[quote name='JBassist' post='526032' date='Jun 27 2009, 04:02 PM']Yeah i much prefer a good bassline than a bass solo/shred
unless its a well composed solo.
some bassists can go fast and still sound good though like john paul jones, flea, Jaco and Others[/quote]
when I was teaching I would encourage learning a bit of slap, pop, and tap. I think a bit of[i] flashy playing[/i] can aid development of technique, and be an introduction to new styles. Obviously application of technique is important, and should only be used where appropriate - such as to keep the gig moving if the guitarist breaks a srting/strap/lead etc, step forward the bassist and entertain
But mainly because it can be [b]fun[/b].