Reader Spotlight: Andrew Humphrey

Andrew Humphrey

Photo by Christopher Corn

Our final reader spotlight of 2015 is here, and we get to share the story of bassist Andrew Humphrey. Andrew gets huge points for his gear list. Check it out, and the rest of his story…

Bio:

Humphrey, aka Hump Diddy Slap Slap or Hard Candy, is a versatile punk and metal bassist with over 15 years experience, playing and recording with bands like Abertooth Lincoln and Subgenius. He has dedicated his musical life to creating innovative bass riffs that are shreddy, funky, yet functional and balanced in a way that enhances the song and emotionally moves the listener. While heavy riffing is his expertise, he draws influences from various jazz and progressive artists to create a truly unique bass experience. He loves going nuts for new crowds and thinking outside of the box whenever possible.

Location:

Oxford, OH, USA

Day gig:

Humphrey works as a digital marketer by day, specializing in search engine marketing for known clients such as Beaumont Hospital and the Pure Michigan campaign.

Years experience:

15 years

Bands & Gigs:

Yes – my current band, Abertooth Lincoln gigs extensively near Southwest Ohio while constantly writing and recording new material. We recently completed a full length-album called Osteoferocious which received notable press from Punknews.org, Ghettoblaster Magazine, New Noise, and more. It is available in digital format, vinyl, and CD.

Gear:

  • Warwick Thumb 4
  • Hartke VX3500
  • Tech 21 SansAmp Bass Driver
  • Awful clothes I find at thrift shops

Why I play the bass:

I fell in love with metal music at a very young age. I went to so many shows, and was immediately drawn into the experience. Slap bassists at the time blew my mind, and I just knew it was something I wanted to do with my life. When I was a youngin, I sprained my wrist at a Les Claypool concert, and it was pretty much my baptism.

My bass superpower/claim to fame:

A hybrid method of picking and slap-style popping. It allows me to shred along with rhythm guitar parts common in thrash and punk while also allowing me to open up my fills to funky and unusual areas. It helps me steer away from played out “funk metal” riffs, but still feature the bass as the rad instrument I know it to be. People ask me about it a lot at our shows, and I think it’s bringing something pretty cool to the table.

My influences:

A lot of the usual bassists – Victor Wooten, Les Claypool, Trevor Dunn, Ryan Martinie, and Matt Freeman. My general musical influences are pretty varied – Mike Patton, Jello Biafra, Chino Moreno, Jamey Jasta – anyone with an interesting life story and passion for their work.

More on the web:

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