[quote= I'm guessing that knowing the song is helpful to playing along with the bass player. I also have to train my ear more so that I can know what barre chords will sound good on the 2-and-4 riddim.
Dm[/QUOTE]
yep,learning the basslines on yer guitar will train your ear,and will help you 'feel' where the riddim should fall.But the timing of the rythem has nothing to do with what chords to use.like any song or music,what key is it in? What is the singer trying to convey? there really are no 'reggae' chords,and you already know barre chords so your good to go.
but can you feel it? Like the blues,you cant really play it right until you can feel it.
QUOTE=''I wouldn't be able to improvise quickly with barre chords like I do with lead lick playing. ''
again, dont over play,improvise or solo too much.
thats what is so cool with reggae,those big holes in the riddim.
when it is time to solo it really soars above the band,and almost anything can work,blues/rock/country licks all welcome.
Al Anderson and Junior Murvin on guitars.
Ever hear the expression, ROOTS,ROCK REGGAE?
also,check out Ernest Ranglin for a sweet,jazzy vibe.
Respek!