A bit ABOUT ME
DEVELOPING AS A PLAYER
Over time, my musical interests range from the softest, funkiest to the heavy metal and back. I became extremely interested in music at the age of 12.
I was fortunate to be in a neighborhood with some well known local artists who were exceptional players. Gordon Packard was my first bass teacher. Although only a few lessons, he gave me valuable advice. I remember it well, "you dont want to use a pick," ha-ha. He was right and onward I went to Learn Black Sabbaths Iron Man!!!! But it proved over the years extremely helpful to learn as many techniques as possible. Picks sound great in certain areas of music so I am glad I have adopted both methods of attack.
Musically, I was learning everything I could get my hands and ears on. I really listened in on Sade and Seal records along with Peter Gabriel and numerous Motown artists to spice things up a bit. These genres provided me with the knowledge and understanding of a drum and bass "marriage" as well as expanding my melodic and rhythmic library and understanding the value of not over playing.
I was also very influenced by peers, classmates, and close friends in the music community. By listening to so many local unsigned artists I learned that I was a player who was inspired by good songs. The best parts come out of me as a direct response to the way a song hits me. My unconventional approaches to learning my instrument I am proud to say was key in developing "that sound" of my own.
Regardless of the song, artist, or style, I strive to sound like ME and improve on that with every studio or live experience that comes my way.
MY APPROACH
I have developed a voice of my own that I apply to various styles of music. My approach is geared toward the drummers decisions with attention to the rhythm and melody of the vocal lines. I always strive for a bass part that is balanced, melodic, and uniform to what is happening around me musically. There are times when I may be asked to go off and shed for a measure or so but I rarely divert from the plan unless it is requested! I dont fix whats not broken!!
