Ive seen a lot on the forums and heard from people in real life that bass is not important. I want to address this right now and clarify what exactly the bass's role is in a band.
If im not mistaken, the bass is part of the rythem section in any musical group/piece. Now to define it even more, its the time keeper. If someone is off time, its the bassist job to allow room for whoever lost time to jump back in. Some would argue that the drummer is. I would disagree. The drummer sets the tempo, the timing is based on what others are playing. Bass guitar is to timing as Slut is to Paris Hilton.
Some fellow bassist might notice when they get a new pedal that their "Low End" bottems out, thus resulting in knob adjucting or refund of that preticular product. If others have not noticed the "Low End" you will if you dont have a bassist in the band. Its a tone and pitch that a guitar can not provide. Its like asking a women for a sperm sample. The "Low End" is exclusive to bass.
You know that thump you get in your chest at a concert or at any music event/gig? Thats the bass. Its what gets the girls to take there shirts off, dance around and just make an awesome atmophere. I dont think the guitar or any other instrument will be able to do that.
Bass Guitar is a nessesity to your band/musical group! You will be leaving a lot behind by not having it support your low end.