I'm a guitarist/singer, and the three-piece band is by far my favourite setup. No one can hide, so everyone has to up their game. And not be afraid to make music with lots of spaces, as well as a more full sound. Also, once a three-piece band has played together for a while, they can improvise without anyone getting lost. The more musicians in the band, the more rigidly the performance must follow a programme.
I loved being the guitarist/singer in a trio, but after many years, I got sick of the responsibility. I liked playing in a trio when I was young, playing with loud, assertive power trio-type bass players and drummers, but over time, I felt like I was the only one in the band who had to go out on a limb technically and emotionally every single show. Since I was the guy with the songs and ego, I also had to try to keep the other players interested. I started to prefer being a co-guitar player/co lead singer. But I'm probably happier playing bass. When bandmates start to stress out, I start to imagine myself as the guy who gets paid per diem, even though I write most of the music.
@@jkf9167 That's an interesting perspective. I only ever play covers, and have no interest in playing original music. In my bands, the vocal workload has always been shared.
@@ParaBellum2024 I've shared the stage in bands with some excellent co-lead singers, who were much more accomplished than I am, but not in a trio, and my longest-running bands until recently were trios that I fronted.
I’ve played in a few trios but I haven’t gone as far as touring (almost did). It was lot of improv, playing R&B, jazz, blues-based music so we naturally filled in the spaces. But it’s exactly what you said. You’re always on but you have to do it tastefully, which is what improves your musicianship.
I’ve been playing bass for over 50 years and I’m here to say that it’s the responsibility of the bass in a three piece be it a piano, rock, blues, jazz, or even country band to keep it all together. Not percussion or third member instrument. The bass player keeps the rhythm happening, sets the tone and the mood of the song. Bass has got to hold down and at the same time cover harmony and fill the gaps. Bass must create the feeling that more, yes more musicians are preforming. A good bass player does this and more without the hoopla of being “out front” or needing a solo spot. He or in a lot of times SHE is the hub and rarely noticed until they aren’t there then they are missed. A great bass player is always heard but rarely ever noticed. I have been very fortunate to play in some wonderful bands but it has always been the 3 piece groups that were the most enjoyable and made me a better musician. They were the most challenging and interesting. To me it’s always been the trio’s that rule. Good luck on all of your endeavors and enjoy life, it’s short. Sincerely, Pops Fitch Post Script: my input…..sometimes the best note is the one not played.
Love these kinds of videos; I’m hoping to one day get to tour so seeing your experience and other experiences adds some helpful insight into everything for me!
I'm in Australia and I have heard a lot of good things about Sweet Water. About 2 or 3 years ago I ordered 3 sets of Rotosound Jazz Flat bass strings from them and their service was awesome, and the price was better than in Australia including the postage.
This video is my first exposure to you and your playing, and wow you are really great. Love the behind the scenes - and as a bass player myself I love your take on playing in a trio!
I did the trio act 1st as a lead guitarist which is easy if you know your guitar inside and out. I’ve done the bassist part too and I really dug that. You have to really be creative, know the bass like your putting your shoes on. I loved walking through the chords, the changing on a dime. Listening to where the lead guitar is taking you and feeling safe and at home in the pocket I love being a bassist the most
Travis, great vid! Keep 'em coming. 69 year old bass player here. Still gigging locally, but only during warm months now. You are correct sir, every note counts and your lead and back ground singing as well. I've spent half of my bass playing life gigging in a trio singing and playing. Fun stuff! You guys sound great.
I’ve played in a few trio bands mainly playing emo, post punk types of music and it helped me be more dynamic with the instrument taking more of a lead role with the guitar playing more rhythmically
Totally. There is much more space to get creative with only one guitar player. You can noodle around and play thirds and extended arpeggios, during solos you can play chords or use effects to fill up the space, etc (do all the fun stuff that often clashes with a second guitar player)
Mimoso is a famous Mexican singer from banda music. I think it's cool that musicians of all genres go around and run into each other....haha...I play bass in a Mexican band, that has actually opened for Mimoso, but yeah I'm with you about the cold weather. I remember my first tour and being in DeMoines, and was not a fan of the cold, I swore I would quit because of it, glad I didn't...haha..Awesome content man.
Travis, man, thank you for sharing your journey. It is a joy to see growth and the way you have allowed us to be on the journey. I enjoy the content you are producing. Yes, you are a producer! The product you provide in less than 30 minutes is captivating. Remain in the Lord daily, as the more "famous" you become, people and companies will attempt to make you pivot from the Lord and compromise the very tenets of the faith. I pray God keeps you safe and continues to show His love toward you and your wife. I also pray you respond to me email by the way, in Jesus name...Amen!
Hey there! I just recently stumbled upon your channel within the last couple of months or so and as a bassist that's been playing for over 20 years I'm glad I was able to find it. From what I have seen I'd say we have radically different styles and play very different genres of music in bands but that doesn't change the fact that the videos you post can teach me so much more and give me a more round about style of playing that I can interpret and use as influence to my style and kinds of music I play. For that I very much humbly thank you Travis. As for my opinion on if it's harder to play in a 3 piece or not, I'd say in some ways it can be but mostly it just makes you approach what effect on what parts and the overall song you're gonna have differently. In a 3 piece you're not just laying down and filling up the foundation with the drummer. You are also gonna usually be the main bridge between the drums and guitar as well. As well as playing off the guitar and ocasionally the vocal melody. Then with all that new open space you're playing in, you gotta know how to construct it just right so it's not too busy, too jarring or too out of context. For me the harder part is taking all that from a 3 piece then applying it to a 4 or 5 piece. The time's I've had the oppertunity to do that myself I consider some of the best music I've ever written and been apart of writing. Keep groovin and vibing!
Theses travel/touring behind the scene vlogs are a great to watch. Playing in a trio can be challenging and your musicianship has to be on point. This was a great video.
Depends whether its more difficult or not. I feel that in a more contemporary trio where you play rock or pop then its not that different. But if its jazz trio with a piano player then you have more responsibilities than just pocket/comping. On the flipside, I think that a horn trio (drums, bass, horn) lets you take the harmony role without having to follow a pianist. But then thats your job to be harmonically interesting.
I played in a mostly original Rock trio for years. I loved it! As someone who played in larger bands before, I found it more enjoyable. It helped that I was a co-writer and arranger whereas the other bands I played in were not interested in my input. FYI, I recently recorded a 3 song EP and my solo debut album. BTW, you're an amazing musician Travis!
Really enjoyed this video. Well done. BTW, for me playing bass in a trio (Jimi Hendrix Coverband) has been the most fulfilling setting in 30 years musicianship.
Hey Travis ! I loved this video.. Love the " Behind the scenes " Videos... I am a new subscriber.. So far. I have only watched a couple of you videos but, 2 things.... Love your professional skills and, manners... Also, Love your Heart ! you are the kind of guy I could hang around with ! I don't have a big or , active youtube channel... More known as Mark and Brenda vlogs on RUclips... Lately... That is not active.. My wife and I are more focused on Live P&W for House of Prayer... I have played many bands for decades.. Was mainly a bassist.. Now turned Keyboardist.. I have to say... Touring day to day and, long day travels seem like a huge demand.. anyhow... Love your channel ! Blessings to you my friend !
I’m a bassist and the GRAND majority of my giging career has been playing in trios. It can be difficult cause the bassist holds a huge responsability in filling up the auditive gaps in the band but the guitarist also needs to have his sound ready for the trio and the singer needs to also handle the mic well and sing so the band doesn’t sound empty. In the trios I’ve played with guitarist that have their sound set up in a say that it doesn’t matter if they’re playing chords or soloing, it sounds full and that is very important.
Great video. I do a lot of trio gigs and find that synth pedals or multi octave pedals with blend knobs help give the feel of another instrument. Also looping a bass line and chording or tapping over the loop helps to add a part or color that can’t be done without an additional member.
Nearly every show I've every played has been in a trio. Right now, I'm playing bass in a quartet with a non-instrument-playing singer, so in instrumental terms it's a trio. I love it. It really makes you focus on making your style distinctive and functional. In the past, I've played guitar and fronted trios. That's exciting because of the flexibility, but it's exhausting, especially if the drums and bass have a laid back playing style. You've got to go from one thing where you're the center of attention (singing), to another (guitar solo), and you've got to keep your guitar sounding good while you sing. Now that I'm playing bass in a band with a lead singer, the only singing I do is gang backups, so I don't need to worry if I'm gonna forget lyrics or get a sore throat. I get to concentrate on making up cool parts and playing them well with the other musicians. I'd always wanted to be part of a rhythm section. I still get to "write music," but that mainly consists of throwing some parts together and handing them off to the guy with the notebook.
My performance years are now well behind me. This I can say or rather echo as have others suggested, Trio is so cool. because of the requirement to stay present. It is always your 'A' game. I worked with 3-4 Blues trios in the 90s. Played bass and loved it. My personal best was to be working 7 nights a week w 4 different bands. That is when I nailed my pocket. Now a memory from a long time back. But ever grateful I was allowed the life experience.
It's harder but way more fun , dont have a rhythm guitar to step on you lines and you can hear yourself much better and your so much more freedom to express yourself, love it !
@Official_Travis_Dykes freedom to play fills to make up for not having second guitar or other instruments! Makes for more interesting basslines but also keeps you on your game realizing it's all you so it better be on the groove !
Great video. My older brother lost his sight at 65, sooo we formed a three piece band from myself, Chris my Bro and an old friend on lead. Chris & I played in a cover band back in the 80's. Myself on Bass & Chris on Rythm guitar. Zoom to NOW! He is now our main singer (and rythm), I ditched transcribing to reading notation & doing theory on the net, and our lead guitarist is fantastic, as he played mostly Shadows. We are still a garage band but have done a few Gigs at local pubs. BTW you did amazingly well in your trips. Here In Australia we have similar drives just to get to thde next major city.
This was a great Video, It brings back memories in the 1970's When I used to tour with a Jazz rock group. We did not have the recording equipment back then like you do now. Great Job. Dave
Depending on the guitar player’s style you’ll need to modify your playing. A good example of a trio is U2. The Edge tends to play high and it forces Adam Clayton to really fill in the space. People question his skills, however when you take a deeper look they are simple but effective and done on purpose.
Such a great video, Travis. You guys sounded great! I love playing in a trio context, particularly one where you have room to improvise. Every note holds so much power - a single decision can take you down a whole different harmonic journey. Much harder (but not impossible) to do that in a larger band context.
“El Mimoso” Luis Antonio Lopez He was the lead vocalist for that famous Mexican regional Banda El Recodo. Now he’s a touring as a soloist singing the bands hits and his originals.
I enjoy your videos of a “working bassist”. Keep them coming. Some of the best music has been made by trios: Hendrix, Cream, SRV. Cheers and Well Done!
Trio set up is my favorite. You have a lot more room to breathe and you can really control if you wanna leave space or fill it up. Coming from a blues background, it's my ideal configuration
I had to laugh when you called the guitarist out on the Mario look. I thought he would be a cross between Mario and Dan Akroyd. Maybe even Ron Burgundy! 🤣 Seriously though... Thanks for sharing the real story! I pay bass in a power trio and you are spot on.
Great playing and love the tone. The satisfaction of your tone is half the battle on stage. Especially with a 3 piece. I played many a 3 peice bands when I first started and it was frustrating. I had to learn not to make too much of what I felt was missing. I also started to respect laying back at times, and how. Its work. I'm glad I was open to criticism so thats where I learned a lot about Listening instead of just playing. Then again, that was the early 70's so music did require some stand out bass. I have not playd a 3 peice Band for years now but I do a few Jam sessions live like that. Brings back all the things you learned and it is fun now, not as much worry about, am I doing this ok. Hey, you guys sounded great on the short videos you had. Thanks for sharing.
With your X-vive setup, I see you have it attached to a cable. Why is that? Does having it on a cable shorten the distance between you and the transmitter?
I played bass with a guitarist/singer & tambourine/backing singer. nowhere to hide there! Especially with my talent level. It was great fun though & I learnt very quickly.
I played bass in a three piece hard rock band, think A Perfect Circle meets Creed. Most fun I’ve ever had. In my opinion, we had more freedom to fill in the spaces…or let the spaces be. It’s less crowded too. Kind of like a two person volleyball team vs a six player team. More ground to cover, yet less clutter.
Trio’s are a lot of fun on bass because There is a lot more freedom to get creative. Once you add all the other instruments the role of the bassist changes to something more subtle and restricted but in a trio you get to fill out those places where the other instruments normally sits. I also find trios allow you to have more mids in your tone which is always fun but seldom appropriate.
Great video. You are right about every note counting in a trio, which I guess does add to the pressure. But I think bass, guitar, drums is easier to keep tight when you 1st get together than a full band. So swings and roundabouts I think.
Hey Travis, nice video, cool to see the backstage stuff!! Regarding you in-ears... seems like you must have hit the incompetent sound engineer?? Your ears feed should NEVER come from the mains / FoH mix. That's why modern mixers have a TON of busses & AUX outputs on them... send out unique mixes for stage monitors and in-ears monitors. Ideally, a competent engineer will set up a unique mix for each member of the band using ears, and then adjust any stage wedges (if there are any) to the taste of those who still like using that method of monitoring. Also, just a word of caution regarding those Xvive boxes (same applies to all of them, ears, mics, guitars, etc). They are using the 2.4GHz WiFi band, which is usually jam packed with other devices at most venues. In the USA there are literally only 11 channels in the 2.4GHz band, and it doesn't take a very large venue to have some kind of device using most or all of them. I'm glad they are working well for you, but you eventually will end up at a venue where they are just not going to give you a reliable connection. And in my experience the max distance between the transmit & receive boxes is very short. It would be well worth your while to consider the low end Sennheiser XSW ears that are in the UHF band (probably the cheapest brand name option), or any other similar product. Not as convenient to carry around, but you can get a nice little SKB or Gator case for the setup easily enough.
I work with a trio with a vocalist out front. I love trio work...the advantage and depending...disadvantage is you have to step up your game. There's no where to hide. IN a band setting 5 piece and up, you can lay back. In a trio setting,the audience may not know but your band mates know when you're off. And yes, every time you play, it's a learning experience. But then again, what do I know? I play the bass, but wait this IS what it's about.
interesting point to consider....indeed there is a big difference between the way of playing the bass (and the guitar)with a main/standard band and a trio...somehow they both must fullfill to achieve a rich harmonic orchestration..🤔 🎻🎻
I've pretty much only ever played in trios for my performing life. I almost always play bass and am the lead singer/songwriter in the first proper group I've started. In my opinion, having a great guitarist makes all the difference. I was in a trio with a weak frontman with weak technical ability and nobody had good things to say about us. When people hear my new band with a fantastic guitarist, even though I think I'm not the greatest singer, people say that it sounds amazing. In recordings it sounds full as he plays rhythm and lead in a really creative way and he really knows his way around that fretboard. Get yourself a good guitarist and you'll be in a great position!
Very cool video! Thanks for posting. Have a question though... Do you have a back up bass (just in case?) And YES playing in a trio is awesome (Less drama too!)
I love trios. You have so much opportunity to take chances and make something happen ( with the right guys). BTW I caught a glimpse of what you guys are eating while you are on the road. Not good. I saw a Jimmy Haslip interview and he was talking about eating healthy food and exercising while on the road. That's what I used to do back in the day. He's old( like me) and he's still keeping it together in a big way. Also...to really enjoy winter you need to learn how to ski. There is nothing like it.
I learned to play drums and that helped me so much as a bass player. The groove should be there with just bass and drums, that will inspire the guitar player. It only works if you have experienced players who listen to and play off each other, and can leave space for the music to breathe.
So many times, the quest for bigger, more complex, more involved music production is the goal. The product is cluttered, many times. Playing in a trio is all I'll ever do. Less personalities to manage and THE SPACE is so appreciated. Now, you have to know what you're doing as there is no place to hide.
i've been playing bass in a trio (Ataraxis, check us out) for 3 years, i definitely agree it's harder! you have to contribute so much more to the band and the shows, but i love it! great video, you really capture what its like doing a week long tour, my first gig was a 1 week tour and i had no idea what i'd signed up for, but it was the fuel to continue doing shows to this day
It definitely fosters more creativity due to more sonic space (in my experience). Mistakes are more noticeable too. 🤷♂️ Loving your content. Thank you👍
I have played bass in many band configs w/the largest being a Gospel band which was a 12-piece band, & down to duos. But my most common config IS a trio. You definitely feel naked on stage & you can’t hide, but at this point I’m used to it.
The trolley work 😂😂 I love this stuff I’m from Australia and I’m coming to Nashville for the first time start of April! Any venues I should check out for regular jams and connections?
Nirvana was a trio for a while, also another one of my favorite bands... The Violent Femmes. Their drummer just used a snare and a cymbal I think. He might have used a kick drum, but I don't think he did. 😁
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
I'm a guitarist/singer, and the three-piece band is by far my favourite setup. No one can hide, so everyone has to up their game. And not be afraid to make music with lots of spaces, as well as a more full sound. Also, once a three-piece band has played together for a while, they can improvise without anyone getting lost. The more musicians in the band, the more rigidly the performance must follow a programme.
Very interesting information, thank you.
Can Confirm. I played bass and shared vocals in a band for almost 20 years and it was the best musical experience of my life.
I loved being the guitarist/singer in a trio, but after many years, I got sick of the responsibility. I liked playing in a trio when I was young, playing with loud, assertive power trio-type bass players and drummers, but over time, I felt like I was the only one in the band who had to go out on a limb technically and emotionally every single show. Since I was the guy with the songs and ego, I also had to try to keep the other players interested. I started to prefer being a co-guitar player/co lead singer. But I'm probably happier playing bass. When bandmates start to stress out, I start to imagine myself as the guy who gets paid per diem, even though I write most of the music.
@@jkf9167 That's an interesting perspective. I only ever play covers, and have no interest in playing original music. In my bands, the vocal workload has always been shared.
@@ParaBellum2024 I've shared the stage in bands with some excellent co-lead singers, who were much more accomplished than I am, but not in a trio, and my longest-running bands until recently were trios that I fronted.
I’ve played in a few trios but I haven’t gone as far as touring (almost did). It was lot of improv, playing R&B, jazz, blues-based music so we naturally filled in the spaces. But it’s exactly what you said. You’re always on but you have to do it tastefully, which is what improves your musicianship.
I’ve been playing bass for over 50 years and I’m here to say that it’s the responsibility of the bass in a three piece be it a piano, rock, blues, jazz, or even country band to keep it all together. Not percussion or third member instrument. The bass player keeps the rhythm happening, sets the tone and the mood of the song. Bass has got to hold down and at the same time cover harmony and fill the gaps. Bass must create the feeling that more, yes more musicians are preforming. A good bass player does this and more without the hoopla of being “out front” or needing a solo spot. He or in a lot of times SHE is the hub and rarely noticed until they aren’t there then they are missed. A great bass player is always heard but rarely ever noticed. I have been very fortunate to play in some wonderful bands but it has always been the 3 piece groups that were the most enjoyable and made me a better musician. They were the most challenging and interesting. To me it’s always been the trio’s that rule. Good luck on all of your endeavors and enjoy life, it’s short. Sincerely, Pops Fitch
Post Script: my input…..sometimes the best note is the one not played.
Love these kinds of videos; I’m hoping to one day get to tour so seeing your experience and other experiences adds some helpful insight into everything for me!
I'm in Australia and I have heard a lot of good things about Sweet Water. About 2 or 3 years ago I ordered 3 sets of Rotosound Jazz Flat bass strings from them and their service was awesome, and the price was better than in Australia including the postage.
Sweetwater is my fave!
Dude, this was so entertaining. I really enjoyed the behind the scenes aspect and the rigors of a tour like this.
This video is my first exposure to you and your playing, and wow you are really great. Love the behind the scenes - and as a bass player myself I love your take on playing in a trio!
Thanks for taking us along with you.
I did the trio act 1st as a lead guitarist which is easy if you know your guitar inside and out. I’ve done the bassist part too and I really dug that. You have to really be creative, know the bass like your putting your shoes on. I loved walking through the chords, the changing on a dime. Listening to where the lead guitar is taking you and feeling safe and at home in the pocket I love being a bassist the most
Travis, great vid! Keep 'em coming. 69 year old bass player here. Still gigging locally, but only during warm months now. You are correct sir, every note counts and your lead and back ground singing as well. I've spent half of my bass playing life gigging in a trio singing and playing. Fun stuff! You guys sound great.
I’ve played in a few trio bands mainly playing emo, post punk types of music and it helped me be more dynamic with the instrument taking more of a lead role with the guitar playing more rhythmically
Totally. There is much more space to get creative with only one guitar player. You can noodle around and play thirds and extended arpeggios, during solos you can play chords or use effects to fill up the space, etc (do all the fun stuff that often clashes with a second guitar player)
Mimoso is a famous Mexican singer from banda music. I think it's cool that musicians of all genres go around and run into each other....haha...I play bass in a Mexican band, that has actually opened for Mimoso, but yeah I'm with you about the cold weather. I remember my first tour and being in DeMoines, and was not a fan of the cold, I swore I would quit because of it, glad I didn't...haha..Awesome content man.
Travis, man, thank you for sharing your journey. It is a joy to see growth and the way you have allowed us to be on the journey. I enjoy the content you are producing. Yes, you are a producer! The product you provide in less than 30 minutes is captivating. Remain in the Lord daily, as the more "famous" you become, people and companies will attempt to make you pivot from the Lord and compromise the very tenets of the faith. I pray God keeps you safe and continues to show His love toward you and your wife. I also pray you respond to me email by the way, in Jesus name...Amen!
Love the behind the scene video travis really cool. And yes playing in a trio is certainly more challenging.
I'm enjoying this channel very much and yes more vlogs of gigs/touring, its fun too watch.
Yeah what you’ve done is great, it’s nice to see what goes on behind the scenes. And what band members go through.
Hey there! I just recently stumbled upon your channel within the last couple of months or so and as a bassist that's been playing for over 20 years I'm glad I was able to find it. From what I have seen I'd say we have radically different styles and play very different genres of music in bands but that doesn't change the fact that the videos you post can teach me so much more and give me a more round about style of playing that I can interpret and use as influence to my style and kinds of music I play. For that I very much humbly thank you Travis.
As for my opinion on if it's harder to play in a 3 piece or not, I'd say in some ways it can be but mostly it just makes you approach what effect on what parts and the overall song you're gonna have differently. In a 3 piece you're not just laying down and filling up the foundation with the drummer. You are also gonna usually be the main bridge between the drums and guitar as well. As well as playing off the guitar and ocasionally the vocal melody. Then with all that new open space you're playing in, you gotta know how to construct it just right so it's not too busy, too jarring or too out of context.
For me the harder part is taking all that from a 3 piece then applying it to a 4 or 5 piece. The time's I've had the oppertunity to do that myself I consider some of the best music I've ever written and been apart of writing.
Keep groovin and vibing!
Theses travel/touring behind the scene vlogs are a great to watch. Playing in a trio can be challenging and your musicianship has to be on point. This was a great video.
Depends whether its more difficult or not. I feel that in a more contemporary trio where you play rock or pop then its not that different. But if its jazz trio with a piano player then you have more responsibilities than just pocket/comping. On the flipside, I think that a horn trio (drums, bass, horn) lets you take the harmony role without having to follow a pianist. But then thats your job to be harmonically interesting.
I love that perspective!
I played in a mostly original Rock trio for years. I loved it! As someone who played in larger bands before, I found it more enjoyable. It helped that I was a co-writer and arranger whereas the other bands I played in were not interested in my input. FYI, I recently recorded a 3 song EP and my solo debut album. BTW, you're an amazing musician Travis!
Thanks for this behind the scenes look! Super fun stuff Travis.
Sick vid. Content was my strike zone. Excellent production as well. Nice play!
Really enjoyed this video. Well done. BTW, for me playing bass in a trio (Jimi Hendrix Coverband) has been the most fulfilling setting in 30 years musicianship.
Hey Travis ! I loved this video.. Love the " Behind the scenes " Videos... I am a new subscriber.. So far. I have only watched a couple of you videos but, 2 things.... Love your professional skills and, manners... Also, Love your Heart ! you are the kind of guy I could hang around with ! I don't have a big or , active youtube channel... More known as Mark and Brenda vlogs on RUclips... Lately... That is not active.. My wife and I are more focused on Live P&W for House of Prayer... I have played many bands for decades.. Was mainly a bassist.. Now turned Keyboardist.. I have to say... Touring day to day and, long day travels seem like a huge demand.. anyhow... Love your channel ! Blessings to you my friend !
I’m a bassist and the GRAND majority of my giging career has been playing in trios. It can be difficult cause the bassist holds a huge responsability in filling up the auditive gaps in the band but the guitarist also needs to have his sound ready for the trio and the singer needs to also handle the mic well and sing so the band doesn’t sound empty. In the trios I’ve played with guitarist that have their sound set up in a say that it doesn’t matter if they’re playing chords or soloing, it sounds full and that is very important.
Great video. I do a lot of trio gigs and find that synth pedals or multi octave pedals with blend knobs help give the feel of another instrument. Also looping a bass line and chording or tapping over the loop helps to add a part or color that can’t be done without an additional member.
Great videos Travis. I really enjoy your content. Original style, intelligent and great topics. Bass player from England here.
I really like this style of video!! You’re very relatable and calming personality!
It was so great meeting you all and seeing the show in KC! Great bts video, keep up the good work!
Nearly every show I've every played has been in a trio. Right now, I'm playing bass in a quartet with a non-instrument-playing singer, so in instrumental terms it's a trio. I love it. It really makes you focus on making your style distinctive and functional. In the past, I've played guitar and fronted trios. That's exciting because of the flexibility, but it's exhausting, especially if the drums and bass have a laid back playing style. You've got to go from one thing where you're the center of attention (singing), to another (guitar solo), and you've got to keep your guitar sounding good while you sing. Now that I'm playing bass in a band with a lead singer, the only singing I do is gang backups, so I don't need to worry if I'm gonna forget lyrics or get a sore throat. I get to concentrate on making up cool parts and playing them well with the other musicians. I'd always wanted to be part of a rhythm section.
I still get to "write music," but that mainly consists of throwing some parts together and handing them off to the guy with the notebook.
My performance years are now well behind me. This I can say or rather echo as have others suggested, Trio is so cool. because of the requirement to stay present. It is always your 'A' game. I worked with 3-4 Blues trios in the 90s. Played bass and loved it. My personal best was to be working 7 nights a week w 4 different bands. That is when I nailed my pocket. Now a memory from a long time back. But ever grateful I was allowed the life experience.
It's harder but way more fun , dont have a rhythm guitar to step on you lines and you can hear yourself much better and your so much more freedom to express yourself, love it !
@Official_Travis_Dykes freedom to play fills to make up for not having second guitar or other instruments! Makes for more interesting basslines but also keeps you on your game realizing it's all you so it better be on the groove !
Yes, behind the scenes videos are great. I find your videos to be very interesting. You do a great job. Thanks.
Keep them coming Travis they are great 23:45
Great video. My older brother lost his sight at 65, sooo we formed a three piece band from myself, Chris my Bro and an old friend on lead. Chris & I played in a cover band back in the 80's. Myself on Bass & Chris on Rythm guitar. Zoom to NOW! He is now our main singer (and rythm), I ditched transcribing to reading notation & doing theory on the net, and our lead guitarist is fantastic, as he played mostly Shadows. We are still a garage band but have done a few Gigs at local pubs. BTW you did amazingly well in your trips. Here In Australia we have similar drives just to get to thde next major city.
This was a great Video, It brings back memories in the 1970's When I used to tour with a Jazz rock group. We did not have the recording equipment back then like you do now. Great Job. Dave
Depending on the guitar player’s style you’ll need to modify your playing. A good example of a trio is U2. The Edge tends to play high and it forces Adam Clayton to really fill in the space. People question his skills, however when you take a deeper look they are simple but effective and done on purpose.
Of course it is. Bass is so important in any configuration, but in a trio it's a huge job. You're the glue that holds everything together.
Such a great video, Travis. You guys sounded great!
I love playing in a trio context, particularly one where you have room to improvise. Every note holds so much power - a single decision can take you down a whole different harmonic journey. Much harder (but not impossible) to do that in a larger band context.
“El Mimoso” Luis Antonio Lopez
He was the lead vocalist for that famous Mexican regional Banda El Recodo.
Now he’s a touring as a soloist singing the bands hits and his originals.
I enjoy your videos of a “working bassist”. Keep them coming.
Some of the best music has been made by trios: Hendrix, Cream, SRV.
Cheers and Well Done!
Travis,.. we dig it when you do these behind the scenes vids ! We learn so much ! 🤔👍🏽🎶🎸
Trio set up is my favorite. You have a lot more room to breathe and you can really control if you wanna leave space or fill it up. Coming from a blues background, it's my ideal configuration
I had to laugh when you called the guitarist out on the Mario look. I thought he would be a cross between Mario and Dan Akroyd. Maybe even Ron Burgundy! 🤣
Seriously though... Thanks for sharing the real story! I pay bass in a power trio and you are spot on.
Great playing and love the tone.
The satisfaction of your tone is half the battle on stage. Especially with a 3 piece.
I played many a 3 peice bands when I first started and it was frustrating.
I had to learn not to make too much of what I felt was missing. I also started to respect laying back at times, and how.
Its work. I'm glad I was open to criticism so thats where I learned a lot about Listening instead of just playing. Then again, that was the early 70's so music did require some stand out bass.
I have not playd a 3 peice Band for years now but I do a few Jam sessions live like that. Brings back all the things you learned and it is fun now, not as much worry about, am I doing this ok.
Hey, you guys sounded great on the short videos you had.
Thanks for sharing.
With your X-vive setup, I see you have it attached to a cable. Why is that? Does having it on a cable shorten the distance between you and the transmitter?
I played bass with a guitarist/singer & tambourine/backing singer. nowhere to hide there! Especially with my talent level. It was great fun though & I learnt very quickly.
Great video with a great perspective on band size! Thanks for sharing!!!
20:16 your face tells the story. 😂😂 God bless you!
Love the Road vlog stuff Travis , Thanks man .
Awesome video Travis! Tasty bass lines as always!
I love the simplicity of a 3 pice band! A 3 piece with a killer rhythm section is a thing of beauty
I played bass in a three piece hard rock band, think A Perfect Circle meets Creed. Most fun I’ve ever had. In my opinion, we had more freedom to fill in the spaces…or let the spaces be.
It’s less crowded too. Kind of like a two person volleyball team vs a six player team. More ground to cover, yet less clutter.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing. Not sure about being in a trio, but I do love my stage time.
Trio is the true school for musicians IMO. Lots of freedom but also a lot of space to cover, nowhere to hide!
I've been performing since 1967 and it's always been a three piece line-up for me. Guitar/vocal, sometimes bass.
I don’t know if it’s you or somebody else editing these videos Travis, but dang… their getting really good!! Love it!
Trio’s are a lot of fun on bass because There is a lot more freedom to get creative. Once you add all the other instruments the role of the bassist changes to something more subtle and restricted but in a trio you get to fill out those places where the other instruments normally sits. I also find trios allow you to have more mids in your tone which is always fun but seldom appropriate.
Cool behind the scenes and nice tour.
Great video. You are right about every note counting in a trio, which I guess does add to the pressure. But I think bass, guitar, drums is easier to keep tight when you 1st get together than a full band. So swings and roundabouts I think.
Hey Travis, nice video, cool to see the backstage stuff!! Regarding you in-ears... seems like you must have hit the incompetent sound engineer?? Your ears feed should NEVER come from the mains / FoH mix. That's why modern mixers have a TON of busses & AUX outputs on them... send out unique mixes for stage monitors and in-ears monitors. Ideally, a competent engineer will set up a unique mix for each member of the band using ears, and then adjust any stage wedges (if there are any) to the taste of those who still like using that method of monitoring.
Also, just a word of caution regarding those Xvive boxes (same applies to all of them, ears, mics, guitars, etc). They are using the 2.4GHz WiFi band, which is usually jam packed with other devices at most venues. In the USA there are literally only 11 channels in the 2.4GHz band, and it doesn't take a very large venue to have some kind of device using most or all of them. I'm glad they are working well for you, but you eventually will end up at a venue where they are just not going to give you a reliable connection. And in my experience the max distance between the transmit & receive boxes is very short. It would be well worth your while to consider the low end Sennheiser XSW ears that are in the UHF band (probably the cheapest brand name option), or any other similar product. Not as convenient to carry around, but you can get a nice little SKB or Gator case for the setup easily enough.
I work with a trio with a vocalist out front. I love trio work...the advantage and depending...disadvantage is you have to step up your game. There's no where to hide. IN a band setting 5 piece and up, you can lay back. In a trio setting,the audience may not know but your band mates know when you're off. And yes, every time you play, it's a learning experience. But then again, what do I know? I play the bass, but wait this IS what it's about.
interesting point to consider....indeed there is a big difference between the way of playing the bass (and the guitar)with a main/standard band and a trio...somehow they both must fullfill to achieve a rich harmonic orchestration..🤔 🎻🎻
I've pretty much only ever played in trios for my performing life. I almost always play bass and am the lead singer/songwriter in the first proper group I've started. In my opinion, having a great guitarist makes all the difference. I was in a trio with a weak frontman with weak technical ability and nobody had good things to say about us. When people hear my new band with a fantastic guitarist, even though I think I'm not the greatest singer, people say that it sounds amazing. In recordings it sounds full as he plays rhythm and lead in a really creative way and he really knows his way around that fretboard. Get yourself a good guitarist and you'll be in a great position!
Did you perform at the sayers club in Toronto? 18:55
Really enjoyed this video, both entertaining and informative. 👍
Very cool video! Thanks for posting. Have a question though... Do you have a back up bass (just in case?) And YES playing in a trio is awesome (Less drama too!)
This was great Travis... really enjoyed it.
Great vid Travis ! I enjoyed it.
Love it bro!
I love trios. You have so much opportunity to take chances and make something happen
( with the right guys).
BTW I caught a glimpse of what you guys are eating while you are on the road. Not good.
I saw a Jimmy Haslip interview and he was talking about eating healthy food and exercising while on the road. That's what I used to do back in the day. He's old( like me) and he's still keeping it together in a big way.
Also...to really enjoy winter you need to learn how to ski. There is nothing like it.
Well you guys sounded awesome! I have played in a couple trios, but we never toured and never sounded like that. Like your videos a lot!!!
Saw you and steven day in burlington. amazing opener!!!
I learned to play drums and that helped me so much as a bass player. The groove should be there with just bass and drums, that will inspire the guitar player. It only works if you have experienced players who listen to and play off each other, and can leave space for the music to breathe.
Love these videos! Are you posting your tours in real time anywhere? Would love to catch you if you come through Richmond, Va or close by!
What song is playing at 2:38 rehersal 3? It sounds nice
I like the way you set your rig up for gigs. What I need to do to get on that level of traveling and playing as a musician?
So many times, the quest for bigger, more complex, more involved music production is the goal. The product is cluttered, many times. Playing in a trio is all I'll ever do. Less personalities to manage and THE SPACE is so appreciated. Now, you have to know what you're doing as there is no place to hide.
I’ve played bass and guitar in trios for 35 years. It’s my favourite line up as long as everyone knows what a trio needs.
I live in des moines, i had no clue you were here. It would have been so cool to get to see you play live!
i've been playing bass in a trio (Ataraxis, check us out) for 3 years, i definitely agree it's harder! you have to contribute so much more to the band and the shows, but i love it! great video, you really capture what its like doing a week long tour, my first gig was a 1 week tour and i had no idea what i'd signed up for, but it was the fuel to continue doing shows to this day
What about using pedals? Like Geddy Lee.or Billy Sheehan? Just a thought...
I'm not finding the name of the trio nor the name of the band they're opening for...?
Once I see anything under 40 degrees going outside is no longer an option. You brave bruh!
It definitely fosters more creativity due to more sonic space (in my experience). Mistakes are more noticeable too. 🤷♂️
Loving your content. Thank you👍
Yes for several factors. You’ll discover for yourself what those factors may be. Good luck!✌️❤️
I have played bass in many band configs w/the largest being a Gospel band which was a 12-piece band, & down to duos. But my most common config IS a trio. You definitely feel naked on stage & you can’t hide, but at this point I’m used to it.
Beautiful vlog my friend!
I JUUSSSST saw Stephan Day in concert with Ben Rector. Def loved this dude...
Great video Travis!
Great video mate 👍 really enjoyed that
The trolley work 😂😂 I love this stuff
I’m from Australia and I’m coming to Nashville for the first time start of April! Any venues I should check out for regular jams and connections?
Thank you for the useful insight, and also the good vibes. God bless
This is really cool. Thanks for sharing!😊
At what point and how long did you have to learn the set before hitting the road with these guys. You sounded great.
Great video!
Thank you, Travis!
🍀
Nirvana was a trio for a while, also another one of my favorite bands... The Violent Femmes. Their drummer just used a snare and a cymbal I think. He might have used a kick drum, but I don't think he did. 😁
Wonderful bro,great job all you guy's
2:38 me: wait.. is that Stephen Day???
3:44 me: 😮🤯😃
thanks for the great video!
Pretty Cool Travis.Cheers from Australia!!Oh, 3 pce bass player 80 percent of the time.