YOUR QUESTION:

11/18/2019 17:36:59 Cooper Loose

I was turned on to Mr. Bungle earlier this year by my cousin's boyfriend and have quickly become a big fan, especially of the self-titled album. more recently, I've looked past the lyrics and paid more attention to the instrumentation. I was wondering, do you have any method/practice tips for novice bassists (can play a bass but don't own one, played guitar for 8 years)?

MY ANSWER:

There are endless fundamentals you can learn (and I would certainly consider taking lessons with someone) but any beginning books (Mel Bay, Carol Kaye, etc) will supply you with methods and tips. I’m a bit unfamiliar with what is out there these days in that realm (my references go back to the early ‘80s) but I’m sure there are tons. I’d shy away from TAB notation— I think it is limiting. In addition I would learn your favorite bass lines by ear. That is an invaluable exercise.