Exploring the Value of Studying Krist Novoselic's Bass Lines for Beginners
For novice bass players, the work of Krist Novoselic with Nirvana can be an invaluable resource. As a member of one of the most influential bands in the history of rock, Novoselic's bass playing offers insights and techniques that can greatly enhance a beginner's musical skills.
Deservedly Underrated: Novoselic's Skill with the Fretboard
Novoselic may not always receive the recognition his musical talent deserves, but his contributions to Nirvana are undeniable. From the rhythmically nuanced bass lines in The Lounge Act and Milk It to the emotional depth of his work on “Come as You Are” and “Heart-Shaped Box”, his skills as a bassist are not to be overlooked.
Learning from Admired Artists
It's highly beneficial for new bassists to study the lines played by artists they admire. Learning a line you like, especially from a band you appreciate, can be incredibly motivating. If you are a fan of Nirvana, deducing Novoselic's bass lines can be a rewarding and insightful practice. His inclusion in Nirvana places him in the lineage of legendary bassists and offers a diverse range of styles to explore.
Root Notes and Beyond: A Stepping Stone for Novice Players
Nirvana's basslines often simplify to root notes, which can serve as a great starting point for beginners. Root note playing, while seemingly basic, is essential as it helps to teach consistent fretting and accurate rhythm. While it may seem monotonous at first, this simplicity is crucial for building a strong foundation in playing accurate bass lines.
As a former instructor, I would recommend starting beginner lessons with songs from bands like Weezer or the Pixies. These groups provide a mix of simple root note songs and more complex tunes that illustrate the importance of varied playing styles. Nirvana's songs would fit this category well, providing a balance of simple and intricate musical elements.
Chromatic Basslines and Beyond
For those looking to advance beyond simple root notes, introductions to chromatic lines are key. I often used “Fire” by Jimi Hendrix to introduce chromatic bass techniques. From there, the focus would depend on the student's interests and abilities. If your musical journey leads you to Nirvana, you might consider exploring the bass work done by the Pixies, as Cobain was heavily influenced by their style.
Jamiroquai for Runs Practice
To hone in on advanced techniques, incorporating runs from bands like Jamiroquai can be very helpful. While the specific licks might not be as useful, familiarity with different bassboard runs will greatly enhance your skills and comfort level with the instrument.
In summary, the bass lines of Krist Novoselic in Nirvana offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for beginning bassists. From foundational root notes to advanced chromatic lines, Novoselic's style and practice can provide a solid structure for newcomers to the bass community to build upon. Whether for motivation or technical development, his work remains an invaluable resource for aspiring bass players.