Todd Bell, the bassist for Hey Mercedes, Braid, and other influential bands, is known for his masterful low-end grooves and melodic approach to bass playing. This article delves into Bell’s musical journey, influences, and techniques, offering insights for aspiring bassists and fans of Hey Mercedes alike. This interview originally appeared on No Echo.
Bell’s unique style blends seamlessly with the music of Hey Mercedes, creating a dynamic and engaging sound. He doesn’t just play the root notes; he crafts melodies and hooks within the compositions, contributing significantly to the band’s overall musical texture. This approach has resonated with fans and fellow musicians, solidifying his reputation as a highly skilled and innovative bassist.
From Skate Rat to Master Bassist
Bell’s musical journey began in his early twenties, driven by a passion for music and a desire to play with friends. He describes his early days as a “skate rat who loved music,” practicing in a barn on a mini-ramp. This unconventional start highlights his dedication and the organic nature of his musical development. His journey from picking up a bass for the first time to touring with renowned bands demonstrates the power of passion and perseverance. He even dropped out of college to tour and “see the world on the band’s dime”. His father, a mechanic, would often help the band diagnose their van troubles over the phone.
A Lefty’s Love for the Low End
A self-proclaimed “lefty through and through,” Bell’s commitment to his left-handed playing style is evident. He started with a modified right-handed bass, eventually upgrading to a lefty 1978 Fender P-bass after completing his Master’s Degree in Education. This dedication to his instrument speaks volumes about his commitment to his craft. He discusses the challenges of learning on a right-handed bass flipped over and the joy of finally owning a proper left-handed instrument.
Pick or Fingers? The Versatility of Todd Bell
Bell’s versatility extends to his playing technique. While he primarily uses a pick for faster tempos, he often switches to fingers for slower, quieter songs to achieve a different tone. He enjoys mixing up his techniques, adding another layer of depth to his playing. He cites dropping picks on stage as a reason why he learned to play with his fingers. He discusses the influence of bassists like Lou Barlow of Dinosaur Jr. on his chordal style and the impact of Mike Watt, Andy Rourke, and others on his overall approach.
Locking in with the Rhythm Section
Bell emphasizes the importance of locking in with the drummer and other band members. He focuses on the kick drum as his primary rhythmic anchor but also listens intently to the guitars and vocals, adapting his playing to fit the needs of each song. He shares insights into the challenges of playing certain songs live, particularly complex tracks that required precise execution to avoid sounding like “a big old mess.”
Beyond Hey Mercedes: A Life in Music
Beyond his work with Hey Mercedes and Braid, Bell remains active in the music scene, collaborating with friends on various projects and even revisiting Dungeons & Dragons for social connection during challenging times. He also emphasizes the importance of daily running for maintaining mental and physical well-being. He offers advice to aspiring bassists, emphasizing the importance of playing with others and finding enjoyment in the collaborative process. He encourages new bassists to “do what you want, any style, and play with a group of people as quickly and as often as you can.”
