Meaning: This quote by Matt Cameron, the drummer for the iconic rock bands Soundgarden and Pearl Jam, provides an insightful comparison between two influential bassists, Ben Shepherd and Jeff Ament. By breaking down the musical styles and approaches of these two talented musicians, Cameron sheds light on their distinct characteristics and contributions to their respective bands.

Firstly, let's delve into the description of Ben Shepherd's style as "more improvisational" and "relied less on methodology." This suggests that Shepherd's approach to playing the bass is more spontaneous and free-flowing, with a focus on creativity and intuition rather than strict adherence to established techniques or rules. This improvisational quality can often bring a sense of unpredictability and raw energy to his playing, allowing for dynamic and fluid bass lines that complement the music in an organic and instinctive manner.

Furthermore, Cameron's observation that Shepherd "is a guitarist who switched to bass" offers valuable insight into Shepherd's musical background and its impact on his bass playing. This background likely influences his approach to the instrument, potentially leading to a more unconventional and exploratory style that draws on elements of guitar playing while adapting them to the role of the bass within the band's sonic landscape.

On the other hand, Cameron's description of Jeff Ament's bass playing as having "a more traditional approach" indicates a different musical philosophy. Ament's style may be characterized by a strong foundation in established bass techniques and a commitment to the fundamental role of the bass within the band's overall sound. This traditional approach often involves a focus on precision, solid rhythm, and a deep understanding of how the bass interacts with the other instruments to create a cohesive and powerful musical foundation.

Cameron's assertion that Ament "has a great sense of what his band sounds like" highlights Ament's keen awareness of the band's musical identity and his ability to tailor his bass lines to complement and enhance the overall sound. This attunement to the band's sonic aesthetic suggests a thoughtful and deliberate approach to crafting bass parts that serve the music in a strategic and purposeful manner.

The statement "we lock up nicely" reflects the importance of the bass and drums working in tight coordination within a band's rhythm section. This synergy between the bass and drums is essential for establishing a solid groove and driving the band's music forward with cohesion and power. Cameron's acknowledgment of this musical connection underscores the significance of Ament's and Shepherd's abilities to work in tandem with the rhythm section, ultimately contributing to the bands' overall sound and impact.

In conclusion, Matt Cameron's insightful comparison of Ben Shepherd and Jeff Ament provides valuable perspectives on the diverse approaches to bass playing within the rock music landscape. Shepherd's improvisational and guitar-influenced style contrasts with Ament's traditional and band-focused approach, highlighting the range of creativity and musical expression found within the realm of bass playing. Both musicians bring unique qualities to their respective bands, enriching the music with their distinct perspectives and contributions to the art of rock bass playing.