PG Music's Band-In-A-BoxA tool I use frequently is Band-In-A-Box. It is a software package developed by PGMusic of Canada. It allows you to create simple or elaborate backing tracks in a variety of styles and formats. I stick pretty much to only a few basic styles and rhythms. J-Caribe for Bossa and SambaWhy I tend toward these 3 styles? Hmm ... maybe because they kind of remind me of what Wes Montgomery's rhythm section might sound like. Could be. They have a kind of groove I like. There are a few others I try every now and then, but when I'm in a hurry, it's usually one of these three. Just be aware, however, that BIAB offers much more than this. So much that you can get overwhelmed with the choices. There is a temptation to play a lot with the technology.I've just decided to narrow my focus to those basic accompaniment patterns using either Bass, Drums, & Piano or Bass, Drums, & Organ. Oh yeah! And sometimes Bass, Drums, & Vibes. PGMusic usually offers 2 upgrades a year around mid-summer and the end-of-year Christmas Special. A variety of pricing levels allows you to skip and upgrade or 2 and still manage to bring your installation up to the current vesion without re-purchasing the entire package. Here are some of the ways I use BIAB ( Band-In-A-Box ): Generate Chord Charts The above list represents only a limited selection of the BIAB Feature Set.
Just to be accurate, there are quite a few of other software programs out there for sequencing rhythm tracks for guitar, in particular, and other instruments as well. Some exhibit more polish and pizazz than BIAB. PG Music remains competitive by offering companion products PowerTracks and RealBand(combines BIAB & PowerTracks) that extend the BIAB feature set. Band-In-A-Box however remains a favorite tool for many Guitarists of Jazz as well as other styles. Jim Gannon, one of the creators of BIAB and himself a Jazz Guitarist has delivered very useful tool for aspiring Jazz-Guitar-Alchemists.
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