I play the bass guitar, and have been for over 6 years now. In my opinion its the big mean instrument in a general band. The coal truck on the road alongside the sports car (guitar) and the school bus (drums). I love playing bass. I've tried to play other instruments but none are as fun to play as the bass to me. Also, I hate it when bands try to play without bass. If its an acoustic song, fine..(makes sad face), but if its a garage band without a bassist that isn't trying to look for one because they think they sound fine, they don't sound fine, and I can guarantee that without even hearing them. You gotta have that low end to music or it seems like its floating around without purpose.