Understanding the Bass Line
Are you a fan of Cro Mags and looking to dive into the intricate bass line of their iconic track “We Gotta Know”? You’ve come to the right place. This article will provide you with a detailed and multi-dimensional analysis of the bass tab for this track, ensuring that you not only understand the notes but also the techniques and musicality behind them.
Background Information
Cro Mags, an American hardcore punk band, formed in 1981. Known for their aggressive sound and political lyrics, they have been a significant influence in the hardcore punk scene. “We Gotta Know” is one of their most famous tracks, released on their 1986 album “The Age of Quarrel”. The song is known for its fast-paced rhythm and intense bass line, which has been a staple in many bassists’ practice routines.
Tablature Analysis
Let’s dive into the bass tab for “We Gotta Know”. The song is in the key of E minor, and the tempo is around 150 bpm. The bass tab consists of a series of notes and rhythms that create the driving force behind the track. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:
| Measure | Notes | Rhythm |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | E | Quarter note |
| 3-4 | E | Quarter note |
| 5-6 | E | Quarter note |
| 7-8 | E | Quarter note |
| 9-10 | E | Quarter note |
| 11-12 | E | Quarter note |
| 13-14 | E | Quarter note |
| 15-16 | E | Quarter note |
As you can see, the bass tab for “We Gotta Know” primarily consists of quarter notes played on the E string. The rhythm is straightforward, but the intensity and drive of the song come from the consistency and aggression with which these notes are played.
Techniques and Tips
Playing the bass tab for “We Gotta Know” requires a few specific techniques and tips to achieve the desired sound:
- Hand Positioning: Ensure that your fingers are in a comfortable position on the fretboard. This will help you maintain speed and accuracy.
- Strumming Technique: Use a downstroke for all the quarter notes. This will help you maintain a consistent and driving rhythm.
- Volume and Tone: Experiment with different volumes and tones to find the one that best suits your style and the overall sound of the song.
Musicality and Feel
While the bass tab for “We Gotta Know” is straightforward, the true essence of the song lies in its musicality and feel. Here are a few tips to help you capture the essence of the track:
- Listen to the Original: Listen to the original recording of the song to understand the dynamics and feel of the bass line.
- Practice with a Metronome: Use a metronome to practice the bass tab at various tempos, ensuring that you maintain a consistent rhythm.
- Express Yourself: Allow your emotions and style to come through in your playing. This will help you create a unique and authentic interpretation of the song.
Conclusion
Understanding the bass tab for Cro Mags’ “We Gotta Know” requires a combination of technical skill, musicality, and feel. By following
