Red Max! Some of us DO listen to all of it. If it's not interesting, NO, I won't listen either, but the bass player is the one who has to know the tune to ENHANCE the tune. Same as the bodhran or banjo or mandolin players. They should not overpower the singer, or lead instrument, but enhance. I've seen good and bad players of instruments. Pretty well all of the good and great players, are barely discernable to many people, but if they aren't there, you would soon know it.

My vote is also for the human voice. It is easy to join in, and with a tiny bit of practice you can actually sound good. With lots of practice you can be magnificent!

BESIDES, it's the CHEAPEST instrument, unless you're a mute!