERVATIONS?

If you are able to play music you are very very lucky.

Cheers, Dave