Why Our Bassist Paul Swears by Short Scale Basses
A BASS THAT CHANGED THE GAME
If you’ve seen Riot Act live, you might’ve noticed something different about our bassist Paul — specifically, the size of his instrument. His bass is slightly smaller than usual, and there’s a good reason for it. It’s a short scale bass, and it’s completely changed how he performs on stage.
We sat down with Paul to find out why he made the switch — and why he’s never looked back.
"My Shoulder Was Absolutely Destroyed"
“After decades of playing long scale basses averaging 4.5kg, my shoulder was absolutely destroyed,” Paul explains.
“I’d be halfway through a gig and all I could think of was, how am I going to make it to the end? It was draining.”
Then came a turning point.
“One day, I found a short scale bass at a music store. It was smaller, lighter, and honestly — so much more fun to play. I haven’t looked back.”
What Is a Short Scale Bass?
The term refers to the scale length — the distance between the nut and the bridge.
Short scale basses typically have a 30-inch scale
Standard (long) scale basses have a 34-inch scale
Short scale basses are:
Lighter to hold
Easier to play, especially for smaller hands
More ergonomic, with closer frets
Known for their warm, punchy tone with a strong low-end "fundamental"
These are just a few of the short scale bass benefits Paul has come to rely on.
Famous Short Scale Bass Players
Paul’s not alone in his love of shorties. Some of rock’s most iconic bassists have made their mark using short scale instruments:
Sir Paul McCartney (The Beatles, Wings)
Tim Commerford (Rage Against the Machine)
Jack Bruce (Cream)
Bill Wyman (The Rolling Stones)
Glenn Cornick (Jethro Tull)
Tina Weymouth (Talking Heads)
Garry Tallent (E Street Band)
Gary "Mani" Mounfield (Stone Roses, Primal Scream)
Mike Watt (The Stooges)
Clearly, when it comes to tone, comfort, and vibe, short scale basses are a serious contender.
Will Paul Ever Go Back to Long Scale?
“I still enjoy playing my long scale basses in my own time,” Paul admits, “but in a band environment, I’m a short scale man through and through.”
“It’s night and day. I can get through a full gig with ease — and they’re just so much fun to play!”
See Paul and Riot Act Live
Want to see what a short scale bass sounds like live? Catch Paul in action with Riot Act — Australia’s ultimate Pearl Jam tribute band.
Check out our upcoming gigs and book tickets now.
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