The Bass Nerds

To celebrate the release of the new Rex Brown Signature Spector bass, Rex joins The Bass Nerds for a deep dive into its design, electronics, powerful low mids, and road ready tone. He also discusses recreating his Far Beyond Driven sound, touring stadiums with Metallica, playing with a pick, and why Spector still feels like home.

In this episode of Bass Nerds, we sit down with bassist Eva Gardner, known for her work with P!nk, The Mars Volta and more. Eva shares her journey from growing up in a musical family to touring the world on some of the biggest stages. We talk about her approach to bass tone, adapting to different artists, and what it takes to succeed as a professional touring musician. If you're a bass player looking to build a career, improve your tone, or understand the realities of touring, this conversation offers real-world insight from a top-level working musician.

Tommy McKenzie of The Flaming Lips sat down with us at Fret12 inside The Salt Shed in Chicago to talk about his path into the band, his early Oklahoma days, his favorite basses, and what life is like on the road with one of the most unpredictable live shows in the world. We get into his rig, his approach to learning the Lips catalog, and the chaos and creativity that come with touring nonstop.

Welcome Ollie, bassist of High Fade, as he takes us behind the scenes of life on tour across the US. Hear about the challenges of the road, the band’s unique busking approach to building a fanbase, and get insider tips on bass gear and tone. Ollie also reveals how they capture their live energy in the studio. Whether you’re a bass player or music fan, this episode is packed with valuable insights and stories to inspire your own musical journey. https://www.instagram.com/thatseventiesbassist/ https://www.instagram.com/highfademusic/ https://highfademusic.live/

Bakithi Kumalo’s bass playing helped define one of the most iconic albums of all time: Paul Simon’s Graceland. But his story goes far beyond those legendary fretless lines. In this episode of The Bass Nerds, Bakithi talks with Marc and Jody about his early days in South Africa, finding his voice on the bass, and what it was like recording with legends like Simon, Herbie Hancock, and Harry Belafonte. He also shares insight into his gear, his musical instincts, and how he continues to mentor the next generation of players while staying deeply rooted in joy and groove.

We're excited to welcome Kevin Scott to the Bass Nerds Podcast. Kevin is a dynamic and innovative bassist known for his work with Govt Mule, Warren Haynes band, Wayne Krantz, Col Bruce Hampton, Jimmy Herring, Forq, and many others. In this episode, we sit down to talk about his musical journey, the evolution of his tone and technique, and the mindset behind his unique style of playing. Kevin shares insights on his early influences, his approach to improvisation, and what it's like collaborating with some of the most respected names in the music industry. Whether you're a bassist or simply a fan of great music and conversation, this episode offers an inspiring look into the world of a modern bass artist.

On this episode of the Bass Nerds Podcast, we sit down with the legendary Horace Panter, bassist for the iconic ska band The Specials. Horace shares stories from his early days, the rise of 2 Tone, and how he crafted his unmistakable bass style that helped define a genre. We dive into his influences, gear, and the creative process behind some of the band's biggest tracks. Whether you're a fan of ska, bass guitar, or music history, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of The Bass Nerds Podcast, we dive into the world of Pops Magellan, the versatile bassist and producer shaking up the industry. From her early days playing in Brazil to touring with Adam Lambert, Willow, and Avril Lavigne, Pops has built a dynamic career blending rock, funk, and Brazilian influences. We’ll explore her journey, her role as a session and touring bassist, and her upcoming solo EP *DAMAGE*. Tune in for an in-depth look at what makes Pops Magellan a true force in the bass world!"

The legendary Donny Benet joins The Bass Nerds Podcast to talk all things groove, bass, and sophisticated funk! From his signature vintage synth-bass tones to his deep pocket grooves, Donny shares insights on his creative process, inspirations, and the art of crafting timeless music. We dive into his approach to bass, the balance between synth and electric, and what it takes to keep the groove alive. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a fellow low-end lover, this episode is packed with bass wisdom and retro vibes you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of the Bass Nerds Podcast, we’re thrilled to have Chester Hansen, the laid-back and super talented bassist from BADBADNOTGOOD, join us for a fun and insightful chat. Chester opens up about his journey from jazz to experimenting with hip-hop and electronic music, and how he crafts those signature, boundary-pushing basslines we all love. We dive into his creative process, the highs and lows of collaborating with artists like Tyler, the Creator and Frank Ocean, and what keeps him inspired in the ever-evolving music world. If you're a fan of funky bass grooves and honest, behind-the-scenes stories, this one's for you! Special thanks to @FRET12 for sharing their space with us.

Brian Cook of Russian Circles, Sumac and These Arms are Snakes stopped by the studio for an epic interview. Brian has toured the world and shared stories of the road, gear, growing up and much more. Thankful for Chicago Music Exchange for sharing their space. https://russiancircles.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sumacbandofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/thesearmsaresnakesofficial/

The Bass Nerds welcome Michael Byrnes of Mt Joy! Michael is currently carrying the low end with Mt Joy, they have been touring non stop. Michael has roots in Chicago where he attended Columbia College for music before heading out west to LA to elevate his music career. Mikey shares some incredible stories of the road, gigging, studying under Chuck Webb and much more. Special thanks to Chicago Music Exchange for sharing their space and letting us record. https://www.instagram.com/mtjoyband/ . Follow The Bass Nerds at: https://www.facebook.com/bassnerdspodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/bassnerdspodcast/ Subscribe to us on APPLE!!! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bass-nerds/id1439046056

We welcome Dezron Douglas! Dezron is currently holding down the low end with Trey Anastasio Band and the Dezron Douglas Quartet. Dezron shares some incredible stories of his early days at The Hartt College School, studying under Dr Jackie McLean and much more. Special thanks to Chicago Music Exchange for sharing their space and letting us record. https://www.instagram.com/dezthought . https://www.dezrondouglasmusic.com/ Follow The Bass Nerds at: https://www.facebook.com/bassnerdspodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/bassnerdspodcast/ Subscribe to us on APPLE!!! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bass-nerds/id1439046056

We welcome Zachary Cooper on this episode of the Bass Nerds. Zach hails from New York and shares his journey from local music store jobs to touring with one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Thank you to the Coheed family for giving us a little bit of their time. Special thanks to Chicago Music Exchange for sharing their space and letting us record. https://www.coheedandcambria.com/ https://www.instagram.com/zacharyacooper/ Follow The Bass Nerds at: https://www.facebook.com/bassnerdspodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/bassnerdspodcast/ Subscribe to us on APPLE!!! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bass-nerds/id1439046056

Nicole Row, bassist of Incubus sits down with the Bass Nerds to chat bass, dogs, yardwork and more! Nicole has played with some of the greatest artist of today and we are grateful to have a little bit of her time to be on the podcast. Incubus is on Tour right now in North America and Latin America. Get your TICKETS! https://www.incubushq.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nicolesrow/ Follow The Bass Nerds at: https://www.facebook.com/bassnerdspodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/bassnerdspodcast/ Subscribe to us on APPLE!!! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bass-nerds/id1439046056

Marc and Jody took a trip to NYC and they were super excited to sit down with ​⁠ at the ​⁠artist loft. Mike is the director of sales at Fodera and monster player. Maybe you have seen the Mike Bendy signature Fodera? Short scale headless 6 string? Mike is a New Yorker thru and thru. Great stories and fun time. Special thanks to Fodera for letting us use their space and tour their shop. https://www.instagram.com/mikebendy https://www.instagram.com/foderaguitars www.fodera.com Follow The Bass Nerds at: https://www.facebook.com/bassnerdspodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/bassnerdspodcast/ Subscribe to us on APPLE!!! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bass-nerds/id1439046056

In this episode, we sat down with our friends Eric Cocco (La Bella Strings), James Carbonetti (Carbonetti Guitars), and Mitch Friedman (NYC-based session bassist and overall top-tier bass guru) in the La Bella / Carbonetti showroom in Brooklyn. Special thanks to La Bella Strings and Carbonetti Guitars for hosting us in their amazing showroom (Guitar Shop NYC). https://www.labella.com/ https://theguitarshopnyc.com/ https://carbonettiguitars.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mitchthebassplayer Follow The Bass Nerds at: https://www.facebook.com/bassnerdspodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/bassnerdspodcast/ Subscribe to us on APPLE!!! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bass-nerds/id1439046056

In this episode we welcome Ben Carr, better known as Carrtoons You may be familiar with Carrtoons from his recent performance on Tiny Desk or touring with Nate Smith & Keifer. Carrtoons has released several albums with his latest release being "Saturday Night". We chat about gigging in NYC, music, influences and much much more in this episode of The Bass Nerds. Carrtoons is touring all over the US, check the link below for dates near you. Carrtoons is also very active on his instagram so go give him a follow. Check out Carrtoons HERE: https://www.carrtoonsmusic.com/ https://www.instagram.com/_carrtoons_/

In this episode we welcome Karina Rykman. Karina is a killer bass player who has been sharing the stage with some of the baddest bands on the planet and sits in with the Seth Meyers band from time to time. Karina recently released her debut album, Joyride. We chat gear, touring, favorite pizza in NYC and much much more in this episode of The Bass Nerds. Karina is touring all over the US, check the link below for dates near you. Check out Karina HERE: https://www.karinarykman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/karinarykman Follow The Bass Nerds at: https://www.facebook.com/bassnerdspodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/bassnerdspodcast/ Subscribe to us on APPLE!!! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bass-nerds/id1439046056

In this episode we welcome Ryan Stasik of Umphrey's McGee and Doom Flamingo. Ryan shares stories, thoughts on gear, and his views on shopping cart etiquette. We also discover that Jody is a douche for his poor shopping cart etiquette. Special thanks to Chicago Music Exchange for allowing us to use their studiio to shoot this episode. Umphrey's is on tour so be sure to check their website for dates near you.