I fly to Australia in five days to join up with the Allen Stone crew, and it’s time to get my hands back in hipster funk shape.

I’ve played these songs hundreds of times, so it’s not really a question of re-learning anything, but after a long break, my feel for the music starts to waver. Here’s what I’ve been working on:

Pick a chill metronome setting and an easy tune (I was playing through “Love” earlier). With no backing track, just you and that damnable click, start outlining the chords as you improvise. No pentatonic scale wankery, you should be able to hear clearly each individual chord change. Think rhythmically, and take your time building a vibe.

Simple concept, but deceptively tricky. If you can carry a tune just you and a click, consider yourself leveled up.