This Week in Bass: Notable Gear Releases, Tool’s Studio Plans & More

This week’s top 10 list has plenty to dig into, from exciting new gear to standout performances and deep-dive features. Kinga Glyk lays down a killer groove in a big band setting, Paul Thompson breaks down one of the ’70s best bass lines, and Jonathan Colman shares his unique approach to improvisation.

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1. Bass of the Week: A Game-Changing Neck? Meet Sam Houston’s Radius Bass

With an ultra-thin body and a carbon-molded neck, Sam Houston’s Radius Bass takes bass innovation to the next level. Here’s what makes it special.

2. Baum Guitars’ Thunder Bass Returns in a Special 10th Anniversary Edition

Baum Guitars marks its 10th anniversary with a special Thunder Bass reissue, now available in a limited Dark Moon finish with upgraded features.

3. Kinga Głyk’s Funky Groove Shines in a Stunning Live Big Band Performance

Kinga Glyk teams up with the Frankfurt Radio Big Band for a funky, must-watch live performance of "Let's Play Some Funky Groove."

4. Zorg Effects Expands the Love Philter MKII: Modular Envelope Madness for Bass

Zorg Effects has upgraded its Love Philter envelope filter for bass, adding modular CV control, expanded LFO options, and deeper sound-shaping.

5. How “Love Will Keep Us Together” Delivered One of the Best Bass Lines of the ’70s

Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield wrote it, Captain & Tennille made it a hit. But did you know "Love Will Keep Us Together" had one of the best bass lines of the '70s?

6. Must-Watch: 10 Incredible Bass Videos That Ruled January 2025

January’s top bass videos featured legendary performances, rising stars, and hidden gems. Check out the 10 most-watched clips that ruled the month.

7. Jonathan Colman’s Improvisation Manifesto: A Dungeon Master’s Guide for Musicians

Bassist Jonathan Colman shares his manifesto for group improvisation, blending structure and spontaneity to create bold, unpredictable musical experiences.

8. Meters Legend George Porter, Jr. Drops “Porter’s Pocket” – A Funky Return to His Roots

George Porter, Jr.'s "Porter's Pocket" channels the raw energy of his New Orleans live sets into a funk-filled album that honors his roots with The Meters.

9. Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals Return: New Bassist Steps In After Juan Nelson’s Passing

Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals are back for a 2025 tour - but who’s playing bass? Meet Darwin Johnson, stepping in after Juan Nelson’s passing.

10. Tool’s Next Chapter? Justin Chancellor Says They’re “Spending Three Months in the Studio”

Tool bassist Justin Chancellor shares an update: the band has set aside three months in the studio after their tour to refine new material.