Best String Bass Podcasts (2025)

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Ep021 - Strings: Every Type for Guitar and Bass 30:32

Play Pause

11d ago30:32

30:32

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider goes deep into guitar and bass strings, emphasizing their crucial role in shaping an instrument's tone and playability. Strings are described as the "little mechanical engines" of a guitar, influencing not only sound but also the tactile experience of playing. Andy explores the various types of strings avai…

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Bass Case S2 E13: “Minor Pentatonic” (Part 1) 6:59

2d ago6:59

6:59

Send us a text In this episode of Bass Case, Phil demonstrates and discusses the minor pentatonic scale. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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Ep022 - Must-Know Muting Techniques 27:20

4d ago27:20

27:20

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider delves into the essential skill of muting techniques for guitar and bass players. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, mastering muting can elevate your playing from basic to expressive and dynamic. Andy explains how muting acts as punctuation in music, helping to control sound, create clea…

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192- I dismissed Pino Palladino (The Truth) 54:32

5d ago54:32

54:32

Ever look back and cringe at your early bass choices? Scott and Ian swap stories about the mistakes they made chasing speed and flash — including the time they dismissed players like Pino Palladino, Michael League, and Jonathan Maron as “boring.” They break down how your ear (and your priorities) change over time — and why it matters.…

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Coming Soon: (The Monosyllabic Mini-)Season 2 1:49

2d ago1:49

1:49

We have a clutch of new shows coming very soon with names you might expect...or not.By Sandy Smallens

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Bass Case S2 E12: “Major Pentatonic” (Part 1) 10:40

9d ago10:40

10:40

Send us a text In this episode of Bass Case, Phil demonstrates and explains the major pentatonic scale. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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190- The Dark Side of YouTube 1:03:12

12d ago1:03:12

1:03:12

Scott and Ian get real about the ups and downs of learning music on YouTube. It’s one of the most powerful tools available to musicians today, but it also comes with some serious pitfalls. From confusing advice to the pressure of chasing views, they break down eight common issues that can affect how we learn and teach online. The good news? When us…

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Bass Case S2 E11: "Major Modes (Recap)" 7:09

16d ago7:09

7:09

Send us a text In this episode of Bass Case, Phil recaps the major modes episodes. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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Ep020 - Putting Triads to Work 26:08

18d ago26:08

26:08

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider dives into the world of triads, the foundational three-note chords that form the backbone of countless songs. Triads are essential for any guitarist or bassist, and Andy explores four types: major, minor, augmented, and diminished. He explains how these triads are constructed from scale tones, with each typ…

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189- I took a lesson from a LEGEND (and was disappointed) 55:26

19d ago55:26

55:26

Music theory gets thrown around a lot—but what does it really mean? In this episode, Scott and Ian break down why the term is often too broad to be helpful, sharing stories from their own journeys (including lessons with legends) and how those experiences shaped their view of theory. It’s a practical, no-fluff take on functional harmony that’ll act…

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Bass Case S2 E 10: "Lydian Mode" 10:33

23d ago10:33

10:33

Send us a text In this episode of Bass Case, Phil demonstrates and discusses Lydian mode. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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Ep019 - Pentatonics Plus 38:07

25d ago38:07

38:07

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider gives real word examples (and a couple out-of-this-world examples) of pentatonic scales, a fundamental tool for guitar and bass players across all genres. From blues to rock, pop, jazz, and hip-hop, pentatonics are everywhere. Andy explores major and minor pentatonic scales, their simplicity, flexibility, a…

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188- OK. Let’s talk about Giacomo Turra… and the bigger questions behind the controversy. 51:20

26d ago51:20

51:20

Scott and Ian dive into the recent firestorm around guitarist Giacomo Turra—from miming and monetizing others’ solos to what it really means to be a musician on social media today. But this isn’t just about one creator—it’s about blurred lines, internet fame, and how we define integrity, performance, and progress in the modern music world. Miming? …

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Listen, Build, Create: The Philosophy Behind Upton Bass 15:29

30d ago15:29

15:29

In this episode, Gary from Upton Bass gets personal and reflective as he walks us through the foundation of the company—from the original vision inspired by Good to Great, to the values that continue to shape how Upton Bass builds instruments and relationships. He unpacks the deeper meaning behind Upton’s mission "to be the leader in designing and …

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187- Why MOST bassists are DOOMED :( 1:18:00

30d ago1:18:00

1:18:00

Scott and Ian dig into 12 common (and surprisingly relatable) reasons bassists hit a wall—and spoiler: it’s not just about not practicing. This episode gets honest (in a good way), with plenty of insights, laughs, and “wait… that’s me” moments. Even Ian felt called out by a few of these! Which ones resonate with you?…

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Bass Case S2 E09: "Phrygian and Locrian Modes" 12:47

1M ago12:47

12:47

Send us a text In this episode of Bass Case, Phil demonstrates and discusses Phrygian and Locrian modes. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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Bass Case S2 E08: "In 2" 9:48

1M ago9:48

9:48

Send us a text In this episode of Bass Case, Phil discusses playing in a "2" feel. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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Ep018 - How Amp Modelers Work 30:32

1M ago30:32

30:32

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider delves into the fascinating world of amp modelers, a revolutionary technology that allows guitarists and bassists to carry the sound of their favorite amplifiers and pedals in a compact, affordable package. Amp modelers digitally replicate the sound and feel of various amplifiers, offering musicians the ver…

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Ep017 - You Gotta Get the Blues! 26:40

1M ago26:40

26:40

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider delves into the foundational elements of blues music and its significant influence on modern music genres like rock, country, and jazz. He emphasizes the importance of understanding blues techniques for all musicians, regardless of their primary genre, as these techniques can enhance musical expression and …

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186- Rating 10 GREATEST Bass Lines of ALL TIME (according to WatchMojo) 57:10

1M ago57:10

57:10

Scott and Ian take on WatchMojo’s list of the 10 Greatest Bass Lines of All Time—do they live up to the hype or fall flat? From feel and pocket to creativity, tone, and those unforgettable hooks, they’re rating what really makes a bass line legendary (and which ones get a “meh”). If you’ve ever wanted to level up and find out what skills might be h…

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Bass Case S2 E07: "Mixolydian Mode" 10:06

1M ago10:06

10:06

Send us a text In this episode of Bass Case, Phil discusses the use of mixolydian mode. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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Ep016 - Bend Those Strings! 26:02

2M ago26:02

26:02

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider dives into the essential guitar technique of string bending, a skill that breathes life and emotion into your playing. Whether you're crafting soulful blues solos, country leads, or screaming rock anthems, mastering string bending can elevate your sound from beginner to advanced. Andy guides listeners throu…

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Ep015 - Every Knob of Your Amp Explained 33:35

2M ago33:35

33:35

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider delves into the intricacies of guitar amplifiers, emphasizing their role as essential tone-shaping tools rather than mere volume boosters. He breaks down the architecture of amplifiers, explaining the function and impact of each section from the preamp to the master volume. Andy discusses the importance of …

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Bass Case S2 E6: "Aeolian Mode" 12:11

2M ago12:11

12:11

Send us a text In this episode of Bass Case, Phil discusses the Aeolian Mode. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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185 - Rex Brown: The BONECRUSHING bass lines of Pantera 34:24

2M ago34:24

34:24

What makes a bass line cut through in a heavy band like Pantera? In this episode, Ian Allison sits down with Rex Brown to find out. Rex walks us through a few of his most iconic lines—including the growling groove of “I’m Broken” and shares what it took to hold down the low end in one of metal’s loudest, heaviest bands. If you’re into classic hard …

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Ep014 - Fitting Your Part into a Full Band 36:44

2M ago36:44

36:44

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider delves into the art of arranging your musical part within a band setting. He likens playing in a band to a musical conversation or a dinner party, emphasizing the importance of timing and knowing when to play or hold back. The focus is on harmonically and rhythmically arranging your part to make the band so…

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184 - Berklee College of Music - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly 1:12:15

2M ago1:12:15

1:12:15

What really happens when you go to one of the most famous music schools in the world? In this episode, Sharon pulls back the curtain on her time at Berklee College of Music as Scott digs into the highs, the lows, and the stuff you don’t hear in the brochures. From late-night jam sessions to lessons learned side by side with other hungry young music…

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Ep013 - Better Rhythms and New Time Signatures 28:17

2M ago28:17

28:17

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider dives into the essential role of rhythm in music, emphasizing its presence as the heartbeat of all musical compositions. He explores how mastering rhythm, through understanding and applying time signatures and beat subdivisions, can elevate your playing from good to great. Whether you're strumming chords, p…

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183 - NEW 5 string arrived. It's INSANE. 58:35

2M ago58:35

58:35

Scott’s got a brand new 5-string, and it’s shaking things up. In this episode, he and Ian dig into what makes it so special and why 5-strings deserve way more love. From tone and feel to gig-ready setups, it’s a deep dive into the gear, the playing, and the choices that shape your sound. Whether you’re thinking of switching it up or just curious wh…

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182 - 5 ICONIC Bass Lines that use EVERY. LAST. FRET. 56:03

2M ago56:03

56:03

Ready to stretch out beyond your usual comfort zone? In this episode, Scott and Ian explore five epic bass lines that make full use of the fingerboard. We're talking top to bottom, end to end. Along the way, you’ll pick up tips on fretboard visualization, targeting key notes, and making the entire neck feel like home. These riffs aren't just cool. …

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Ep012 - Electricity Basics for Guitar and Bass 39:43

2M ago39:43

39:43

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider demystifies the fundamentals of electricity for guitarists and bassists. Understanding these basics can enhance your ability to master your tone and make informed equipment choices. Andy breaks down key concepts such as Ohm's Law, the difference between AC and DC voltage, and the roles of capacitors and res…

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181 - Lee Sklar: The Working Bass Player 1:26:07

3M ago1:26:07

1:26:07

What’s it like to be one of the most recorded bass players of all time? In this episode, Scott sits down with session legend Leland Sklar, the bassist behind classic records from Carole King, Phil Collins, James Taylor, Dolly Parton, Toto, and Diana Ross—just a glimpse into a career that spans over 2,000 albums. Lee shares unforgettable studio stor…

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Ep011 - The Scales Junglegym 30:02

3M ago30:02

30:02

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider explores the concept of "The Scales Junglegym," drawing parallels between the physical benefits of playing on a jungle gym and the musical benefits of mastering scales. Andy emphasizes that just as the jungle gym builds physical strength and flexibility, practicing scales enhances hand coordination and musi…

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Ep010 - Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs 27:07

3M ago27:07

27:07

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider walks us through hammer-ons and pull-offs, essential techniques for guitarists and bassists aiming to enhance their musical expression. These techniques are pivotal for creating fluid, expressive lines that can elevate your playing, whether you're crafting gentle ballads or shredding rock solos. Andy explai…

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Bass Case S2 E05: “Dorian Mode” 18:01

3M ago18:01

18:01

Send us a text In this episode Phil demonstrates Dorian mode and its uses. Contact: [email protected] Phil

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Ep009 - Fuzz, Distort and Boost - Pedal Special 21:27

3M ago21:27

21:27

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider delves into the intricate world of distortion pedals, exploring how they can transform the sound of your guitar. Distortion pedals, including fuzz, overdrive, and boost, are essential tools for shaping the voice of your guitar, offering everything from a gritty growl to a smooth sustain. Andy explains the t…

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“We are the most underrated and yet most important members of any band” with Brian Ritchie (Violent Femmes) 1:05:22

3M ago1:05:22

1:05:22

Brian Ritchie is our first guest whose primary instrument - the one that helped make his band Violent Femmes a household name - is an acoustic bass. Today we hear how all that came to be, the band’s path from busking on the streets of Milwaukee to rocking stadiums, and why their approach really hasn’t changed all that much. Along the way he tells s…

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“Cool World” by Chat Pile: The Bass-ic Review 16:04

3M ago16:04

16:04

As we gear up for our next season of Four Strings and the Truth interviews, we’re introducing a new, more bite-sized feature: the Bass-ic Review. This is an analysis of new and recently released albums from the bottom up - i.e., from the point of view of the bass: the playing AND the player. And to kick things off, we’re focusing on the much-antici…

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Living Between The Songs with Klaus Flouride (Dead Kennedys) 1:00:39

3M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

Dead Kennedys - the scabrous, Northern Cali-based band that taught the world how to stage dive - created some of the most indelible anthems in hardcore, naming and shaming those in charge and challenging its audience to face hard truths. The band’s gone through a few line-up changes in its 40+ years, but one constant has been the instrumental inter…