We all know a bass joke or 10, but in reality, bass players are important in a band's sound -- not to mention we've had to fill in on bass more than once.

That's why we dug deep into the low end in September to bring you what every guitarist should know about bass: from tips on how to play bass without sounding like, well, a guitarist, to reviews of bass products. There's plenty of guitar content to keep you occupied if you're unable to shake the superiority complex, too.

In this issue:

Escape from the Doghouse: Fender's Bass Revolution
The story of the evolution of the electric bass from the cumbersome upright

PG at Summer NAMM '09
We pick our faves from the show

PG at Montreal Guitar Show
Check out some of the world's most beautiful guitars you've never heard of before

Alejandro Escovedo
An Austin guitarist who can do it all, Alejandro is becoming Austin's treasured son

Bob Wootton
Former Johnny Cash guitarist is keeping the flame alive

5 Pre-CBS-Inspired Bass Builders You Should Meet
These guys each pay tribute to vintage Ps and Js in their own way

Gear Reviews
Tone Freak Abunai 2 Pedal Review
Elrick Expat Series New Jazz Standard Platinum Series e-volution Single Cut 5 Bass Reviews
Line 6 LowDown LD400 Pro Bass Amp Review
Charvel So-Cal 1 2H Guitar Review
Spector Euro5LX EX & NS-5H2 FM Bass Reviews
Anderberg Custom Guitars Wille Guitar Review
Peavey Studio Special 1.5 Amp Review
Komet 19 Amp Head Review