Dennis, that is EXACTLY the approach to take. That way, the keyboard and bass player get "in synch" to the extent that they learn each others preferences/style. For instance, where each would prefer to use a passing chord/note, or where a slight alteration in timing would make for a more dramatic "build" to a chorus, etc.

It's like having a drummer that is strictly a time-keeper. You work around that and build a custom style together.

I worked a bass guitar duo with a drum machine, and an organ/guitar duo with drum machine for years.

Your approach is what worked, in both cases.


Russ