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I've been asked to do some gigs behind a singer/songwriter (in the style of Elliott Smith but more orchestral) who wants to perform with a band. I've never done this before and am trouble getting my head around the bass free demos - my experience is more pop. Does anyone have any advice for creating bass parts to this kind of music?

Well since I am more a singer songwriter than a bass player per se, my advice would be keep it simple and supportive, listen to the lead at all time, be mindful of the dynamic (don't hammer your bass like a mad man while is singing). One thing that I learned from Aston Barrett (Bob Marley's bassist) and this my friend, will always impress a singer, from times to time, pickup the lead line with your bass playing in unisson with the lead but just for a bar or two. You either play the same thing or something harmonized or even contrapunctic.

First, I'd like to say "don't psyche yourself out"! Listen to his strumming for the rhythm, his voice for the melody, and start out simply playing a supportive bass line, and as you get more comfortable, "noodle" around a little bit and see what sounds good (or doesn't)... sometimes adding here and there works, and sometimes simpler is better. Don't be afraid to ask him if he hears something he wants you to add... it's all worth the risk, and will broaden your playing. Who wants to do only cover there entire life? Everyone wants to get involved in an original project, so give it a go! And let us know how you do...

Grab yourself a copy of James Taylor's '77 album "JT" and listen to what Lee Sklar does. He never overplays but always compliments the music. All you gotta do is play like Lee. Easy!

I mostly play original music and work with lots of singer songwriters. You just have to leave your ego at the door when - at least until you figure out what's best for the song - and don't use it as a vehicle to practice your chops. (Unless an appropriate moment presents itself.)

One of my regular paying gigs is in the back up band for a vocal school that does regular performance workshops for the students. Many of the students are aspiring singer/songwriters and bring in their song to be performed with a band for the first time. I must say, if the drummer is good and also knows how to listen to the song the pieces fall into place quite easily. We usually do 25 songs per performance and only get to rehearse each one as a band 2-4 times at best. But that keeps everyone honest and working for the best of the song.

Keep that in mind.

What useful responses - thanks guys!!

It seems the consensus is to just start ultra simple, which I understand as root, 5th, octave, major/minor passing note type of thing, and take it from there until I get comfortable. The vocals, piano and guitar are so fulsome on the demos that you really have to control yourself. I'm definitely going to check out Barrett and Sklar! I'll keep you all posted.