Some Music theory 101 noob questions.

[jokerone]

Can somebody tell me what this means?

(1) Playing behind the beat.

Does this mean you are playing after the beat, or does it mean you are playing quieter than the main beat?

(2) Playing to a 5th. of a chord for bass.

Does this mean you are playing single notes of the chord being used in the main song, and if so what does the 5th. mean versus 4th. or 3rd?

thanks.

The video clip that caused the question(s).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-MA7tgqp10

[mjbphotos]

1) After the beat

2) 5th - the fifth interval from the root. Intervals are basic music theory - get a book or take some lessons.
For example, if E is the root note, the B above or below it is the 5th.

[panman79]

1. I think refers to hitting the note on bass a fraction of a second before the kick drum hits. Gives the bass and kick a little more separation in the mix.

2. Using the circle of fifths. If the guitar is playing a D chord then bass should (will naturally sound good) play an A note. If guitar is playing a C then bass might play a G. Check out the circle of fifths.

[jokerone]

1) After the beat

2) 5th - the fifth interval from the root. Intervals are basic music theory - get a book or take some lessons.
For example, if E is the root note, the B above or below it is the 5th.

Got it. thanks.

[Manslick]

1. I think refers to hitting the note on bass a fraction of a second before the kick drum hits. Gives the bass and kick a little more separation in the mix.

Never do this. It sounds like flub. Seperate the kick and bass with panning and EQ not timing.

[jokerone]

Never do this. It sounds like flub. Seperate the kick and bass with panning and EQ not timing.

thanks.
This clip, and the terms used was what I was talking about. maybe it will clear things up a bit.

Rock School Vol 3 - Part 5 of 8 - Reggae Bass & Guitar - YouTube

[Xdrummer]

Playing behind the beat would normally refer to the drummer's roll rather that bass guitar (or any other melodic instrument).

If the drummer plays "behind the beat" it gives the music a slightly more laid back "in the groove" feel. As far at the bass guitar (or other melodic instruments) - they should try to lock in with the drummer - letting the drums set the groove.

As has already been suggested - if the bass is playing to the 5th - it would normally mean the 5th step from the root. As an example, if a song is in the key of A major - when playing to the A chord the bass may build most of the bottom by alternating from the root (A) to the 5th (E) and then when the chord changes - let's say to D major, then the bass may alternate betwwen the root (D) to the 5th (A).

[grimtraveller]

hitting the note on bass a fraction of a second before the kick drum hits. Gives the bass and kick a little more separation in the mix.

Never do this. It sounds like flub. Seperate the kick and bass with panning and EQ not timing.

As far at the bass guitar (or other melodic instruments) - they should try to lock in with the drummer

As a kind of side issue, what exactly do various people mean when they say "the bass should lock in" with the drummer ? Is this meant sonically or arrangement~wise ?

[Manslick]

In my experience locking in with the drummer is aimed at the bass player. They have to be in sync timing wise. Sonics are just as important but timing trumps the sonic imo.

I can attest to audible flub when the kick and bass are off a fraction of a second. I am master at doing this. These two rhythmic elements are the foundation. Now if the song calls for a loose feel they can stray from the center of the beat but they have to be together. The rest can do whatever within limits.

It’s a hard concept to put in typing. But I think you know it when you hear it.

[jokerone]

In my experience locking in with the drummer is aimed at the bass player. They have to be in sync timing wise. Sonics are just as important but timing trumps the sonic imo.

I can attest to audible flub when the kick and bass are off a fraction of a second. I am master at doing this. These two rhythmic elements are the foundation. Now if the song calls for a loose feel they can stray from the center of the beat but they have to be together. The rest can do whatever within limits.

It’s a hard concept to put in typing. But I think you know it when you hear it.

yes, amazing how much different something sounds just being off a 1/16 or so of a beat or even 1/32.