How to Use the Locrian Scale for Dissonant Bass Lines on 6-string Bass

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The Locrian scale is a unique and intriguing musical mode that offers a dissonant and unstable sound, making it perfect for creating tense and dissonant bass lines on a 6-string bass guitar. Its distinctive intervals can add a dark, mysterious flavor to your compositions, especially when used in jazz, metal, or experimental music genres.

Understanding the Locrian Scale

The Locrian scale is the seventh mode of the major scale. For example, if you start on B and follow the notes of the C major scale (C, D, E, F, G, A, B), you get the B Locrian scale: B, C, D, E, F, G, A. It is characterized by a diminished fifth (also called a tritone) between its root and fifth, which creates its dissonant sound.

How to Play the Locrian Scale on a 6-String Bass

To incorporate the Locrian scale into your bass lines, start by learning its pattern across the fretboard. Here’s a common fingering pattern for the B Locrian scale:

  • Root (B) on the 2nd fret of the A string
  • Move through the notes: C, D, E, F, G, A, returning to B
  • Use the following frets on each string to cover the scale:

On the E string: 2nd fret (F), 3rd fret (F#), 5th fret (G), 7th fret (A), 8th fret (A#), 10th fret (C), 12th fret (D)

Creating Dissonant Bass Lines

Use the Locrian scale to craft bass lines that emphasize dissonance by focusing on the diminished fifth interval between the root and the fifth. Incorporate chromatic passing tones and slide between notes to enhance the tension.

Here are some tips:

  • Emphasize the flat second and diminished fifth intervals for dissonance.
  • Use slides and vibrato to add expressiveness to dissonant notes.
  • Combine the scale with chromatic approaches to create tension and release.

Practical Applications

The Locrian scale works well over diminished and half-diminished chords. Experiment with bass lines that highlight the scale’s intervals to create a sense of instability and tension, perfect for genres seeking a dark or unsettling atmosphere.

Try improvising over a minor 7b5 chord or a diminished progression using the Locrian scale to achieve dissonant, compelling bass lines that stand out.