by Martin Simpson

Bradley plays bass for one of the St.Paul’s Church (Mulbarton) worship teams. At an early stage in his young life, Judy Foxcroft took him under her wing and put him on the right track as far as bassin’ in concerned. I spoke to Brad just a few days before we were to play our bi-annual recital evening at the Church. This is what he told me

How long have you been playing Brad?
About 5 years I think…. Or something like that

How did you get started?

Well all my family(Mom, Dad, sister, Gran, grandpa, etc) All played some form of musical instrument. I felt left out. (Well more jealous I think). I wanted to play something cool, unique and different and the Church needed a bassist. So the great Judy Foxcroft gave me a few lessons and I Was hooked!!!!!!  Now I think everyone is jealous of me!!!! (or so I hope)

At the up-coming recital evening at St.Paul’s, you’ll be playing drums while Judy plays bass. How long have you been playing drums and are there any other instruments you play?

I‘ve been playing drums for 3 years. It’s one of the things that no-one else in my family plays….

And I can’t wait for the Recital!!!  I love to jam even though the worship team complains that I play too loud!!!! I also play guitar. I’ve been playing for about a year. I love playing guitar and write most my songs from it.

What’s your favourite band / solo artist?

Victor Wooten!!! And Concord!!!!!!. First time I saw them play I was dumbstruck!! I thought “I’m never gonna play like that” (and still do). But I was determined to try and get better. But then when I picked up my bass I felt too ashamed (embarrassed) to play after watching them. So I put it down and just admired it’s beauty

My fav bands Are RELIANT K n SWITCHFOOT. (all the way)

What are the amps and instruments you currently use?

I use the Legendary Roland cube!!! Beautiful 100w baby…. Mmmmm I jus sigh every time I turn her up…<*sigh*> what a sound. Mmmmmmmm. My bass is a beast… Amazing… For me that is -  EPIPHONE EMBASSY (5 String) Wow… It my 2nd bass and I love it……. And admire it all the time….

What instruments would you like to have if money were no object?

I don’t know much about instruments but if I had that money I think I would buy a car!!! Or a house… or a recording studio…
 
Do you think you’ll try fretless bass guitar or double bass in the future?
I would love to try it out!! I have only just used my five-string so it’s only a matter of time before I give it a try. But the sound of a fretless is scary… I battle to find the notes already…

What have you been doing for the last five years or so?

Uhm to be honest I don’t know where the time has gone. Other than school taking up a whole lot of my time, I have been…… Um I been doin….. well…. nothing. When  I’m not at school, I’m forced to think about it (homework, tests, sports) and when I’m not thinking about it, I’m just lucky…. In my so little free time I Play bass ‘n write songs!!!!!

What are you planning to do when you leave school?

I’m hoping to study Medicine or engineering. But right now I’m keeping my options open and waiting to see What God’s  plan is for me.

What recordings that you’ve played on would you recommend for listening?
Uhm…. NONE. I’m not so good. Besides that I never recorded

What’s been the low point in your career so far?

Watching the pros Jam!!!

And what has been the high point?
Watching the pros jam!!!!

Have you visited the Bass website  www.bassplayers.co.za  yet?

 Yes I have.. are u asking me for my opinion?  Cos if you are- the site is awesome!!!!! Keep it up

What are your goals currently?
Finish school, Start a band, Record, HAVE A PARTY!!!!!