Reader Spotlights and Videos: 10 Favorites Among Bassists in 2024

Since day one, we’ve been committed to celebrating the incredible stories and music of No Treble readers. Sharing your journeys, talent, and creativity is not just a highlight of our work—it’s the heart and soul of what we do. It’s my favorite thing about No Treble.

This year, we featured countless inspiring videos and spotlight interviews, showcasing the diverse and vibrant voices of the bass community. Today, we’re thrilled to share the top 10 favorites from 2024, as chosen by you—the readers.

If you’d like to see your story or music featured here, we’d love to hear from you! For reader spotlights, share your story with us. For videos, send us a note with the link at [email protected].

1. David Pastorius: Red Sunrise

The versatility and scope of the bass are always greater than people imagine. David Pastorius sent us his video for “Red Sunrise,” which proves the point. He gets a wide range of tones by utilizing different techniques, ultimately building a tapestry of sound.

2. Huw Foster: 5 James Jamerson Bass Lines (and How to Play Them)

Our friend Huw Foster sent us the latest in his “5 Bass Lines” series, and this one focuses on the master, James Jamerson. Huw shares five Jamerson bass lines (and how to play them).

3. Milan Srdanovic: Niška Banja (9/8 Solo Bass Arrangement)

No Treble readers never fail to impress us. Here’s a video Milan Srdanovic shared with us of a masterful solo bass arrangement of “Niška Banja.”

4. Reader Spotlight: Lynda Kraar

Lynda Kraar started playing guitar at age 8 and picked up the bass at 14. The bass was definitely her calling. Lynda is this week's reader in the spotlight.

5. Brad Williamson: “Thoughts and Prayers” All-Bass Cover

I ran into Brad Williamson at this year's NAMM Show, and I'm glad I did. Here’s his fantastic all-bass arrangement of Animals as Leaders's "Thoughts and Prayers," which he performs on his FM 12 String Bass.

6. Dirty Logic: The Fez

Dirty Logic is an 11-piece Steely Dan tribute band based in Asheville that does The Dan justice. Here’s a great clip of them performing “The Fez.” Beside his slick lines, check out Jake Wolf’s tone!

7. Ralf Gauck: Yesterday

Ralf Gauck got to try out the new Marleaux Spock bass guitar and sent us this video to showcase it. Recorded with two room mics, here’s his solo bass take on The Beatles’ “Yesterday.”

8. Reader Spotlight: Randy Landau

Meet Randy Landau, a long-time bassist with a seriously impressive resume. Randy is this week’s No Treble reader in the spotlight. Here’s his story…

9. Tony Senatore: Won’t Let You Down

Our friend Tony Senatore sent us his latest video, covering “Won’t Let You Down” by BLT (Jack Bruce, Bill Lordan, Robin Trower). The group also includes Alan Lo Presti on slide guitar, Andy Rothstein on guitar, Tom Cottone on drums, and Joe Deninzon on violin.

10. Reader Spotlight: Craig Bannerman

Meet Craig Bannerman, a long-time bassist who made the switch from guitar many years ago. He has some super interesting gear!