by Matt Perkins

Created on: March 27, 2009   Last Updated: March 29, 2009

I had just about reached my thirteenth year when I decided to play the bass. At the time, everyone seemed to be more interested in the guitar, and I wanted something more behind-the-curtain and less in the spotlight.

So when I think about who's inspired me over the last 12 plus years, at least musically, the notion of who the best bass players in my eyes is almost a no-brainer. From my own listening and viewing experience, the following is a general list that skims who I deem to be some of the most gifted pluckers of all time.

Les Claypool . . . In the world of innovative bass playing, Claypool surpasses anything that could be considered human. I wouldn't go so far as to say the guy is divine, but he's more than just flesh, muscle and bone. From his work with Primus on 1990's "Frizzle Fry," to his latest disc, "Of Fungi and Woe," he has always defied the laws of tradition (pun intended), and he truly belongs at the top of my list. Every note he plays is distinctive, and right away the ears will tell you it's the handiwork of Les you're hearing: the slap technique, the flamenco-style strumming, and not to mention his one-of-a-kind whammy bar that's custom fitted to that carnival ride he calls a Carl Thompson four-string.

Berry Oakley of the Allman Brothers Band . . . If you're a blues fan, and a fan of the jam, you're no stranger to the Allman Brothers. If you are a stranger, pick up the double-disc "The Road Goes on Forever," which comprises their best recordings, both live and from the studio. In this ensemble of gems, you'll hear the rhythmic talents of Berry Oakley. I refer specifically to Mountain Jam (also off "Eat a Peach"). As one of the founding members, his talent and life were cut short by a tragic motor cycle accident (prophetically following Duane Allman, who perished under nearly the same circumstances - and almost in the exact same location - just more than a year earlier). Oakley is now succeeded by the truly gifted Oteil Burbridge (Aquarium Rescue Unit, Oteil and the Peacemakers), who in his own right deserves his own notch on this list.

Mike Gordon of Phish . . . Again, any jam-fan will, for the most part, be acquainted with the likes of Phish. Yes, the band has been likened to the Grateful Dead year in and year out since their birth in 1983. But while their touring and culture emulate that of the Dead, they have a sound all their own, and as a musical enthusiast, I think it's one of the best, if not the best, acts to come around in this generation.

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