Playing the guitar in "pocket" - 5 simple steps

When playing in the situation of a band, group or combo, there is a word often called "in the pocket".

And no ... "Inside the pocket" does not point to where you put your hands at the gig! Simply put, when the band is playing in "in the pocket" they are playing "in sync" with each other musically.

First of all it is important to recognize that the band can play the same song at the same time on the stage, but in reality they are not played back synchronously with each other.

This can be compared with the old analogy of 8 cylinder engine. Even if the engine is starting with only 6 or 7 cylinders, the car will get on the road and eventually arrive at the destination. However, cars may cough, rebound, or hesitate on the way.

Conversely, if the engine is running on all eight cylinders, ride will be smooth and easy.

When the band is playing in "in the pocket", it runs smoothly with all eight cylinders.

The song "pocket" is its "core of rhythm". A layered basis for all other instruments, vocals, and melodies.

Quite often, the term "in pocket" is used to describe the ability of drummers and base players to "lock in" to the song 's rhythmic core. As a result, drummers and base players are often referred to as "pocket players" many times.

However, as a guitarist, we also have the ability to contribute to the "pocket" of the song.

There are several things that guitar players can concentrate to play in "in the pocket" in the band.

1. "Please listen" "Please ask us"

As a guitar player, it is natural that we concentrate on what we are doing individually. We are often crazy about surprising the audience with our lead and solo.

However, to play "in your pocket", you need a little mind shift from that of individual players to those of "team" players.

2. Pay attention

In order to become a better 'pocket player' we do not focus on what we are doing individually, we have to spend more time 'really listening' to what is happening around us It is necessary to spend.

Please concentrate more on "actually listening" to the individual parts that other players (drummer, bass player, keyboard player, horn etc) contribute to the work.

3. Contribute

Once you are proficient in really listening to the rest of the players around you, try your focus now on your contribution "pocket".

Please truly listen to how the guitar player plays the whole sound of the band as "whole".

4. Simple is better ... less than

Quite often, for the guitar player, the best contribution to the pocket is a "dusty solid crepe" string pattern that matches the snare drum - or a simple playing string that bells with bass.

Always keep in mind that the guitarist's rhythm must complement the bottom end. Using simple techniques, you can "breathe in" with enough space.

5. Feel it!

Except for all technical considerations, the ability to "play in the pocket" comes from learning how to actually play music in terms of "feeling".

Just by avoiding the natural tendency to "think" what you are doing and simply losing the "feel" of the song, you will be surprised how quickly you will find yourself in the pocket.

In conclusion

Please be aware that drummers and bass players are not alone responsible for finding "pockets". As a guitar player, we oblige our contribution.

Always remember that there is a difference between the band playing "in the pocket" and the band not playing it. But often, it's a wonderful line to distinguish a wonderful band from a wonderful band!