Music Banter - View Single Post - Bass Question: Using your thumb and your fingers for picking.
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Old 06-24-2009, 02:16 AM   #13 (permalink)
Freebase Dali
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mr dave View Post
it took me a very long time to start using a pick with my bass. i always followed the misguided ideal that 'real' bass players only use their fingers. using a pick provides a distinct attack and an ability to play runs with a different kind of aggression than your fingertips.

it's not something i use a lot but i found i was also able to pull out way more harmonic sounds while using a pick as opposed to my fingers.
I echo this.

Using a pick on a bass isn't a beginner's stigma. It's a method of achieving a specific sound. If you're looking for a uniform tone with high attack and a lot of high/mid string frequency response, picking is the way to go.
I just don't like the way picks can limit your natural dynamics.

To me, dynamics in playing ANY instrument is just important as what you're playing in the first place.
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