I am often asked by students, "How do I better hook up with the drummer?"

While there are numerous answers, on many different levels, a very simple beginning is to get physically close. REAL CLOSE! I see many student bands set up with the bass player too far away from the drums. Close proximity will allow you to feel the drums being played. This has always helped me.

If you are using an amp, place it so it is behind you and the drummer. Joe Hunt always likes it when I position my unamplified string bass REALLY close to him so he can feel the groove.