Things happen that are out of your control and if you want to keep going, you have to be able to make the appropriate adjustments or accommodations.
That’s great intro for a welcome column on a bluegrass web site… he says facetiously or as they say “says no one ever” (whoever they is.)
Almost 20 years ago I acquired my beloved 1939 Kay Bass. I’ve spoken of her often, in this my monthly space here. We have had lots of adventures together, many festivals and many more gigs. A couple of crashes followed by excellent repairs. Always, she gets plenty of comments on her looks.
Relax, she hasn’t passed away or even been sold. in fact there is nothing wrong with this bass at all. As it always is, it is the player that has the problems. This player has two problems closely related. The first is my back. I have had problems with my back for years and combining with my second problem, me getting older, it is getting very difficult, perhaps even precarious, to lug her around.
After the pandemic pandemonium, as things open up, in most weeks I have 4 jams. That’s a bunch of “humping” each week. There are different “access” issues with each of these jam sites. For instance, one is held in a second story room with a winding staircase. Before I get in the front door to get to the stairs, I have to carry my bass and any other accessories I need, about half the length of a football field. Going down the stairs is especially dicey for me even with help. This is not my favorite jam for these logistical issues only and certainly not musically speaking. It is otherwise a good jam.
The other jams have their sets logistical challenges as well. Difficult doors, narrow halls, fences, far away parking, etc.
But enough bitching, what’s the solution? I have one I think will work. I bought an Eminence Electric Upright Bass. There is of course a complete list of specs on this instrument but for me there are two critical ones. First, it is 10 lbs or so lighter than my Kay and secondly it is about a 1/3 of the bulk. Actually, a few more critical specs played into my decision. The string length (bridge to nut) is the same as my bass and the pickup is a David Gage Realist also the same as my Kay.
While it does have some acoustic sound, it is not enough to perform with so it does require an amp. I already have a battery powered Roland Cube that weighs about 15 lbs that I can easily carry and use for casual jams. I also have a professional Acoustic Image Contra Amp that is small but powerful for more “formal” gigs or jams.
As for Bluegrass cred, a few years ago Monroe Crossing a bluegrass band from Minnesota played FDF and their bass player played an Eminence bass, not only on stage but he walked the campground with it jamming.
Then there is Wayne Taylor from Blue Highway, I’m not sure of the brand but he often tours and performs with an electric upright bass. Also listed as owning Eminence basses are Missy Raines and Laurie Lewis. How’s that, do I get Bluegrass credit for this move? Let’s not even talk about jazz.
Where does this put my much loved Kay? It is right where it always is in my studio space, I haven’t abandoned her. I’m going to use the new girl for everyday jams but for any important gigs or recordings my Dirty blond Kay will be the one I bring to the dance.
