“In his book ‘How to Master the Electric Bass’ Howard Head is introducing a very wide range of basic concepts for the beginning bass student, regardless of musical style. In the introduction of this book he says it all: ‘this book will not tell you what to play, but instead, give you all the tools and knowledge to help you nurture your own sound and playing style’. And that is exactly what Howard does. 

All the important things that you need to know when you start your bass career are discussed. Topics as varied as setting up your bass, gear advice and even records and music film recommendations are covered in the first part of the book. In the second part Howard explains how to play the instrument, treating the basics of techniques such as finger style, pick playing and slap bass and also how to read music (in tabs and standard notation). Every exercise is provided with a thorough explanation, which makes it easy for the student to understand.

A large part of the book is devoted to learning how to master the fretboard. It is explained for four, five and six string bass. Howard does this on the basis of scales, making use of fretboard diagrams. 

The last part of the book treats the theoretical side of music. Understanding rhythms, scales and harmony, the circle of fifths, intervals, chord function and modes.

Along with this extended book Howard also provides audio recordings and backing tracks of every exercise. How to master the electric bass is very thorough study for every serious bass students. I recommend this book to everyone picking up the bass, no matter what musical genre you want to play.”

Barend Tromp (bassist, bass teacher, reviewer and author of Next Level Slap Bass, a book which I highly recommend!)