Hey Matt,

big fan of CC and your playing – one sound that really stands out for me is “I Wish I was a Girl” what bass did you use for this? Played with a pick surely?

Luke

Hi Smokey! Yes – it’s a ‘64 P-bass with a pick. Flatwound strings. I’m not sure what pre-amp, direct box etc was used at the time but it’s definitely that bass set up. One of my favorites for recording. Thanks for stopping by! Matt

Might of known it was a P bass, probably the most distinctive bass tone along with Rics.
I am more of a Ric man myself – have you recorded with a Rickenbacker at all on any CC tracks?

I do love the Rick as well! I actually bought one of two that I currently own back in ‘01 during the “Hard Candy” recording sessions – it’s a V63, natural finish. I love it – I’m a big fan of the unbound neck and body – but it didn’t end up on that or any other C. Crows records. The other one I have is a Chris Squire. I love them both to pieces – the V63 has a slightly bigger neck, otherwise they’re identical basses – but the Squire has a better, livelier sound. I want to get those annoying horseshoe pick-up covers off one of these days but I hear you have to buy a “replacement kit” to do it. I want a black one one of these days as well…it’s a sickness I tell you…

V63 and Chris Squire Sig… nice choice.
I have ‘97 4003, a C64 fireglow, and C64S wings bass. the horseshoes on the vintage style Rics are part of the actual pickup where as on the 4003 it is just a plastic cover, I have been using Rics pretty much exclusively since I got my first in 1997, and I switch between pic and fingers so I kind of like the pickup rest, but I understand why some don’t.

It’s great to hear from you. great website.

Thanks Smokey!! Wow – the Fireglow C64…now THAT is a cool bass. I played a wings bass but I’m not a fan of the satin finish…or whatever it’s called. Your Fireglow sounds awesome – early Roger Waters…psychedelic Floyd era bass! Rics are some of the best basses around – if you ever get the chance, play a Lakland. I’m sold on his basses – I have a Decade model coming as well as a hollowbody and I can’t sleep at night thinking about them…