This Week in Bass: Bootsy Collins on Funk, Fresh Bass Gear, and Performances You Need to See This Week

It’s here! Your weekly recap of news from the low end.

Over the past seven days, we’ve experienced a significant surge in gear news. Our number one story was our Bass of the Week: the Mako Prime V2 “GoldBot” by Alpher Instruments. Its exquisite gold and ebony features are matched with an equally intriguing pickup and control configuration. Peavey launched a new version of their Cirrus bass, Line 6 expanded the Helix line with the Stadium models, Audiofab announced the Frequency Distiller, and Luna Guitars introduced a 24-inch scale acoustic/electric called the Moonbird.

Head Funkateer Bootsy Collins shared wisdom from his career, spanning thoughts on his days with George Clinton to bass-driven songwriting. Set aside some time for this incredible interview. The Carol Kaye controversy continues as Wrecking Crew filmmaker Denny Tedesco gave a statement to respectfully rebut the famed bassist’s argument.

If you’re looking for some grooves, we’ve got you covered with fiery performances by Ellen Alaverdyan, Doug Wimbish, and Hadrien Feraud.

Read on and keep grooving!

1. Alpher’s “GoldBot” Bass Combines Striking Looks with a Bold Pickup System

This Bass of the Week stands out with a bold control system. Alpher’s “GoldBot” uses gold buttons to toggle each of its three pickups on or off.

2. Bootsy Collins Talks George Clinton, Funk Legacy, and Bass-Driven Songwriting

Bootsy Collins reflects on his legacy, working with George Clinton, and the deep groove that made him one of funk’s most iconic bassists.

3. New from Line 6: Helix Stadium Series Packs Pro-Grade Control into Touchscreen Floor Units

Line 6 introduces the Helix Stadium series, expanding its flagship line with new amp and effects processors for stage and studio use.

4. Peavey Cirrus Bass Returns for 2025 with VFL Electronics and Exotic Wood Tops

Peavey's flagship Cirrus Bass is back for 2025, featuring upgraded VFL electronics, exotic wood tops, and a neck-through design.

5. Funk Meets Fire: Ellen Alaverdyan and Dino Jelusick Team Up for “Wrong Side of the Law”

Ellen Alaverdyan stars in The Big Ol’ Nasty Getdown’s latest video for “Wrong Side of the Law,” with Dino Jelusick and Kenny Aronof

6. Audiofab’s Frequency Distiller Delivers Alembic-Style Filters for Bassists

Inspired by the Alembic SF-2, Audiofab’s Frequency Distiller gives bassists dual filters, clean blend control, and a wide frequency range.

7. Denny Tedesco Responds to Carol Kaye’s Rock Hall Rejection and “Wrecking Crew” Critique

Denny Tedesco shares his side of the story following Carol Kaye’s Rock Hall rejection and criticism of The Wrecking Crew documentary.

8. Living Colour’s Tiny Desk Set Features Wimbish’s Spector-Fueled Low End

At Tiny Desk, Doug Wimbish proves why he's a bass icon, blending tone, technique, and looping mastery in a standout performance.

9. New from Luna: Moonbird Acoustic/Electric Bass with 24-Inch Scale and Lunar Inlays

Luna unveils the Moonbird Acoustic/Electric Bass, featuring a 24-inch scale, lunar inlays, and a rechargeable preamp for tone shaping on the go.

10. Hadrien Feraud Pushes the Boundaries with Whoevazntawn and His Signature Mayones

Hadrien Feraud’s tone and technique shine as he anchors Whoevazntawn with his go-to Mayones and Ken Smith basses.