The SBL Podcast

Latest Episodes:

192- I dismissed Pino Palladino (The Truth) Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

Ever look back and cringe at your early bass choices? Scott and Ian swap stories about the mistakes they made chasing speed and flash — including the time they dismissed players like Pino Palladino, Michael League, and Jonathan Maron as “boring.” They break down how your ear (and your priorities) change over time — and why it matters.

190- The Dark Side of YouTube May 26, 2025

Show notes

Scott and Ian get real about the ups and downs of learning music on YouTube. It’s one of the most powerful tools available to musicians today, but it also comes with some serious pitfalls. From confusing advice to the pressure of chasing views, they break down eight common issues that can affect how we learn and teach online. The good news? When used thoughtfully, YouTube can still be an amazing place to grow as a musician.

189- I took a lesson from a LEGEND (and was disappointed) May 19, 2025

Show notes

Music theory gets thrown around a lot—but what does it really mean? In this episode, Scott and Ian break down why the term is often too broad to be helpful, sharing stories from their own journeys (including lessons with legends) and how those experiences shaped their view of theory. It’s a practical, no-fluff take on functional harmony that’ll actually stick.

188- OK. Let’s talk about Giacomo Turra… and the bigger questions behind the controversy. May 12, 2025

Show notes

Scott and Ian dive into the recent firestorm around guitarist Giacomo Turra—from miming and monetizing others’ solos to what it really means to be a musician on social media today.
But this isn’t just about one creator—it’s about blurred lines, internet fame, and how we define integrity, performance, and progress in the modern music world.

Miming?
Copying vs. stealing?
Monetizing someone else’s solo?

Let’s unpack the nuance.

187- Why MOST bassists are DOOMED :( May 08, 2025

Show notes

Scott and Ian dig into 12 common (and surprisingly relatable) reasons bassists hit a wall—and spoiler: it’s not just about not practicing. This episode gets honest (in a good way), with plenty of insights, laughs, and “wait… that’s me” moments. Even Ian felt called out by a few of these! Which ones resonate with you?

186- Rating 10 GREATEST Bass Lines of ALL TIME (according to WatchMojo) Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

Scott and Ian take on WatchMojo’s list of the 10 Greatest Bass Lines of All Time—do they live up to the hype or fall flat? From feel and pocket to creativity, tone, and those unforgettable hooks, they’re rating what really makes a bass line legendary (and which ones get a “meh”). If you’ve ever wanted to level up and find out what skills might be holding you back, click here for the bonus quiz!

185 - Rex Brown: The BONECRUSHING bass lines of Pantera Apr 11, 2025

Show notes

What makes a bass line cut through in a heavy band like Pantera? In this episode, Ian Allison sits down with Rex Brown to find out. Rex walks us through a few of his most iconic lines—including the growling groove of “I’m Broken” and shares what it took to hold down the low end in one of metal’s loudest, heaviest bands. If you’re into classic hard rock riffs, thunderous tone, or just want to hear a legend talk shop, this one hits hard.

184 - Berklee College of Music - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Apr 06, 2025

Show notes

What really happens when you go to one of the most famous music schools in the world? In this episode, Sharon pulls back the curtain on her time at Berklee College of Music as Scott digs into the highs, the lows, and the stuff you don’t hear in the brochures. From late-night jam sessions to lessons learned side by side with other hungry young musicians, Sharon reflects on how community—not curriculum—shaped her most. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to come up in a place like Berklee, you’ll want to hear this.

183 - NEW 5 string arrived. It's INSANE. Mar 30, 2025

Show notes

Scott’s got a brand new 5-string, and it’s shaking things up. In this episode, he and Ian dig into what makes it so special and why 5-strings deserve way more love.

From tone and feel to gig-ready setups, it’s a deep dive into the gear, the playing, and the choices that shape your sound. Whether you’re thinking of switching it up or just curious what all the fuss is about — this one’s worth a listen.

182 - 5 ICONIC Bass Lines that use EVERY. LAST. FRET. Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

Ready to stretch out beyond your usual comfort zone? In this episode, Scott and Ian explore five epic bass lines that make full use of the fingerboard. We're talking top to bottom, end to end.

Along the way, you’ll pick up tips on fretboard visualization, targeting key notes, and making the entire neck feel like home.

These riffs aren't just cool. They're a masterclass in using the whole instrument.

PS. If you're a member and you'd like to download the workbook for this lesson just click the link below. If you're not a member yet and you'd like to grab the FREE workbook just click here!

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