Reader Spotlight: Chris Robinson

Meet Chris Robinson, a bassist from New Hampshire who has played in bands as diverse as we’ve seen. Chris is our player in the spotlight for the week of June 19, 2012. (You can be next!)

Bio:

I’ve been playing bass since I was twelve. Since I picked up my first four string, I’ve played in almost every setting and almost every genre, and I’m always looking for more.

I double on electric bass and upright, and I love exploring different sounds and scenarios with each.

Location:

Keene, NH, USA

Day gig:

I’m about to enter my last semester, pursuing a degree in music education. During the summer, I’m a resident assistant and tutor for a summer program on campus.

Years experience:

Nine years, going on 10.

Bands & Gigs:

I’m playing all sorts of gigs with all sorts of players, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I play in a local dance band where we do everything from Frankie Valli to Cee Lo Green. I also play in a rock group called The 123’s, as well as various musicals, jazz combo gigs and the occasional orchestra program.

Gear:

• Warwick Corvette Standard four string
• Tuscan Two Star double bass, flatback, carved top
• Coda Metropolitan carbon fiber bow
• Tech 21 Sans Amp Bass Driver Deluxe
• EBS Multicomp True Dual Band Compressor
• Boss ODB-3 Bass Overdrive
• Boss OC-3 Super Octave
• Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner
• Ampeg BA115 Combo Amp

Why I play the bass:

I heard how Flea and Timmy C. used the bass so unconventionally! I’ve never been one for center-stage spotlight, so I liked how they could be so innovative and exciting while still holding it down and supporting the melodies above them.

My bass superpower/claim to fame

Hmmm, I don’t feel any of my abilities are up to “superpower” status, as everything is always progressing. My motto in my playing is “keep it simple, stupid”. A good player needs to know that the notes he doesn’t play are just as important as those he does play. Don’t sacrifice the groove just to show off your technicality. On the other hand, I live for that moment when the drummer sits down and tells me to lay down something funky.

My influences

In no particular order: Aaron Wills, Tim Commerford, Ray Brown, Tal Wilkenfeld, Juan Alderete, Jaco Pastorius, Pino Palladino, Scott LaFaro, Niels Henning Orsted Pederson, Nick Harmer, Dee Murray, Sergio Vega, Ben Kenney…

More on the web:

• Facebook
• SoundCloud
• The 123’s