Courtesy of Fender Com
By Thomas Semioli
Prog-metal often does not garner the recognition (especially in the mainstream) for musical excellence that it so richly deserves – though publications such as the new edition of Bass Player are changing that. The genre has been at the forefront of innovation, especially on our instrument – from the use of tonal effects, its adventurous tendency for time-signature traversing passages, to extended range, and beyond.
Bassist Martin Mendez straddles the traditional role of the bassist and the challenges of underpinning the complexities of Opeth’s compositions – both on stage and on record. However unlike many of his prog-metal peers – Mendez keeps it relatively “simple” – using the time tested Fender Jazz bass (including the Deluxe V) run (mostly) organically through a Fender Super Bassman amp, SVT, or Ampeg.
Among the most influential ensembles of its ilk, Opeth’s comprehensive canon incorporates elements of jazz, classical, folk, Goth, blues, and old-school prog – which is why they’ve been working their craft for over thirty years.
Dig Martin’s Five Tips for Bassists as reported on Music Radar:
Learn your scales
Take more risks
“Just play from the heart”
Watch that need for speed
Find the best of the best
Martin Mendez Sound & Vision…
Talking bass on Opeth’s Official Page https://youtu.be/vlVqGbwxU6g
“Ingen Sanning Är Allas” https://youtu.be/iOLTyUBXuY4
“Sorceress” Live at Red Rocks https://youtu.be/8Fc0pbZxlo8
“Demon of the Fall” https://youtu.be/OOwmZwpQkrs
Courtesy of Opeth Com