Thought I'd create a thread where we could discuss, exchange knowledge on Beatles songs, chords, lyrics etc. amps, guitars etc.

I'm sure there is enough people round here who could make this a stimulating thread.

Tonight I've got a gig locally. Playing in a guitar duo. We also swap roles on the bass. I'm gonna be playin a few Beatle tracks.

Thought I'd share the ones I'll be probably be doin tonight. Normally, I'd drop a few from this particular list depending on the clientele, numbers etc. I'll post the 5 piece Apple Beatle set we do at a later date.

In no particular order...... (Brownie points for guessing the last one I do though. lol)

And I Love Her
Oh Darling
Things We Said Today/Golden Slumbers (Little A minor Segue we do.)
Hey Jude
Something
For No-One
Two Of Us

Me and another person played Two of Us for a friend's charity coffee house and it was my favourite song that we did. The vocal harmonies are just so nice and it's nice and easy for the most part.

Good luck with your gig!

~ missy

Last thursday, we were having a practice, trying to shape some new riffs etc into actual songs..when I launched into Get Back..everyone else followed..and it was so enjoyable..we done a 20 minute version...with Paul-esq vocal improvs.

:)

I haven't actually played any Beatles songs at a gig (seeing as how I've only done one) but I'm playing at an open mic night at a Coffee House tomorrow and doing two songs of my own and a Bob Dylan song complete with harmonica (The Times They Are a'Changing).  I'm excited.

For gigs its usual Let it Be, Hey Jude, and Lady Madonna, which is probably the best especailly for an group with a guitar piano and a bass and a cool sax intro.

I'm singing/playing guitar at the annual Kintyre Farm concert at this summer, and one of the songs I am playing is, well... guess.

^ Live & let die?
:)

Nice one guys...I did Things We Said Today/Golden Slumbers, Two of Us and finished with Hey Jude.

The harmonies in Two of Us are magic to sing. It's the lush 'out ahead' harmony that really gets me.

I would love to do Lady Madonna. The backing vocals (ba, ba, ba's) and that awesome Ronnie Scott sax solo bit have always put me off doing a proper cover of it.

Good luck with your gig Harrison. I hope the times they are a changin for ya!! lol

Did you sing the bit about  mammy not liking that in Get Back Indy? lol

^ Of course!
I even said "Thanks Mo" at the end..haha..don't ask!

:)

Hehehe!

^no john songs here i see

I take on the role of macca normally in the 5pce Beatle band I do, so I tend to stick to that. Also my voice warms to his range more. Not that there are not many Lennon songs I'd like to do. I may start slipping some in the duo set now you have raised the question.

i am not active at the moment.altho i still walk like an egyptian....
i always thought that hendrix hammering down on a chord and pulling back up across the strings to provide another was genuis.he was ahead of his time.if you ever have a chance to see electric ladyland studios do so.....

^ Is there a DVD of that PC. What's the deal with it?

Off to another gig in a mo. Just been learning The Long and Winding Rd. Going to slip that in at the end. I can't keep on ending with Hey Jude. lol

I posted this elsewhere, but in case you didn't see it, here is an excellent book on all the Beatles gear--stage, studio--everything. Highly recommended.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0879307315/qid=1120424940/sr=8-1/ref=pd_bbs_ur_1/103-6414739-1623064?v=glance&s=books&n=507846

Cheers mate. Added to the All Links Beatles thread. ;)

Just been to Howard's Bass Place in Newcastle (Plug for Howard) ..who totally sorted my Action out, put some great new strings on..cleaned up the electrics..

and now..it's special.

:)

I can't decide whether to put new strings on the viola bass for the upcoming gig...I love that old dampened, lifeless sound. Same strings since I bought the bass nearly 2 yrs ago. hehehehe

What would you guys do?

Hmm, I always thought leaving my old Fender Strings on gave it a more 'interesting' sound..but after slapping some RS 66 Swing Bass strings on...it sounds amazing!
8)
You could boil them apps..get rid of all the dirt and stuff.
Or just keep em on :)

Yes...On my Precision, I occasionally change them. When I used to gig a lot with my Warwick, I used to change the strings every 3/4 gigs.

Boiling em could be cool. I mean Macca used freekin piano strings!!!! lol

just get yourself some new ones Apps lol they are filthy.. im gonna put some fresh keggs on mine .. not long to go now hehe

I should hope your gonna put some fresh strings on you tightass!!! lmao!!!

I don't want a new, bright and pingy sound. ;)

LOL!!!! ;D

I used to play with a guitarist (a very good one in fact). He always said that new strings on his guitar felt like clean underwear.

Now on guitar I agree but bass however....lol

Are you using any effects?

No....possibly my Boss limiter/enhancer as the pick ups on the viola are pretty clumsy....You have to find the 'sweet' spot. Otherwise your either missing top end or bass.

Quoted from An_Apple_Beatle

I should hope your gonna put some fresh strings on you tightass!!! lmao!!!

I don't want a new, bright and pingy sound. ;)

haha lol @ Apps hehe .. and yeah come to think of it .. i kinda like the dull retro sound as well haha  :P

i may not change mine either lol

Don't You Dare!!!!!!!!!!!! lmao...I'm coming down yours to sort you out!!! lol

When I first had to buy Bass Strings..I couldn't get over the price!
I had to leave, and think out my financial situation first....haha

I feel your pain. I hate to rehead the old drumset too. Why are all hobbies so expensive?

Quoted from IndicaWalrus

Just been to Howard's Bass Place in Newcastle (Plug for Howard) ..who totally sorted my Action out, put some great new strings on..cleaned up the electrics..

and now..it's special.

:)

I'm just curious Indica, but what did Howard charge to do that? Not trying to be "nosey". I just wondered what my English counterpart charges. It sounds like you got a "set up" and restring. I my shop I charge $45.00 plus string cost. Included in the "set up" are adjusting the neck, string height, cleaning the electronics, tighted all hardware like tuners...ect, clean and oil fret board on rosewood board models and a good wipe down with the old Martin guitar polish. When I get done the guitar even smells new...... :D

Quoted from An_Apple_Beatle

I can't decide whether to put new strings on the viola bass for the upcoming gig...I love that old dampened, lifeless sound. Same strings since I bought the bass nearly 2 yrs ago. hehehehe

What would you guys do?

Ah yes, the dreaded dilema of whether to change or not to change. Also the cost of bass strings can be a shock as Indica found out, but here are some of my thoughts about it.  If you like the dull thud like sound (ala Rain, One after 909, and Hey Bulldog) don't change or if you want, go with new tape wound strings. Same sounds, new string. You don't have to boil old strings to brighten them you can use rubbing alcohol it will do just about the same with a brisk rub down. 91% rubbing alcohol is also great for cleaning all the old gunk(no eating fried chichen without washing your hands before playing is a good rule) that builds up on rosewood fingerboards. After you clean the fret board take "Lemon oil" (really, it's boiled linseed oil with lemon scent and yellow color added) and rub down the board. Use sparingly, a little goes along way. It will moisturize the board and keep it from cracking. 4 Times yearly is enough, just depends on how dry it is where you live and how often you need to clean your board. Notice this is not for maple boards. For them a quick wipe down with guitar polish works fine as most maple boards have a poly finish on them. And that concludes my rambling tip for the day..... :D

Thanks Riccy....Great info. If I had put on the strings maybe 3/4 weeks ago I would not have minded but bright, new strings on my viola does not sound appealing at all....I've got some Linseed, so I'll be using that and now thanks to you, a drop of Vodka!!! lol

Cheers mate. ;)

No sweat Apps. Just make sure that linseed oil is the "Pre" boiled type. Not boiled is not good and forget trying to boil it yourself only problems waiting there.

Just to add my tupence. I prefer old string sounds... not old old string sounds but at least so it doesn't sound so crisp and shiny.

Ricky, I believe Indica's bass set up cost him 20 pounds (correct me if I'm wrong Adam). I just got some new strings for my Casino today, sounds and feels lovely  :D

Just as another poser for you six string (and four string (for that matter) players; What guage/make of strings do you guys reccomend?

I wish Riccy you were down on the Isle of Wight....I'd get you tons of work man!!! lol

Bass, I use 40-100's, normally elites

Acoustic, 11 guage. D'darios, Martin or whatever is available. lol

Quoted from Blue_meanie

Ricky, I believe Indica's bass set up cost him 20 pounds (correct me if I'm wrong Adam). I just got some new strings for my Casino today, sounds and feels lovely  :D

Just as another poser for you six string (and four string (for that matter) players; What guage/make of strings do you guys reccomend?

On my acoustic lights 11-54 usually Martins  phos. bronze. I also have two strats one with 12's flatwound (odd huh) and one with 11's . A Les Paul with 10's and 9's on my Rick 325 and  Epi Casino. Usually Ernie Ball's or DR's. But gauge is a personal matter (or thats what I keep telling her...... :D) Seriously, what feels and sounds best to you is what youy should use. Having said, that thicker the string the fatter the tone.

Quoted from An_Apple_Beatle

I wish Riccy you were down on the Isle of Wight....I'd get you tons of work man!!! lol

Bass, I use 40-100's, normally elites

Acoustic, 11 guage. D'darios, Martin or whatever is available. lol

Whats it like over there? I'm not opposed to a move........ ;) Anyway when you guys get famous you'll need a guitar tech right?..... ;D

Quoted from RICKENBACKER325

Whats it like over there? I'm not opposed to a move........ ;) Anyway when you guys get famous you'll need a guitar tech right?..... ;D

LOL....That would be great. We've got a growing scene on our little Island. Recent college courses in music, The re-established ISle of Wight Fezzie and a few bands getting signed has caused quite a stir amongst the youth down here. The population is about 125,000 and  there is only 1 shop I know doing it...The waiting list is diabolical.

Sometimes you may as well get on the ferry to Portsmouth if you want it done promptly.....NIGHTMARE!!!! I'm due a good set-up on all my instruments aswell. Do you run any distance-learning courses? lol j/k

We'll have to make sure we get a good recording at the gig tonight, Hopefully we'll find our way to you. ;) lol

Quoted from An_Apple_Beatle

LOL....That would be great. We've got a growing scene on our little Island. Recent college courses in music, The re-established ISle of Wight Fezzie and a few bands getting signed has caused quite a stir amongst the youth down here. The population is about 125,000 and  there is only 1 shop I know doing it...The waiting list is diabolical.

Sometimes you may as well get on the ferry to Portsmouth if you want it done promptly.....NIGHTMARE!!!! I'm due a good set-up on all my instruments aswell. Do you run any distance-learning courses? lol j/k

We'll have to make sure we get a good recording at the gig tonight, Hopefully we'll find our way to you. ;) lol

Sure thing Apps. If theres anything I can help you with,  just ask.
Also you never know I may just turn up over there and open a shop got any good leads?...... :D lol

Don't think much of the recent whirlwind leads they are selling at my local. lol

Cheers Riccy. ;)

Quoted from An_Apple_Beatle

so I'll be using that and now thanks to you, a drop of Vodka!!! lol

Cheers mate. ;)

well you have plenty of the stuff eh m8 haha ... and i still never get offered a shot when i come round lol  :P

Quoted from Mr_Kite

well you have plenty of the stuff eh m8 haha ... and i still never get offered a shot when i come round lol  :P

Your too rock n roll wanting that stuff during the day man!!! lol

hahaha lol @ Apps .. maybe it's time for me to visit the AA club hehe :P

Hey Riccy!!! Any advice on purchasing a vox amp? AC30 is a bit out of the price range for now. I know about the Cambridge and Celestion, tranny or valve etc......What, if you had to, would be your cheapest compromise?

30 watt tranny I know, is much too quiet for gigging.

Check out the Vox valvetronix series. Vintage looks and tube sound, plus amp modeling and effects. The AD 50 VT or my preference AD 100 VT twin twelve model. At either 50 or 100 watts respectively they will be more than you need. These are the only non-tube amps I really like. Vox/Marshall did them right. Check out "Musicians Friend" for price The AD 100 VT sells for $549.99 USD. But I imagine all of the online/cataloge sellers will have the same price and most local shops will try to match price just to get the sale. Well, at least they will over here. Hopefully shops over there will also. Don't buy in a small location. If its the only store in town they are less likely to deal. Buy where there are several stores. Remember a little bullsh!t goes along when trying to get the best price ie...." I would really like to buy from you, but that store down the street has this for 30.00 less". Anyway, you get the Idea. Also the AD 100 VT nails the AC 30 sound to a tee.

Your an absolute diamond!!!! Thanks for the info Riccy....Wasn't expecting it so soon. ;)

We have an agent very interested, so it's time to pick our feet up a bit.

GOOD LUCK!!!!!! Remember me when you need that guitar tech...... ;)

Quoted from RICKENBACKER325

GOOD LUCK!!!!!! Remember me when you need that guitar tech...... ;)

LOL!!!. Of course...first choice!!!!! Hopefully a good run of gigs could make it closer to a reality.

Hey Apps, did you go to Musicians friend.com or any whwere else and check out that Vox valvetronix amp yet?

Yeah man!!! the 50 watter looks great 359 bucks. You ever get em in your shop?
I heard you can get away with tax duty if it's bought and sent as a present...Is this right?

Maybe I could buy an empty old vox cab and stick this in it!!! lol

No, sorry Apps were not a vox dealer. If I run into a used one I'll let you know. I am not sure how thw tax thing works from country to country. Over here if you buy out of state and have it shipped to where you live there is no tax charged. I'll tell you what I'll look for either the 50 or the 100 watts used and see what I come up with. To buy the 50 watter and put in a old vox case is more trouble than it would be worth. If you really want the vintage looks go with the 100 watt  AD 100 VT..... ;D

Cheers Riccy....I actually got myself mixed up. Gonna check that AD100VT right now.
I'd never have the guts (or skill) to really embark on such a project. lol

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/g=home/search/detail/base_id/136518

Now I see what you mean. lol

Hey guys remember me?

I will probably start a different thread about this but I was wondering if anyone here could help me a bit, I was thinking of bidding and hopefully winning this bass:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7349884949&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEBI%3AIT&rd=1#ebayphotohosting

I know it has alot of problems but I love fixing up basses, but does anyone know anymore info about this type of bass? There were several hollow body epiphones released in the 70s but Im not sure which this one is.

Thanks for the help in advance!

Rickenbacker325 would be your man for this. If you love fixing up basses then I'd go for it.

I don't know too much about these models. I'll have a dig around.

Did you get it in the end Mushmouth?

Btw...Thought i would unstick this thread. Not much action. lol

I now know what Bass I'm saving for, spotted in Newcastle...






600 English Pounds.
:)
Fender Aerodyne Jazz Bass

Mmm. Nice.

Just bumping....Could swap song chords etc etc here.

i have yet to play any gigs, or actually start playing with my band, since i only joined them a week ago. so for like 2 years I just play around on my drums and guitar. i know no chords but its fun to play around. without chords it makes it a little hard to play beatles songs but i can kinda do Across The Universe and And I Love Her, but I can play Helter Skelter on drums while doing the guitar pasts. (basically I just turn it into beats and play them on the floor tom)

Embrace and enjoy it with all you got. Good luck to ya. ;)

yeah good luck you will need it......

thanks, much appriciated

Thought I'd post this here.
In January, I've finally decided on buying a Fender Black Precision Bass.
I'm also going to be buying an amp (around the 100watt) for a price of up to 300 quid.
Anyone point me in the direction of a good amp or make, for the 'loose' specifications I've typed.

Cheers.

I'll have a think and get back to you on that. May be a little while...I'm puttin my pc in for a service.

First thing I'd be doing is looking on ebay for some prices...Next advice...if you like a particular bass player, consider his brand. If you can get hold of a fender bassman 100watt amp and a speaker for that price it would be great but you might be a bit short.

Off the top of my head....Hartke are doing some nice smallish but pokey amps (not sure on cost). A second hand Trace Elliott wouldn't let you down either. Definitely within price range. Go for a 1x15 speaker at least, if you want some low end punch.

I'm using a Peavey T-Max bass head with a Hartke 2x10 cab and a 1x15 Peavey BW speaker. Got loads of punch, bit of valve action but I like retro. I really would go for an old valve ampeg or fender bassman if I had a choice....You can't forget how much lugging aroung you got to do with it though until you get roadies! lol. Also, size in a car etc etc.

Slightly related...My fender precision sounds awesome through my mates Fender Twin guitar amp. lol

^ No problems.

I am buying in January - so I still have a wait on my hands.

Our bassist plays on Trace Elliot too. It never lets him down and sounds pretty good.

Any more action or considerations on an amp Indy?

Nope, Sadly not.
I'm going through tomorrow, to price Fender P Basses - may even order my model in.
After I get my new Bass, the amp will be next.

I really am at a loss - I really don't know gear.
I just want a reliable Amp - 100 watt and not overpriced.
But I know Guitar Shops will see me and the word 'mug' across my forehead.

The Sound I want is well - a Bass Sound! :)
Earthy ..I can't really describe :(
Just something that is versatile and wont let me down.

Can't you have a listen before you buy one?

Oh yeah, but I need to know what brand.
I need to get my bass, before I go amp hunting.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Trace-Elliot-SMX-1215-Bass-Combo_W0QQitemZ7378420122QQcategoryZ58719QQtcZphotoQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/WARWICK-SWEET-15-BASS-AMP-150w-15-SPEAKER-4-BAND-EQ_W0QQitemZ7378365420QQcategoryZ58719QQtcZphotoQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Hartke-HA1200-Kickback-12-Bass-Combo_W0QQitemZ7378725131QQcategoryZ58719QQtcZphotoQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Maybe a few here to keep your eye on. I noticed some reasonably priced Behringers and Laneys but I dont know much about there sound. Also you may want to consider getting a great bass head amplifier and maybe a separate speaker cab.

Behringer is originally East-European (East Germany I think), but they make quite good stuff on microphones. I have one that almost sounds like a Shure SM58, but lacks a little dynamic. Still a good microphone, certainly considering the price. Good value for money.

I do have some behringer compressors and I've noticed they do great mixing desks for value.

Well, I went through and started to price Fender Bass Guitars ..with mixed results.
I found a standard Mexican P Bass would cost me around the 350 mark - but the Black Matt colour can only be traced to the very high end Jazz Guitars (obviously a hell of alot more money) Plus, the Mexican Standards only come in Rosewood necks ..so my dream bass has fizzled...basically.
Looks like I will have to up the cash, and buy an American P for around 570 ..if I want a maple neck.

I just think maple makes you glide over the frets better..
Any thoughts? is it worth it, just for the neck...

Depends how close u are to 570 pounds. Personally I thought the Mexican basses are ok. I bought one for a pupil about 6 months ago. Sounds good plugged in.

Still...It may be worth the wait. Personal decision really.

Put a 20 pound deposit on a Fender Japanese P bass (second hand)
good condition - 275 quid.

Any advice or info on that line of bass?

Pick the one you got for a review: http://www.bgra.net/reviews/bass-indexf-g.html

Sent you a PM INdy. ;)

^ Well ... it took me ages but I finally bought a new amp  8)

Ashdown Electric Blue-12-180 - smooth.

Nice! Ashdown make good amps and I always love a needle V.U. :)

I just bought myself a small Vox T-25 today. Very cheap and at least a nice small practise/small gig amp. ;)
Cannay wait to get the viola through it.

here it be...



looking forward to hearing that vox tone and doing some miking experiments. ;)

I saw that amp over here in the local shop as well. I bought a Vox Brian May (that tiny white amp) last year and haven't regretted it. It's a very direct sound and it suits me very well.

Still not arrived yet....itchin...just itchin to play it.

It's a nice amp...Gorgeous tone but i wouldnay take it to every gig unless it was miked up...Suits some quieter gigs though.