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rob2966 -> RE: How to play bass for flamenco? (Nov. 17 2016 22:30:42)
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Just a quick comment about bass and fingernails. So, I have been playing bass in bands (rock, funk, pop, etc) for many years. Also been playing guitar in many styles for even longer. However, I recently (last year or two) have really gotten into playing flamenco, and grew out my fingernails. It did take a bit of adjusting on the bass to play with fingernails.
1. I had to slightly reduce the highs in my EQ since the nails were brighter.
2. I already had a light touch on bass, so my nails do seem to be fine using standard stainless steel roundwound bass strings.
3. I actually find that playing with my nails instead of fingertips is faster and more accurate...who knew :).
4. When I do need that "duller" tone you get from fingertips, I play with either my thumb (easy to avoid the thumbnail) or I use the side of my fingers, almost like playing an upright (check out videos of Stanley Clarke playing to see what I mean). That position also avoids fingernails.
Now, as to the OP question about bass approach in flamenco, I don't have much opinion there. I am still very content to be immersed into the more traditional stylings of Sabicas, etc. so have never tried to play bass with flamenco myself.
Also not lucky enough to own a Jerzy Drozd bass, isn't that a requirement for "flamenco bass" [:D]
Later
Rob
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