Reader Spotlight: Dan Nelson

Dan NelsonMeet Dan Nelson, an 18 year old bassist from Wales and our player in the spotlight for March 29, 2011.

Bio:

I started out on guitar for around six months before a friend showed me a old SG bass copy. From then on, I’ve been hooked on bass. About three years ago I started to get serious and started looking to join some working bands. I also started taking a good look at theory and sight-reading, as having these core skills is extremely beneficial I believe.

Soon after, I joined a cover band who gigs regularly and from there I have gone on to join a Welsh prog rock/pop/fusion band, Godsticks, who gig all over the UK and Europe.

I am always looking to improve my playing to be the best I possibly can, as I like to be available to all styles. I also sub for bands who need someone quickly to cover for them when I can.

Location:

Cardiff, Wales

Day gig:

I play in a cover band two to three times a week. I also attend college three days a week. Next year I start at BIMM Bristol university.

Years experience:

6 years

Bands & Gigs:

My main gig is with Godsticks. We have a debut album out called Spiral Vendetta, that none other than Bryan Beller played bass on. The band then brought me in to replicate that album in a live setting. Ideas for a second album have started, but due to the complexity of the music, it wont be completed until well into 2012.

Gear:

  • Fender Jazz 4 String (Hipshot De-tuner)
  • Status Energy 5 String
  • Ibanez roadstar 11 precision
  • Hartke lh1000
  • Barefaced Big Baby CAB
  • TC electronic Polytune
  • Boss OC-3
  • MRX DI
  • EBS Multi-Comp

Why I play the bass:

It was probably watching Red Hot Chili Peppers on Youtube and seeing Flea as a real central figure in the band. I believe that was a big factor.

My bass superpower/claim to fame

I’m confident in being able to play many different styles. I like to be as versatile as I can be to allow me to be available to gig/record in as many scenarios as possible.

My influences

Bryan Beller, Paul Turner, Chris Squire, Marcus Miller, Jaco Pastorius, Pino Palladino, Flea, Nathan East… to name a few.

More on the web:

Want to be featured in an upcoming Reader Spotlight? Just fill out the interview questionnaire.

Get daily bass updates.

Get the latest news, videos, lessons, and more in your inbox every morning.

Share your thoughts

  1. Steve Wicks

    I’ve seen this ‘kid’ on youtube and to be frank he is an amateur, who has a hell of a lot to learn if he wants to be like flea! He’s more than welcome to practise with me, but he will never be as good as me.