2020 Reader Favorite Bassists – #6: Thundercat
Editor’s Note: At the end of each year, we tally up all the article and video views on No Treble to come up with a list of the top 10 most popular bassists. This is entirely based on readership, not on opinions, polls, or anything else. Just having some fun.
I closed out 2020 with a heavy dose of Thundercat’s music while waiting for the ball to drop. As a result, I had bass face for most of the night.
Thundercat released his fourth album this year, It Is What It Is, had his Ibanez TCB1006 bass featured as Bass of the Week, and entertained us with videos that show off not only his incredible musicianship but also his humor.
Thundercat Breaks Down His Favorite Bass Lines
I love it when bassists share their inspiration – the players and lines that stick out to them over their lives. Pitchfork posted this incredible video with Thundercat, who breaks down some of his favorite lines and players (and more).
Bass of the Week: Ibanez TCB1006 Thundercat Signature Bass
Thundercat’s bass is as unique as his playing, so this week we’re taking a look at his signature model from Ibanez. The massive six-string hollow body is made in the company’s Japanese custom shop with curly maple for the back and sides and quilted maple for its top.
Thundercat: Black Qualls (Live)
Thundercat is set to release his latest album, “It Is What It Is,” next month and is currently on the biggest headlining tour of his career. Last week, he performed “Black Qualls” on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Best of Office Hours: Thundercat Plays “Guess the Bassline”
Best of Office Hours recently had Thundercat on as a guest for a “Guess the Bassline” segment. We won’t share any spoilers here, other than to say this is pretty hilarious.
Thundercat: “Heartbreaks + Setbacks” Live on KCRW
Stephen “Thundercat” Bruner recently announced a new album, which sent me into a spiral of watching his YouTube videos. Here’s a clip from five years ago when he visited KCRW with his trio to perform “Heartbreaks + Setbacks.”
Thundercat’s “It Is What It Is” Now Available
Bass phenom Thundercat has returned with his fourth studio album, entitled “It Is What It Is.” The release is a reflection on existence filled out by his unreal bass playing and sense of humor.
Thundercat: Them Changes (with Ariana Grande, DOMi & JD Beck)
Thundercat took part of the Adult Swim Festival last month. During his set, he was joined by Ariana Grande for a performance of the bassist’s tune, “Them Changes.”
