Reviews
Reviews of Gear, CD's, DVD's, Books, etc.
Bass Guitar for Dummies
Rating: 
When I first ventured picked this book up, the extent of my knowledge, of the bass guitar was it was longer than a regular guitar. If it wasn't a car passing by with the BASS turned all the way up, I couldn't tell you where most basslines began or ended. Mostly attributed to most of the basslines that I had heard played, were performed on the keyboard, I had no clue of the vast role of the bass in band. I must admit I can be a bit impatient, I tend to skim read, and jump ahead. Then once I realize I need to take my time and read something through, I usually have wasted more time than just reading it through the first time. I didn't get impatient with this book...okay. I didn't get as impatient as I have reading other books.
Mr. Pfeiffer does an excellent job of explaining concepts, the book flows very well. It doesn't force you to learn to read standard notation, although it doesn't forbade it either, it actually includes tab, diagrams, and standard notation. I liked that the book, didn't choose for me. If I want to be a tab-a-holic, I could, If I want to read standard notation I can also do that.
The accompanying CD had plenty of tracks to play along with, covering a lot of different genres, and reinforces the concepts that are taught. You will go from dummy to well informed in no time.
Mr. Pfeiffer is a versatile, musican, who thoroughly equips a newbie bassist, with everything necessary to get well on their way playing the bass, in numerous settings. However, this book is not only for newbie bass players. I showed some concepts to a friend of mines, who had been playing for a while, and is a very talented musician. His eyes lit up.
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a solid foundation, get this book. It is a must have
for bass players of all levels. Dare I say if you don't have this book, shame
on you. :)