Highly skilled Bassist / Vocalist seeking dedicated musicians

Berkeley CA

Description

If you really want to respond to this, and want the best chance of a reply from me, it would be smart to read at least most of this ad before hitting REPLY and find out what I am looking for. Hint: I am looking for quality, and the ability to read and comprehend is a good beginning. I am open to forming a new project or joining an existing one. As I do compose and sing I want to get my own material out but I would also consider joining an existing project similar to what I am trying to build. Initially it is about the music right? I play a mix of primarily originals with a few covers thrown in for familiarity. I mix a lot of styles but play sets based on rock with funk, jazz, Caribbean and other world influences. I like mixing syncopation with dance styles and collective improvisation mixed with “playing for the song”. My lyrics center around life/social observation (climate, politics, greed) as well as good times (dance dance dance.) I also lean towards collaboration so if you write too I would love to hear your contributions, keeping in mind the band’s focus (e.g., mixing metal with Americana usually does not result in finding work in clubs) Apologies for all the obvious stuff that follows but, well, this is the CL community so you probably get why I am writing this. This isn’t my first band and though music is fun this band isn’t just about jamming. The rest of it is business: attracting an audience (online and in performance), respect for each other’s time (punctuality for rehearsals and gigs, learning the material on your own, acting like an adult, cooperation) - we all want this stuff. We all may love divas, druggies, alcoholics,, flakes, and fools but most of us do not want them in our bands. Moderation is key and life is short, especially during a pandemic. That rock star stuff only works if you have huge talent as well as Angel-funding. You also need to be vaccinated, of course, and willing to take tests and other appropriate measures if we want to, say, tour. This is common sense. Being pro is not necessarily about money, especially with a new project, but playing for free usually means playing alone in a park somewhere and we want to get on stage again once Covid is under control. I am a seasoned, skilled pro but I am willing to work with less experienced musicians who are dedicated to excellence, not just faking it trying to get laid. I have led bands, worked as a sideman and everything in between. The most successful arrangements have been with folks who work together and put time and resources into moving the band towards our goals. Remember the highly successful SF bands in the 60’s? (not to mention modern successful bands.) It’s either work together or get an agent and most agents will not touch a project without some documented proof of intention and a track record. I have a lot of material to demonstrate what I do and what I am looking for that I can easily share. Most of us pros will not respond without some proof of ability and since most normal people at least have phones, responding to ads without verifying your skills just shows your lack of commitment. I look forward to hearing from you. Share something to tell me what you are working towards and what you want to do with music. Initially a guitarist, another skilled vocalist (harmonies and leads) and a drummer will get us started. Of course I know a lot of other musicians but I am trying something different here. A diverse band would be wonderful. Keys, horns, percussion players are also encouraged to apply. Women, men, and people from other cultures and planets are welcome, as long as you can play. Thanks for reading.