Book Review: 'Basics for Bassists' By Murphy Karges – A Journey Beyond The Strings

Music, at its core, is a story. It transcends technicality and weaves together notes, emotions, and human experiences. In his debut book Basics for Bassists: Or How to Not Suck at Playing Bass, Murphy Karges, the founding bassist of the chart-topping band Sugar Ray, captures this essence beautifully. This isn’t just a manual for mastering the bass guitar — it’s an ode to the instrument, the art of music-making, and a testament to what it means to be a musician.

I was fortunate enough to receive a signed copy from Murphy himself, a gesture that instantly speaks to his generosity as a musician and a storyteller. In my years running The Sound Cafe, I’ve had the privilege of encountering numerous artists and their works, but Basics for Bassists stands out for its sheer honesty, humour, and depth. Murphy isn’t just teaching you how to play bass; he’s guiding you on a journey of self-discovery, encouraging you to find your voice through your instrument. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or someone just starting out, this book offers invaluable wisdom — both on and off the fretboard.

A Bassist’s Toolbox, Crafted with Care

At its most practical, Basics for Bassists is exactly what its title suggests — a comprehensive guide to the fundamental techniques of bass playing. Murphy draws from over three decades of experience, breaking down everything from scales to song construction in a way that’s accessible and insightful. There’s no condescending “teacher’s tone” here, though. Murphy speaks to his readers like a mentor, someone who’s walked the walk and is now sharing the hard-earned lessons.

What makes this book stand out is the balance it strikes between technical knowledge and real-world application. Whether it’s mastering essential notes, understanding the role of a bassist in a band, or decoding the construction of modern songs, Murphy ensures that every chapter is rooted in practical, usable advice. You’ll find sections on rhythm, dynamics, and tone, alongside explanations of how to play with feel and groove — elements that are often overlooked but crucial to becoming a solid player.

The Voice of Experience

Murphy’s voice, as a writer, is both candid and relatable. He’s not shy about his missteps, and in fact, he embraces them as learning tools. He doesn’t just tell you what works; he also tells you what doesn’t, and why. In a world filled with instruction books that are often sterile and detached, Basics for Bassists feels refreshingly human.

Take, for example, his anecdotes about life on the road with Sugar Ray. Rather than simply recounting tour stories, Murphy uses them as lessons — about perseverance, teamwork, and the unpredictable nature of the music business. These glimpses behind the curtain give the book a depth that goes far beyond the typical instructional guide. For aspiring musicians, the lessons extend beyond the bass to encompass the realities of being a working musician, dealing with band dynamics, and staying creative in the face of commercial pressures.

Humour and Heart

One of the most striking elements of Basics for Bassists is Murphy’s sense of humour. Learning an instrument can often feel like a daunting task, especially for beginners. But Murphy’s lighthearted approach makes the journey feel not only achievable but fun. His witty, often self-deprecating anecdotes will keep you laughing throughout, which is no small feat for a music manual.

In a world where technical skill is often presented as the pinnacle of musicianship, Murphy reminds us that passion and playfulness are equally important. He encourages readers to embrace the process of learning — to take risks, make mistakes, and most importantly, to enjoy the ride. His writing is peppered with moments of wisdom, both musical and personal. For instance, his reflections on creativity and fearlessness hit home not just for musicians but for anyone pursuing a craft.

The bass, often relegated to the background, is brought to the forefront here. Murphy celebrates the unique role of the bassist — the glue that holds a band together, the pulse of the rhythm section, and the subtle yet indispensable force that drives a song forward.

Beyond Bass: Life Lessons from a Musician

Perhaps what makes Basics for Bassists so compelling is that it isn’t just a book about playing an instrument; it’s a book about life. Murphy weaves life lessons into every chapter, touching on themes of perseverance, communication, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. He talks about the power of collaboration, the necessity of failure, and the beauty of self-expression.

One particularly poignant section of the book focuses on the importance of identifying key figures in your musical journey. Whether it’s mentors, bandmates, or collaborators, Murphy emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships in the music world. As someone who’s spent years building connections through The Sound Cafe, this struck a personal chord with me. In music, as in life, who you surround yourself with can make all the difference.

Murphy also offers insights into the creative process, encouraging readers to take risks and push the boundaries of their own artistry. He shares his thoughts on songwriting, discussing not just the mechanics but the emotional and psychological aspects of creating music. For anyone looking to delve deeper into their own creative process, these sections are worth their weight in gold.

A Guide for All Musicians

While the title may suggest this book is only for bassists, Basics for Bassists has something to offer musicians of all kinds. Murphy’s insights into music theory, rhythm, and performance are universal, and his life lessons are applicable to anyone pursuing a creative endeavor. Whether you’re a guitarist, drummer, or vocalist, there’s wisdom here for you.

For those new to the bass, this book is an excellent starting point, offering a solid foundation on which to build your skills. But even for more advanced players, Murphy’s experience and perspective provide valuable insights that can help you take your playing to the next level. He doesn’t just teach you how to play bass; he teaches you how to think like a musician.

Conclusion: A Must-Read for Musicians and Music Lovers Alike

Basics for Bassists by Murphy Karges is far more than just a how-to manual for bass players. It’s an engaging, humorous, and deeply insightful exploration of what it means to be a musician. Murphy’s passion for music shines through every page, and his ability to blend technical instruction with life lessons makes this book a standout in its genre.

Whether you’re a seasoned bassist looking for a fresh perspective or a complete beginner just starting out, Basics for Bassists will inspire you to pick up your instrument and play. But beyond that, it will remind you why you fell in love with music in the first place — and that, in my opinion, is the greatest gift any musician can offer.

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