Locking In With the Bass Player

It has been my experience when playing in any musical situation that if the bass player and I can lock in and play well together, then the rest of the group will feel our groove. I’m always listening to the other players, but I’m also aware that my primary focus is on creating a danceable feel — regardless of the genre. I believe that any music and any tempo can be felt as dance music. Peter Erskine talks about his jazz ride cymbal pattern and making it “dance.” That has stayed with me, and it’s something I’m always trying to achieve.