The Eclectic Banjo - Posted - 02/24/2026:  10:53:01

Of course I'm specifically interested in whether I can listen to strum machine's backup for this or that bluegrass standard--without looking at the screen--to practice my ability to hear chord changes for backup and solo synthesis. I know it's not going to be like the real thing but there is a Bass, Guitar, and Mandolin chop for any given song. Would the bass player at a jam likely be doing a similar rhythm and pitches for the I IV V chords?

jdeluke137 - Posted - 02/24/2026:  11:02:06

It’s really very good. Some people will add measures when singing at at a jam, depending on the song, kind of like what Jimmy Martin did. But for working out or on a break it’s great. And for what you’re doing it should work well.

BobbyE - Posted - 02/24/2026:  11:04:17

While this doesn't answer your question it will help you accomplish your goals I would think. Since you specifically mentioned, 'bluegrass standards,' and want to work on chord changes, go to YouTube and search for and make a folder of some of your favorite standards. YT also has a feature that lets you slow down the song tempo without changing the key. You can practice any of the songs in your folder as much and as long as you want. And, tah dah, that would be like the real thing. Good luck in any event.

Bobby

jdeluke137 - Posted - 02/24/2026:  11:06:59

I just listened to a strum machine song. What you won’t grt is the walk up by the bass or guitar from say a G to a C. So you may not get exactly what you’ll get in a jam setting, but it should still help.

banjoy - Posted - 02/24/2026:  11:20:53

I've found Strum Machine to be pretty accurate overall.

Also, you should be aware that YouTube is full of free bluegrass backing tracks, many played by real instruments. Just go to YouTube and search for "bluegrass backing tracks."

LouZee Picker - Posted - 02/24/2026:  13:46:41

Strum Machine is the most versatile app I've found, along with tons of backing tracks it gives you the ability to make your own backing tracks to any original song or instrumental you compose. Set each song to whatever speed you like, set how many times you want to play the track, and set auto speedup each time you play through a track for building speed for learning to pick faster.



It also has different BAND settings for Bluegrass, old time, country, Celtic, Jazz & Swing & some other styles for playing the correct style of rhythm for the style your wanting to play. updates and new features are added all the time.



The App has too many features to post, I been a subscriber for around 3 years, it's the best 5 bucks a month that I don't even miss, They also offer a 7 day free trial offer just to check out the app to see how you like it.



I play Banjo & dobro, the app has been a game changer for me, it has made pickin at home by myself so much more enjoyable having a full band backing you up all the time.

I have 0 affilliation at all with Strum Machine, just a very satisfied customer.

The Eclectic Banjo - Posted - 02/24/2026:  16:41:24

quote:

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Originally posted by LouZee Picker

The App has too many features to post, I been a subscriber for around 3 years, it's the best 5 bucks a month that I don't even miss, They also offer a 7 day free trial offer just to check out the app to see how you like it.

I have 0 affilliation at all with Strum Machine, just a very satisfied customer.

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Agreed on the value you get from it. Although I'd like to step away from using it during jams eventually, pulling up chord progressions helps me feel like I can "stay in the game" to obscure (to me) bluegrass call outs here and there. 

Also if you contact them directly, they have a discounted direct pay method that's $50 annually (2 months free compared to monthly payment). They offer that as an alternative to paying the App Store their cut. 

gcpicken - Posted - 02/25/2026:  10:07:50

quote:

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Originally posted by banjoy

I've found Strum Machine to be pretty accurate overall.



Also, you should be aware that YouTube is full of free bluegrass backing tracks, many played by real instruments. Just go to YouTube and search for "bluegrass backing tracks."

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Also, there is an App for MAC called DOWNIE that lets you download Youtube videos. That way you can avoid the ads.