U2Man said:
i have a question: is adam the most simplistic bass player in rock music ever?
Ever? Nah, but probably the most famous him or Van Halen's Michael Anthony.
Music is subjective though. That's what's great about any art form. 2+2=4. Same can't be said of music or art.
Does a guitar line written in 32nds, with changing time signatures, = great song? Maybe, maybe not.
However, many of the comments I've read about Adam, is that a flashy technical bassist wouldn't work with U2. "His lines fit the songs." "perfect for U2."
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3311
Now maybe that's a slight on the band but I know they're not known for being virtuosos.
If Edge stops playing, you still hear the song, listen to "Vertigo" with headphones in just one ear. Adam and Larry do exactly what a rhythm section should do, lay down a firm foundation. They're 'the canvas' as Edge puts it, and Bono and Edge work on top. Outline the song. In fact, earlier today, my little sister was watching the Chicago DVD with me, and she was humming the bass line for most of "Vertigo." Also hummed part of the bass line to "Miracle Drug."
What I've been told from Adam's bass teacher himself "most people don't realize how good he is, but I'm telling you that his skill is "deep" in the music rather than flashy on top." Adam can without a doubt play more complicated basslines. It's a question of choice, what works for the song. Larry has been reported to have back problems and tendonitis.
Maybe he'd like to play like he did on War, but since U2 continues to be a touring band, he's gotta keep himself together. Many think U2 can keep going if Adam or Larry left but I feel it won't be "U2."
I think mostly just fans or other musicians really notice or pay attention to what the drummer and bassist are playing in music. IMHO.