Best of 2018: The Top 10 “Ask Damian Erskine” Columns
We’ve been so grateful to Damian Erskine over the nine-plus years he’s worked with us. Every Wednesday, Damian thoughtfully answers a reader’s question – which often spans many, many topics. In celebration of his popular “Ask” column, here are his top 10 reader favorites in 2018.
1. Should I Use A Compressor with My Bass?
In this column, Damian responds to a reader’s question on the subject of using a compressor…
2. Is Rhythmic Tapping Okay in a Band Setting?
Damian responds to a reader who said he often taps to the beat of the drums, and wonders if that’s common – and what to do about it…
3. Practicing Scales vs. Arpeggios
In this column, a reader asks, “should I spend my time in the shed practicing scales or arpeggios? Why one over the other?” Damian has the answers…
4. Tips for Being a Professional Bassist
Over the years, Damian has fielded quite a few questions about what it takes to be a pro. In this column, he responds to one of those questions…
5. What Should I Play At Soundcheck?
It seems simple, but a lot of us struggle with what to play during soundcheck. This is the focus of this “Ask Damian” column…
6. Is Bass Face Okay on the Gig? A Discussion on Stage Presence
If you’re a bass player, you know all too well the concept of “Bass Face.” In this column, a reader asks Damian for his thoughts on the subject, and whether or not “bass face” is acceptable during a live performance…
7. Troubleshooting a Clicking Sound From Your Bass
In this column, a reader expands on the subject of “active vs. passive” – and in particular, what to do about the clicking sound he gets while playing. Damian turned over this column to Carey Nordstrand…
8. Learning Tunes: A Checklist for Bass Players
In response to this reader’s question, Damian shares a few thoughts related to learning tunes – and many of his realizations came as a result of trying to learn tunes in all of the wrong ways…
9. Dealing with Focal Dystonia: Resources for Bass Players
Many bass players eventually face a condition that makes playing a challenge. In this column, Damian responds to dealing with Focal Dystonia and cites various resources…
10. Exercise For Unlocking The Fretboard
Damian offered up a handful of video-focused columns this year, including this one on unlocking the fretboard…
Have a question for Damian Erskine? Send it to [email protected]. Check out Damian’s instructional books, Right Hand Drive and The Improviser’s Path.
No bass-related comments from me, but just to say how wonderful DE is, as a musician AND as a human being. Always on-point musically, and as humble as the day is long. Bless you, sir. ?