Here’s an example of a Ska groove.

Audio Example 1

Audio Example 1 (Drums)

 

IDIOMS

RHYTHMIC:

In this type of Ska line, the grooves typically have 8th-note subdivisions. The bass lines range from steady streams of 8th-notes to quirky parts that mix things up with occasional rests.

The time feel normally ranges from slightly on top (as in Example 1) to distinctly on top and driving the tune along (particularly with some of the more “caffeinated” tempos). The latter helps to convey the energy and excitement.

HARMONIC:

Most Ska is fairly “inside”, harmonically, usually not straying from diatonic harmony. Meat and potatoes groove intervals and arpeggios can work well for building grooves. Most bass lines in this vein employ a fair amount of motion.

SONIC:

A pick approach (as I employed in Example 1) is commonly heard in this type of Ska. The normal tonal objective is along the lines of either a P-bass or Stingray (warm and solid low end, but with aggressive mid’s for punch and presence. Avoid too much of the hi-fi sound.

GENERAL:

In this style of playing, it’s far more important to make the correct emotional statement with the bass line than it is to be technically perfect and squeaky-clean. Even if you’re not a kid, and even if your strap length doesn’t have your bass down near your knees...try to authentically convey this style of bass line with youthful energy, a sense of fun and reckless abandon.