Alembic Guitars Club

Alembic products => Alembic Basses & Guitars => Topic started by: jazzyvee on October 15, 2010, 12:23:12 AM

Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: jazzyvee on October 15, 2010, 12:23:12 AM
Lately I have been to a couple of jam sessions locally as a punter but am thinking of joining in soon but I know that many of the muso's there know I'm an Alembic owner and will want to have a try out on my instrument.  I've been to gigs where someone has wanted to try out my bass and apart from a rare occasion where it was a very good bass playing friend of mine I've always said no.
 
But at jam sessions it seems kind of expected that you hand over your instruments for others to play (apart from horn players). I just worry about it getting damaged on the crowded stage.  
 
Do you have any scary stories that you can share?
If you have had an alembic damaged at one of these sessions did the person responsible do the decent thing and pay up for the repair or did you have to grin and bear it?
 
Jazzyvee
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: krystoof on October 15, 2010, 01:39:40 AM
Hi, Jazzyvee!
   Fortunately, I never had any damage on my bass during a jam session, and I don't have any scary stories to tell, but the point is that I was feeling a little nervous when a bassist I didn't know was taking my bass to play with. And this was before I bought Ambre, my 5 string MK sig.
   Now I have an Alembic, and I'm a little like you, I have never left anyone play with her during a jam session. Some of my good friends have tried her, but not at a jam session( in my place, at music school,...).
And the other point is that I don't know how I would react if someone was damaging the bass I've been dreaming of for years and years...
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: sonicus on October 15, 2010, 03:35:11 AM
This is one of those scenarios that we might feel uncomfortable about where we just might have be the the fellow who just says no. The wild eyed chap with the huge belt buckle and rings on all fingers will have to provide is own Bass.I never met him before and I was very friendly as I said no and put my Bass away in the case. No can be nice , very nice when we have avoided a possibly worse social interaction by requesting funds for a refinish.  His response might be even a bit  more adverse after that request. I  bring a beater bass to such an event  like my Old Fender . It is unlikely that I would hand over a Pristene Alembic Unless it already had finish issues. Perhaps that might make me appear to seem selfish or even uptight  in their eyes______ but then no one is perfect ______. No can be nice , it is how we say it  and it can save us misery .
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: serialnumber12 on October 15, 2010, 03:43:54 AM
thats why i bring two basses to jams my alembic is like my wife never let another man even get close cause shes been hurt before already!(http://club.alembic.com/Images/393/87635.jpg)
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: sonicus on October 15, 2010, 03:52:50 AM
That picture hurts me too , just looking at it ___
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: jazzyvee on October 15, 2010, 06:03:57 AM
Keavin, that picture is a good regular reminder that although these bases are strong they can still break. Can you imagine someone handing you back your bass in two pieces after picking it up without permission at a jam session...!!!
 
I could imagine where the sharp bit of that broken neck would be made to fit. Throws a whole new light on the phrase neck thru....!!!
 
Jazzyvee
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: terryc on October 15, 2010, 06:10:29 AM
I agree with Sonicus, if I am asked to play in the house band at a jam session then I take my old Squier P bass(even though it has Alembic activators and sounds great).
It has dents and scratches on it but I could always re finish the body.
I would never let anyone use my Alembic.
If you had a great car would you let any stranger borrow it..I guess not
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: dadabass2001 on October 15, 2010, 07:49:42 AM
I've been to jam sessions both as a house band member and as just another guy on the waiting list. I always check out a session before I bring out my bass.  My bass stays in it's case until I'm on, and I stay right beside her. The rule around Chicago is that everyone brings their own instrument, so I've never had to deal with someone expecting to use my bass.  
 
I have let people I know and have past history with try out my bass at sessions, but would not let an unknown pick her up.  
 
So yes, I am cautious but it's a key part of my sound. If it's not safe for my Alembic, I don't really want to be there.  
Mike
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: edwin on October 15, 2010, 02:12:56 PM
I was at a music awards ceremony thrown by the Westword in Denver. At the end was a big jam session. I had my Starfire with me and some metal player literally grabbed it out of my hands yelling at me that he had to play since his drummer was playing. He then proceeded to play pretty hard. Although there was no damage, I was pretty pissed off that he would do that without regard to the instrument he was playing and without respect for it. Further he was intent on playing his most metal bass parts with the drummer, completely disrespecting the rest of the band, who were mostly hip hop and rappers trying to get some kind of groove happening. I've never been to one of their awards ceremonies since, regardless of winning some categories.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: edwin on October 15, 2010, 02:16:25 PM
I was at a music awards ceremony thrown by the Westword in Denver. At the end was a big jam session. I had my Starfire with me and some metal player literally grabbed it out of my hands yelling at me that he had to play since his drummer was playing. He then proceeded to play pretty hard. Although there was no damage, I was pretty pissed off that he would do that without regard to the instrument he was playing and without respect for it. Further he was intent on playing his most metal bass parts with the drummer, completely disrespecting the rest of the band, who were mostly hip hop musicians and rappers trying to get some kind of groove happening. I've never been to one of their awards ceremonies since, regardless of winning some categories.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: David Houck on October 15, 2010, 02:49:19 PM
Wow!  That guy's carrying around some bad karma.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: mike1762 on October 15, 2010, 03:02:51 PM
But not your Karma!!!
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: David Houck on October 15, 2010, 03:12:10 PM
Hah!
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: toma_hawk01 on October 15, 2010, 07:14:40 PM
Man, I remember back in the 70's my uncles and other relatives would drive up in their brand new 1973 Cadillac Coupe De Ville, or other 70's model, and it wouldn't be long before one of us older teenagers (or my older brother) would be given the keys to test drive it -- while us younger cats (like myself) would be happy and honored to get a ride in the front or back seats.
 
My Uncles would just kick back and dig the whole scene in pride.
 
From a special object perspective, this is pretty much how I feel about sharing my Alembics. My elders had it right.
 
Peace and Love,
 
Hal-
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: gtrguy on October 15, 2010, 07:56:48 PM
I think it's understood your instrument is like your wife. Amps mau be OK to borrow at a jam, but a real player would never ask to use your bass. And... you would not want anyone else but a real player touching it anyway.
 
I think Alembics just tempt people to ask dumb favors they should not be asking. No how - no way am I letting anyone touch my tools of the trade.
 
Dave
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: mike1762 on October 16, 2010, 05:37:46 AM
I bought my Alembics used, so (relatively speaking) I don't have that much invested in them.  As such, I'm not too uptight about other people playing them.  HOWEVER, if I had spent 20K+ on a custom build I'm sure I would feel differently about that.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: malthumb on October 16, 2010, 06:38:14 AM
I am ok with people playing my Alembics in situations WHERE I HAVE CONTROL.  I have yet to go to a jam session where I felt in control.
 
In situations like the one pictured below, where I know the guy (a Sadowsky owner who knows how to respect a bass) I'm cool.
 
(http://club.alembic.com/Images/393/87688.jpg)
 
Otherwise, it's NO as nicely as possible, but with me not caring what they think about me for saying no.
 
Peace,
 
James
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: cosmic on October 16, 2010, 12:01:22 PM
I pretty much don't let anyone play my Alembic. I don't care if people think I am a dick for not allowing them to get their grubby paws on it.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: edwin on October 16, 2010, 12:05:23 PM
I noticed when flying back home yesterday that the TSA agent at the airport had a really hard time putting the bass back in the case and letting it out of his hands! Luckily he was wearing gloves and was very careful, but still, it was hard to watch him procrastinate.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: sonicus on October 16, 2010, 12:42:05 PM
A few years ago at Dallas/Fort Worth  Airport a TSA agent mishandled an instrument of mine and I corrected him on the proper handling so he called over his supervisor and told him that I would not permit him to inspect my Trumpet. I was then escorted to a back room and asked to completely disassemble my  trumpet in front of the 2 agents while they tested individual parts my trumpet for explosives  or other forbidden substances!   I have been cleaning my horns that way anyway since I was 10 years old so it was really not much of a big deal . This whole event took about 45 minutes and I was grinning the entire time . Other folks who were in my traveling party later commented that they could feel the high tension in the room and were convinced that if I had been more adversely verbal and shown any agitation that we would have missed our flight.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: hg30904 on October 16, 2010, 12:42:59 PM
One of the best times ever had to be at the NE/NJ Gathering and touching/playing Greg Locke's bass. Flax was encouraging everyone to play Scarlet and Dire Wolf. Everybody was really cool.
 
But then, perhaps that was different...
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: pace on October 16, 2010, 02:11:56 PM
That was a totally different scenario Harold...  I was reluctant to play half the basses there that were offered to me to pick up!!!!  
 
On a related note, I'm curious how many of us have showed up to a gig, only to have the supporting or headlining act demand to use our equipment??? It seems this type of request has become the rule rather than the exception of late...
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: richbass939 on October 17, 2010, 06:07:57 AM
Mike, that's good to know about other acts wanting to use your equipment.  I haven't encountered it myself.  My gigs are always one band gigs.  Now I know to ask.  Letting someone use my amp rig is one thing.  My axes are another matter.
I see these players with lots of hardware on their stage costumes and it just makes me wonder.  I guess, to them, the look is worth the damage.  Then on the other end is Jimmy J. who has his belt buckle off to the side.  It's just a matter of respect, I suppose.
Rich
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: jet_powers on October 17, 2010, 07:05:37 AM
I used to be in an outfit that hosted open mic nights and it was understood you were supposed to bring your own instrument. However, there were always a few who asked to use my Alembic. If I knew the person well enough, I would sometimes consent. If I didn't know them I would respond with You don't mind if I f**k your wife while you are using my bass do you? It got me some strange looks and perhaps labeled a dickhead, but they didn't use my bass and never asked again.....
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: dwmark on October 17, 2010, 12:36:52 PM
Yes, but there's always the risk they'd rather play your Alembic.  I think I'll just say no.
 
Other than at an Alembic gathering.
 
dw
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: crobbins on October 17, 2010, 01:55:47 PM
>>On a related note, I'm curious how many of us have showed up to a gig, only to have the supporting or headlining act demand to use our equipment??? It seems this type of request has become the rule rather than the exception of late...
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: gtrguy on October 18, 2010, 12:05:22 PM
I was at a jam this Sat and a guy knocked over a mic and stand and it crashed right into the fretboard of a guy's nice old Gibson SG and did it some damage that he will be fingering for as long as he plays the instrument. Stuff happens.
 
I once took my old vintage Porsche 911 into DEQ back when they drove them on the dyno to check them, and the clowns had every inspector in the place take turns driving it. They told me they were having a hard time getting it to 'match the curve' on the computer. They were all grinning like mad as they sat there like it was a video game.
 
Once your possesion is out of your hands it's at the mercy of who ever has it.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: oddmetersam on October 18, 2010, 10:11:15 PM
For me, it's not even about my Alembic, since she's relatively late to the dance, being my 7th (and last) bass since high school graduation. I treat all my basses with the same reverence and respect. So far, most other players have gotten that vibe from me and usually don't even ask.
 
But if you are a dear friend, then by definition you can have a go at her! But I WILL pre-flight her with you; going over the controls, asking you to remove your belt; running the cord through the strap for strain relief to prevent pulling the jack out of the body (I normally play sitting down and don't use a strap); reminding you that a 35 scale means the headstock is really far away from the body and to always be mindful of the resulting kill zone, etc. At some point I also reiterate she's a posthumous gift from my mother and embodies her spirit.
 
By that time, they usually play really crappy cuz' they're scared shitless!  
 
But as stated previously, if we are at an Alembic gathering I trust you implicitly....
 
(Message edited by oddmetersam on October 18, 2010)
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: bigredbass on October 18, 2010, 11:31:05 PM
Of course, you get the asshats who think it's an Olympic, doesn't want to play some Jap bass, and holds out for somebody's rotgut Fender.  Or . . .
 
You get the guy who brought his rattletrap, crusty-stringed pawnshop special in, buzzes, beerstains and all, couple roaches in his case, and can NOT believe I'm such a snob as to not let him play my 'fancy' bass. Or . . . .
 
I occasionally will let a known-to-me pro try it.  They get this glow in their eyes, and say, 'now I know what the big deal is about these things'.  THAT's when it's fun.   Or . . .
 
I just say NO.  Doesn't bother me one bit.
 
J o e y
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: cozmik_cowboy on October 19, 2010, 06:01:07 AM
You get the guy who brought his rattletrap, crusty-stringed pawnshop special in, buzzes, beerstains and all, couple roaches in his case, and can NOT believe I'm such a snob as to not let him play my 'fancy' bass.
 
Roaches in the case?  Hell, no - if they won't share why should anyone else?  
 
Peter
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: rjmsteel on October 19, 2010, 04:42:02 PM
I hav\nt even got my custom yet, although soon enough, and you guys are making me have second thoughts about letting the guys I was going to have a try!  
 
 
Ok MAYBE 1 or 2: 1 already has an Epic & the other is just a great player and is laid back.
 
Rich
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: bigredbass on October 19, 2010, 09:43:04 PM
No, Pete, REAL roaches.  See, I really played a lot of those places your mother warned you about !
 
J o e y
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: 811952 on October 20, 2010, 08:16:36 AM
I have yet to say no when someone wants to play my Alembic.  I have mentioned to a couple of folks over the years just what the replacement cost would be should they break it, and I don't let it out of my sight or too far from my person (except at the Chicago gathering, but you understand...).  No regrets thus far.
 
John
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: cozmik_cowboy on October 20, 2010, 08:44:06 AM
Yeah, me too, Joey - hey, this sounds like a thread; What's the worst place you ever played?
See you over in Misc.
 
Peter
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: edwin on October 20, 2010, 08:55:55 AM
My philosophy was pretty much identical to John when I had my '78 Series I. It was so beat up and yet so indestructible that I had confidence that unless the person was an obvious sociopath, it seemed safe. It was pretty awesome how many times I was able to blow people away when they came up and asked Is that an Alembic? and I'd reply Yes! and thrust it into their hands! I also try to get my Starfire into people's hands if possible as it's unlike what most people play. However, I'm not sure what my policy is going to be on my new Series I.
 
I should mention that the last time I went to a jam session was probably 1998. These days it's pretty much all people who are on the same bill, so at least they've been vetted to the point where they are competent enough to get a gig.
 
At the end of the day, my basses are tools meant to be used, so they go out into the real world with me and are exposed to whatever is there. Plus, they are insured!
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: george_wright on October 20, 2010, 10:18:23 AM
As long-time members will remember, my main instrument is a baritone sax.  At first you might think, Well, no worries about people asking to play somebody else's reed instrument.  But at sax get-togethers, folks bring their own mouthpieces, so it's feasible.  The usual practice, in my experience, is that you don't bring an instrument you wouldn't mind somebody else playing.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: toma_hawk01 on October 20, 2010, 01:21:14 PM
Right on George, thanks for that message...
 
Peace and Love,
 
Hal-
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: tmoney61092 on October 20, 2010, 03:19:20 PM
if i'm going to a jam session, i'm NOT going to bring my favorite/best bass. i'm going to bring the neck best thing or really anything that if it got knocked a couple times i'm not going to be killing the person who did it. but injuries do happen on stage, i was playing infront of my high school for all the seniors when our guitarist was soloing and brought his guitar up in the air real quick without paying attention and hit my brother(lead singer/guitarist)on the eyebrow, potentially fatal situation barely avoided...
 
~Taylor
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: briant on October 21, 2010, 11:21:50 AM
At the end of the day, my basses are tools meant to be used, so they go out into the real world with me and are exposed to whatever is there. Plus, they are insured!
 
Thank you.  My thoughts exactly.
 
Some time ago I realized that only my Alembic basses were making that sound happen for me.  As a result they are all I ever bring to any musical situation I involve myself in.
 
However just because I bring them doesn't mean other people get to play them or check them out.  There have only been a handful of people who have played my Alembics (or any of my instruments for that matter).  All have been trusted friends/bandmates.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: charles_holmes on October 24, 2010, 01:58:04 PM
Well,
The only player that will touch my Alembic (if I choose to do so)will be a bassist that I have known for years and I know that will respect my axe. But check this out, about 25yrs ago in the rehearsal hall in South Philadelphia where I rehearsed with a group called Sparkle, I had my double bass proped up against the wall, there was this dumb assed girl that sang in the band that thought she could fit in the gap between the bass and the wall, needless to say she knocked the bass over and broke the scroll of the bass off! It cost a couple of hundred bucks to fix (she said she would pay me and never did...jerk!)
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: DaveD on February 01, 2011, 09:26:44 PM
Here's a story about something I reluctantly subjected my poor Exploiter to. I'm ashamed but I learned a lesson. It's the 1st article at the top of the page.
 
http://davedemarco.homestead.com/bizarre.html (http://davedemarco.homestead.com/bizarre.html)
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: terryc on February 02, 2011, 01:43:40 AM
Had that once done to me..I told him to f*** off!
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: gtrguy on February 02, 2011, 11:51:24 AM
I think it's a good idea to decide way ahead of time what you will do if someone asks to play your instrument. That way you are never surprised or at a loss for words. Alembics are so rare they always seem to bring out odd reactions in people, from the 'you must be a Barbie-Bass snob' to 'Wow, that's soooo pretty'.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: benson_murrensun on February 03, 2011, 12:02:12 PM
Here's a funny one, along the same lines: Last night my sweetie, a neophyte bassist, purchased a brandy-new Danelectro Longhorn; and right from the music store we went directly to a bar where I was scheduled to play a set with some guys I know. We let her sit in on the last tune, so she got to use her new bass. Right after that a woman we don't know came to our table and announced that she had an upright bass and wanted to try the new Dano. Even though the new bass is an el-cheapo masonite guitar, it IS brand new, and my sweetie wanted no part of it being in a stranger's hands. She was at no loss for words, and told the woman, Sorry, I just don't do that. The woman left in a huff... Well, excuuuuuuuse me!
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: terryc on February 03, 2011, 12:29:21 PM
My drum buddy who has an expensive array of kits once let a guy play his Craviotto Pro Kit(extremely expensive, inlaid ebony, solid maple shells, an Alembic to drum on really)
Anyway when the band started up and he seen his kit getting the 'death metal' thrashing, went up on stage and took the sticks off the guy and told him go away..the band was dumb struck..I wasn't as I have seen him do this before..now he doesn't let anyone(except me and a couple of others) near his kits.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: kimberly on February 03, 2011, 06:25:08 PM
Hi Guys,  
 
Thought I'd chip in on this one.  
 
I always play my Alembic, for both performances and open mike(s).  It's just the way I am.  To me it's an amazing playing and sounding instrument *and* a tool I use to ply my craft. Not to mention just plain good fun to play. Anyway....  
 
I'm pretty fortunate that in four years of hosting my open mike, I've only had a couple of situations where someone asked to play my bass.  Both times the 'askers' wouldn't accept my said with a smile, polite, Sorry, but I don't let anyone else play my instrument, but you're welcome to come back some other time and bring your own bass. Both times they became somewhat indignant that I, (a woman), had the nerve/audacity to refuse them.  Both times I stood my ground, stayed polite and listened to their stories of how good they were, how careful they'd be and, what cool basses they had.  Me always saying when they were through talking, Sorry, I just don't let anyone else play my instrument, etc, etc.  And just like clockwork they became more and more insistent, and reiterate how good they are etc, etc and finally leave in a huff, grumbling all the way out the door.  I just shake my head and smile.  
 
Needless to say I've yet to let anyone play my Alembic at an open mike.  
 
  However, here's where it gets good.    I'm opening a new open mike in a couple of weeks and in speaking with my 'regular performers', one of them reminded me about one of the two guys that I wouldn't let play my bass.  'Hmmmm, yeah vaguely.' I say.  Well it turns out one of these guys, and I quote, Hates my guts and thinks I'm a really big bitch, all cause I wouldn't let him play my bass at my open mike.  :D
 
What's so good about all this you wonder?  
 
Care to guess where he works at?  Yup, my new open mike.  :D  Gonna be interesting, cause if he askes to play my Alembic, he's going to get the same ole story.  Sorry, but......  :D
 
Honestly?  I'm looking forward to crossing paths/swords with him again.  Brings a smile to my face right now as I'm typing this message.  
 
Best Regards,
 
Kimberly  
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: artswork99 on February 03, 2011, 06:30:13 PM
LOL, go get him Kimberly!
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: sonicus on February 03, 2011, 07:19:27 PM
Good for you Kimberly , I think it's great that you intend to hold your ground on this issue. If anything this persistent fellow owes you an apology for his seemingly socially inept behavior. After the first no from you he should have gotten the message and after that it sounds like he is just begging like a child. You are in good form to stay polite  and keep your composure if he starts to act up again. Perhaps he will grow up sooner then later  and save him self from look like a fool.
 
    Sonic Regards
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: oujeebass on February 03, 2011, 08:25:37 PM
Like my grandma used to say, if you can't lose it, you couldn't afford it in the first place. Yeah, whatever. Right?
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: lbpesq on February 03, 2011, 09:44:29 PM
Last Saturday evening, my band, Stonetrout played unplugged, (actually using acoustic guitars and a cajon drum box, and vocals though the P.A., electric bass and small bass amp), at a party following the California NORML conference.  The party was in an art gallery and was pretty crowded with us set up at one end of the gallery - no stage.  During a break, I was asked if someone could play a few songs using my guitar.  I was playing my 1953 Martin D-28.  I felt a little uncomfortable considering how crowded the party was and how close the people were to us while we were playing.  It wasn't easy, but I just said it's a '53 Martin - I don't let anyone play it.  Actually, I have no problem letting someone try it in my living room or some other controlled environment, but at the party I had visions of someone falling into it while someone else was playing it, then handing me the pieces and saying sorry, man.  
 
Bill, tgo
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: slawie on February 04, 2011, 12:18:43 AM
I find that people wanting to play my Alembic genuinly want to try it out and therefore do not abuse it after I let them know the cost and my expectations should the instrument is not the same as they picjed it up. The fretless is a little intimidating because the markers on the side of the neck are really hard to see plus the position 3 marker is totally missing I patched the hole and it is invisible unless you really look for it. I really don't mind because I stay close by. They only mostly noodle around. Once some random bloke played the sweetest tune that madee my bass sing. It was really really nice.
 
If someone comes up who wants to play my 1977 fender I say flat out NO! because it is setup with Alembic pickups, Badass bridge, bright Dean Markleys blue steels - it is a slapping machine.
 
I couldn't blame anyone for wanting to play my basses but I really sus out those who appreciate the finest in musical instrument making craftmanship (craftpersonship) and those slappyheads that want to beat a rhythm and generally try to compete in wanker one-up-manship.
Maybe it is an ego thing.
 
slawie
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: terryc on February 04, 2011, 01:56:52 AM
Ibpesq..you have a 53 Martin...oh I used to dream about them when I was a teenager..never ever seen one in the flesh..I bet the tone is just absolutley outstanding..
You don't see many of them here in the UK
(don't suppose you send me a pic to my private e mail address, just so I can drool)
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: glocke on February 04, 2011, 03:39:05 AM
IMO it takes alot of balls, ignorance or just plain ol' stupidity to even think of picking someone else's instrument up that you don't know.  I personally would never think of putting another player that I don't know into that kind of position.
 
Heck, even people that I do know irritate me when it comes to this stuff.  I've had several people that I know on a casual basis pick up my instruments without asking, and I always end up looking like an asshole when the words dude I really wish you wouldnt do that come out of  my mouth.   On the one hand I can't blame them for wanting to try it, but Im also looking out for myself here, as I don't want to pay for repairs from damage caused by someone else's carelessness.
 
Also, FWIW I've never touched another musicians expensive instrument unless I was invited to do so, and even than I was hesitant to really do too much with it.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: jazzyvee on February 04, 2011, 05:05:50 AM
As much as I may be curious about someone else's instrument I don't think I've ever asked anyone to play theirs. I think it's partly because I've not had a burning desire to mess with anything that isn't mine plus I wouldn't want to return the favour hehehe.
 
If there was been an instrument I really like, and there have not been many, I think I would just get a focus on what I liked about it then try to check it out in a music shop. But to be honest there haven't been many basses or guitars I've seen that I would want to play in preference to my own so even that is not something that's gonna happen very often.
 
The thought of someone damaging it and not paying is too much of a risk at a gig or jam session.
Have there been any mishaps on any of the alembic meet sessions?
 
Jazzyvee
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: eligilam on February 04, 2011, 07:09:26 AM
I was at an open night jam thing in Charleston, SC once...pre-Alembic days, but I brought my (then) favorite axe, my trusty '91 Ric 4003.  
 
When I arrived (sketchy part of town), there were some characters milling around the parking lot---what's the politically correct term for homeless people?  They were bumming change and smokes from people going into the open mic.
 
Anyway, long story short, after my part of the set I was inside the bar mingling and whatnot before the next group got up.  One of the peddlers from outside had made it in..he approached me and asked if he could play my Ric at the start of the next set.  I politely said No and that I was about to leave (which I was, IIRC).
 
He successfully bummed an Ibanez from one of the other guys there that seemed a little sympathetic to the guy (who apparently was sort of a well-known down-and-out neighborhood character).
 
Wouldn't you know it?  That guy freaking KILLED the bass, striking up some crazy funk riffs (Larry Graham, perhaps?) and leading the whole crowd with vocals, dancing, bass soloing, etc.  I was genuinely impressed.  I think I bought him a beer after his tune.  He vanished again after that one song.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: sonicus on February 04, 2011, 07:21:39 AM
There is talent all around us. That is a good story.  We are all human after all . So much potential and so much of it has not had the opportunity to be fully realized and has not had recognition in  the ART & MUSIC scene.
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: toma_hawk01 on February 05, 2011, 06:20:46 PM
A very moving story Will.
 
I know people like this where I grew up. It's sad, but there's something beautiful in the story too.
 
That was a great read.
 
Peace and Love,
 
Hal-
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: dela217 on February 05, 2011, 07:33:38 PM
I was in a house band that hosted an open mic for several years.  It was a weekly event and every time I played I used an Alembic.  Every week different bassists played my bass, some of the players well known.  
 
At that time, I usually brought out different Alembics as the mood struck me.  It could have been anything from 72-16 to my graphite necked Series II.  Everyone always respected my gear and after all those years there was never any abuse.
 
There was one time that I was playing a different gig and had the graphite Series II with me.  We were on a break when a fight near the stage broke out.  Somehow the fight ended up on stage and the Series II went flying across the stage.  I suspected the worst, but the bass only suffered a surface scratch on the back of the body.
 
I guess I'm lucky.  I wouldn't think of not bringing a bass to a gig because it is too nice, or if I was worried about damage.  I enjoy playing them too much!
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: melancholy_mechanic on March 10, 2011, 09:17:29 AM
I spent a couple years hosting open mics and I had a specific rig/bass that I usually brought.  I was playing in some pretty rough places and I knew that there was a pretty good chance that someone might blow my amp or take a chunk out of my bass
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: sonicus on March 10, 2011, 10:03:56 AM
I remember once when at a jam a fellow was playing through my Black Face  Fender Dual Showman  . I had it connected to one of my Alembic A-15 cabinets. He had brought in his speaker cabinet and decided he waned to hear his speaker in comparison to mine through my Dual Showman. While he had the amplifier on with  well over 75% output capacity he unplugged the 1/4' speaker out jack from my Amp and then realized that he did not have the correct speaker cable for his because my Alembic A-15 has Banana plug connections and he needed 1/4'  to 1/4' for his cabinet. Next he runs around  asking people if they had a speaker cable that would fit his cabinet. All this was happening while I was taking a break in another part of the building. When I came back I could smell my poor fried Dual Showman.BURNT TOAST !  This guy insisted it was not his fault and all I ever got fro him was a smirk and a half baked insincere  sorry. That was a sad story but don't lose any sleep over it any more since it was well over 30 years ago.  
 
  Sonic Regards , never let the music stop !
Title: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: benson_murrensun on March 10, 2011, 10:16:24 AM
Here's a story from another angle. I did a gig opening for a headlining group; the word was that I could use the bass amp that was already set up for the other band. Got to sound check and the sound man said, yes, go ahead and use the amp. So I am happily playing away and here comes the bass player from the other band, AND HE WAS PISSED!  I told him that the sound man said it would be OK, but he was, shall we say, unimpressed, even though no damage was done. I bring my own amp nowadays....
Title: Re: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: jazzyvee on April 10, 2023, 03:51:38 AM
Well i broke with my own tradition last night. One of the 'really good' bass players in my local area has an essence 4 string which i have seen him using on a number of gigs in recent years.  Anyway he has expressed an interest in buying my Europa that i have just put up for sale. So when i found his blues band 'The Steve Ajao Blues Giants' were  gigging not too far from my home, i took the bass along for him to try out.
He used it for the whole gig even though he had his essence with him and loved it. He said the neck felt natural and didn't have to adjust his playing at all, loved the sound, well everything about the bass. However he didn't think senior management would approve since he already has a good number of basses. On the upside it gave me the chance to hear it out front. It did sound really good, though his tone choice is completely different to mine since he uses effects to get that edgyness which i hear in all blues band bassists except Richard Cousins of the Robert Cray Band.

There were a few heart attack moments for me when a couple of really drunk punters were staggering much too close to the bass on it's stand, so i got up and moved it closer to the bass rig and out of the way. I was glad to get it back and he has some seriuos thinking to do.  hahaha.
Title: Re: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: Mlazarus on April 24, 2023, 09:46:09 PM
You guys got me started. I do let people play my bass, but they are respectable people I know and sometimes I let them play my series 1 so I can stand back and hear how it sounds.

My stress is the A-type arrogant drunk A--hole who likes to show off and act like a crazed-out maniac. Imagine that type taking your bass and running around with it acting like a rock star. He can't play because he's not a musician, just a drunken fool who you can't reason with. We know this type: the one who THINKS he is popular and knows everyone fears him. He's the big guy on Campus who walks around with an Aire about him, and HE is the one who picks up your bass and breaks it! Walks away. You know you can't do anything to him, yet after the damage is done, the stupid girlfriends and buddies still laugh and joke with him. No care, no remorse. Then later tell you "Sorry I'll get you a new bass for $300.00! He doesn't know he just broke an $8000.00 bass. People Don't understand. Most people THINK the bass is the FUN TOY instrument that anyone can pick up and jam with! No respect. This is the typical college campus situation.
Title: Re: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: edwardofhuncote on April 24, 2023, 11:31:37 PM
Oh no. Did this actually happen, or is it (hopefully) a hypothetical?



Title: Re: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: Mlazarus on April 25, 2023, 02:07:54 AM
It didn't happen, but ive known people like that. They are sociopaths, pycho or just idiots. Beware of those types. They're usually drunk or high.
Title: Re: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: Mlazarus on April 25, 2023, 02:09:54 AM
I typically keep bass in its hard shell case between sets.
Title: Re: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: Picure on May 16, 2023, 09:18:58 PM
Everyone I play with have a rough idea how expensive my S1 is so no one really Fs around my Alembic 😂
Title: Re: Has your Alembic suffered damage at a Jam session?
Post by: jazzyvee on May 16, 2023, 11:43:47 PM
Everyone I play with have a rough idea how expensive my S1 is so no one really Fs around my Alembic 😂
Same here, in fact since my regular band can see how careful i am with it, they have become quite protective about it.