Over the years I have read on many forums and been told by bass players that when they have been to an audition or recording session they have been told to bring a Jazz or P style bass. Has anyone experienced being told to bring an alembic without the band/studio knowing that you have one? Does that even happen?



I do recall reading that Victor Wooten turned up at a recording session with his alembic and was told to get something else and that led to him finding Fodera.

I have been requested to play upright on gigs. And there are times and sessions where I simply choose it because I think it fits. Other than that, nobody cares what bass I play. It's more about being on time, in time, and a solid foundation for the rhythm section.


The bring a "P or J" business doesn't really apply in my world. It may in someone elses. I wouldn't last long there.

I was once fired from a low budget country recording session back in the early 80's for bringing my BC Rich Mockingbird. A year later I got even with the guy cause a band I was in was doing an album with a budget much bigger and our keyboard player wanted to hire the same guy to record it and I said no way was I working with him!

Disclaimer: I in no way denigrate a good P bass and I use my USA Fender P Bass deluxe a lot.
Frankly, a lot of engineers just liked working with tools and signal chains they are familiar with.

And for that matter, has anyone ever heard of a guitarist being told they have to play a Strat?

Peter