Mars called me up today and asked if i wanted to play one tune at the cd release party on Saturday. The slap bass feature. It wouldn't happen to be because his golden child can't slap for shit, could it?

I was tempted to say shove it, and I still may.

What do you think?

And I don't want to play for graduation either, but i will for the few good kids. That's the right thing to do. Doesn't mean I have to like it.

Well Id say do what you want. Take the opportunity to show people what you can do, and then let them ask why you arent in the band - and why the current bassist couldnt play the song. Or simply say thanks but no thanks.

Personally, Id play the shit out of that song.. and leave them regretting their decision

yeah i agree

I dunno dude.

This is a question my man and I were recently discussing. If a past creative partner burns you do you write them off for all of eternity?

Contrary to the crabby bitter thread I post a couple of weeks ago, I do not think it' sgood to harbour resentment toward those you burned out.

I'm just not sure if it's comprimising of yourself to give them the pleasure of relieving their guilt.

I guess it depends on how you read their gesture. Did they ask you because they want to show you there's no hard feelings and they respect you as a musician, etc... or is it just for their own sake?

edit: yeah f4df is right.

yeah, that's probably what I'll do. That and i don't want to burn any bridges if i can turn it into contacts when I move...

But god i'd love to just...

It would depend on why they want you to play. Is it because they feel you deserve a shot to participate in the event, or because they need you?

as far as they're concerned, in reality they need me, but they think they're throwing me a bone.

f4df is correct as always

My ex-bandmember told me he's starting a new band and then asked if Id like to "sing backing vocals".

When I wrote him the letter outlining how we'd split up the songwriting rights I added a P.S. that read:

"Regarding your request to sing backing vocals: I'd probably feel more fulfilled making Christmas cards with the mentally ill."

It felt good.

Yeah that sounds about right...you're the only one who can really decide what you feel like doing. You obviously played a key role in the record so if you'd like to play, do it. If not then, don't.

I don't think you gain anything really other than a brief moment of self satisfaction by saying shove it. If you aren't into playing with them and feel you're either in the band or you're not, than just say "thanks but no thanks" as paul said.

Id do whats best for you personally and professionally regardless of whether they benefit from it or not.. besides motives arent always so clean cut.. perhaps there is some guilt there they are trying to assuage as well. Meh I say, do what puts you in the best position to move on.

You can make it what you want it to be. Take what you want from it.

f4df is wise, as usual. I say you should make it blisteringly good, and feel good about it whatever happens next.

Maybe I'll be like, I don't want to step on the new kid's gig, but throw me and deena on the list. We haven't gone to a show in ages, it's always worrying about gear, sound check, etc.

I used to love seeing this band. Maybe we'll just go dance.

That sounds like fun. Maybe it will give you some closure too.

I'd tell them to shove it unless you're getting paid for the gig.

I wouldn't play the shit out of the song, if you do the gig.

Then people will say, "Oh, that's why they kicked him out- 'cause he overplays."

Personally, I wouldn't do it, but I'd tell them thanks anyhoo.

are you gonna get paid? If not, I'd say no.

I'd play their tune; do what you do best and then split. Hell with motives, what is works out in your favour and sends you further along in the end.

1.) Five minute bass solo

2.) Play the song perfectly - one half step sharp

I'd respectfully decline. Sometimes in life, you just have to move on. I think this is one of those times.

think about it backwards.
how you'll feel afterwards if you go and kick ass vs how you'll feel if you say no and avoid the whole thing.

do what's best for you.
for a change.

It's a slap bass feature, there's no way to do it tastefully, and anyone who sees the new guy play could never accuse me of overplaying.

It's like i got kicked out for not overplaying enough. Say wha?

yes ma'am.

Hey Phil, do you have a copy of this song to send me? Id like to hear it