Bruce does have some impressive credits. I think the problem is, most of his work does not involve playing the historic left-hand walking B-3 bass that sort of defines the style some of us like so much. His credits indicate work with groups with very good bass players. He's the age of some of us, and M and B players in pop bands from that time were mostly chord holders, not soloists. And, except for guys like Felix (Young Rscals), not many even touched the bass. Also, he may not have been real familiar with the C-1 at the time he did the demo. He was probably attempting to demo the C-1 in a historic style that he doesn't specialize in.
If Steve says the guy can play, I believe he can play. Occasionally, I listen to some of my old projects and really "cringe'.
Chas and I use guys like Jimmy Smith, "Groove" Holmes and others to define whet we perceive to be "talent" in a specific area. Others may not like that style and have no appreciation for what it takes to play it.
This is an arranger forum, and this type of playing is as far removed from arranger work as you can get. Neither Chas or I like arrangers very much...they're tools we only use when absolutely necessary.
That's why it took me almost 5 years to post one of my roughs. I didn't think it belonged here. The work does not involve the use of arrangers. And, I thought the style and purpose was so specific that it wasn't the best representation of ability here.
I'd cut Chas some slack. He's right about the exposure to criticism based on a style no one (or very few here)really appreciates. One long-time member even called it boring, which indicates no familiaization with or appreciation of the art form at all.
I never sit in on commercial jobs. I don't need the attention and the possibility of not gelling with the band is great when playing pop tunes "on the fly". Jazz jams are another thing. Everyone is on the same page, and improvisation is the universal challenge.
Look, we're all slightly different and, again, let's appreciate the differences and quit the pettiness. I still play a B-3 occasionally. I don't like the G-70 or any Yamaha arranger. But, that's who I am.
Others wear funny hats, use MP-3's, call their jobs "shows" (UGH), not "gigs", play animal clubs and nursing homes/assisted living facilities, etc. I don't.
SO WHAT? Let's ALL appreciate the diversity and just STOP THE PETTINESS!
As a group, we're better than all that!
Russ
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