Production through performance

Learn

3.1 BASS Rhythm

The bass instrument is the link between the drum groove and the rest of the band. A bass line with a strong connection to the kick drum gives rhythmic freedom to the harmony that the chordal instruments play. Altering the beginnings and the ends of the notes in a bass line changes the sound of a groove.

  • Watch the walkthrough video

  • Learn the different relationships below.

How are the bass + kick related?

Relationship I: Bass and kick play at the same time

Example: The attacks of the bass are on all of the same counts as the kick drum. Separation is added between some attacks to add punch, and the last note is held out for its full value to create a connected sound when moving to the next measure.

Relationship II: Bass plays more than the kick

Example: Bass notes played before the kick attacks support the drum part. The bass note on the and of four leads into the kick on beat one of the next measure.

Relationship III: Bass plays less than the kick

Example: The bass has attacks on beats one and three with no separation between the release of the first note and the attack of the second creating a more connected sound.

Relationships 2 and 3 can also be combined.

 

Compose

BASS + DRUM COMPOSITION

Compose a drum & bass phrase using the three bass + kick rhythmic relationships.

 

Record

BASS + KICK COMPOSITION

  • Know the expectations! Review the Rubric →

  • Choose one of your Bass + Kick relationship compositions.

  • Read the recording instructions below and record your parts.

  • Reflect on how you did with the Self Assessment →

    1. Create a drum + beats track and choose your sound.

    2. Record the drum groove and quantize it to the correct subdivision.

    3. Create a guitar + bass track and choose a bass sound.

    4. Record the bass part and quantize it to the correct subdivision.

    5. Trim the ends of the bass notes to match the releases on the organizer.