Abby Travis: The Groove Master of Bassists

Abby Travis: The Groove Master of Bassists

Abby Travis, known as the "pinch-hitter of bassists," has an impressive resume of filling in for various bands like Beck, Elastica, The Bangles, and The Go-Go’s. She also pursues her solo career under the name Sumo Princess. Travis emphasizes the importance of groove in music, stating that the bass is what drives the rhythm and makes people move to the music. She values feel and groove over technicality, believing that it is essential to connect with the audience emotionally.

Travis's journey into bass playing began when she was asked to join a band called The Lovedolls at the age of 15. She learned to play bass from the guitarist and quickly developed a passion for the instrument. After attending The Dick Grove School of Music, she started auditioning for gigs and was recommended by other musicians, leading to various opportunities in the music industry.

Throughout her career, Travis has used different bass rigs, including a Gallien-Krueger 800RB bass and an Ampeg SVT2. She had a memorable experience auditioning for Spinal Tap as a drummer, which led to her performing with the band in a fairy costume. Travis also shared her experiences playing with Elastica and The Bangles, showcasing her versatility as a bassist.

Travis continues to work on her solo music, with recent releases like the split album Europa/Asteroid Transformation. Despite facing challenges in the music industry, she remains dedicated to her craft and looks forward to future projects, including tracks on a Spinal Tap tribute album. Abby Travis's passion for music and her unique approach to bass playing have solidified her reputation as a versatile and talented musician.