Despite how much I love music and how many gigs and festivals I attend, I am completely inept when it comes to musical talent. I know diddly squat.

My younger brother, on the other hand, is the frontman in a punk band, regularly plays at festivals, and has a European tour on the horizon. We have similar musical tastes but couldn't be further apart when it comes to ability (I'm better at video games than him though, so take that).

He has told me if I can learn the absolute basics of bass, I can play with them on one of their tour shows. He may have had a few too many when he promised me this, but we shook on it, so I'm now determined to take him up on the offer.

The problem is I don't know where to begin. What are the bare minimum essentials I need to start practicing bass at home? What is the cheapest (but still not absolutely terrible) bass I can get? Do I need an amp to practice? Are there any online tutorials (free or paid) you'd recommend?

So far, I have watched this video and convinced myself I'm capable, but my hopes and dreams may be dashed very quickly when I actually get myself a bass... any tips and/or tricks are appreciated!