Slap Bass - Triplets
Triplets are basically three notes that are played in the space where you would normally play two notes. In slap bass, triplets are used to create fast, percussive lines, to add rhythm to a bassline. We will be using them to construct fills over standard bass grooves.
A triplet is a rhythm playing three notes in the space of two. That is, three evenly spaced notes in the space of two notes of the same rhythmic value.
A triplet is not any grouping of three notes. Some people think that three notes played close together are triplets. A triplet is a specific rhythm, not a grouping of notes.
Other triplets exist, too. The next most common is the quarter note triplet. A quarter note triplet is three notes dividing the space of two quarter notes (the same space as a half note).
Playing 8th Note Triplets
It’s really important to learn to feel and play the 8th note triplet rhythm. You will encounter it in most every style of music. The 8th note triplet is an essential rhythmic element for many styles like blues, jazz, and a lot of rock.
A lot of people ask whether they need to pluck triplets with 3 fingers instead of just two. Some people do that, but it’s certainly not necessary.
After playing steady 8th triplets comfortably, you’ll want to be able to go freely between other rhythms and the triplets. As with everything, practice enough and it will become automatic.
Exercises
Fill #1
Play at full speed, over the main riff. Learn these notes, individually, at a slow speed until your fingers move naturally. You can break down the sections into small patterns. Play them in clusters, with three fingers, then move to the next section. It is the best way to learn long, complicated basslines.
You can use the same technique and basic pattern to create your own basslines.
Fill #2
This fill has ghost notes, to create a more percussive sound. Ghost notes are muted, while they are played. They are more complex, and they are used to add texture, contrast, and a funky sound. They can be intimidating at full speed, but it is easy to play at a slower speed. These short runs of notes will build up muscle memory, and to build up speed.
This pattern can be played anywhere on the neck. It can used to create fills, and thicken the sound of your bass.
Fill #3
This pattern follows the basic idea for fills, by combining three rapid triplets in succession. Keep your hand relaxed and your fingers loose, over the scratch plate. Try to keep your thumb almost parallel with the strings. It makes playing this type of line easier.
Fill #4
This fill is reminiscent of Mark King’s basslines for Level 42. It has a staccato feel, which is a short, jumpy sounding note. Play this with a pop and a muted palm slap. It may be difficult to play a muted palm slap without playing an actual note. This is why it is important to keep your hand relaxed.
The trick is all in the hand action. Don’t rush yourself to play to this with speed. Again, learn to play it at a slower speed until you’re comfortable and have developed some muscle memory. It will be a lot easier to pick up the tempo, and sound cleaner.
Slap Bass Books
